The Private Tour Of Eleftherna & Rethymno Villages

Uncovering Crete’s rich history and culture, the Private Tour of Eleftherna and Rethymno Villages offers an immersive 6-hour experience. Travelers can explore significant sites like the 16th-century Arkadi Monastery and the ancient ruins of Eleftherna, while enjoying a traditional Cretan lunch in the charming Margarites Village. With hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, and included entrance fees, this tour provides a hassle-free way to explore Crete’s captivating heritage. But what secrets might these historic sites hold? And how might a local’s perspective shed light on the island’s enduring traditions?

Good To Know

• This private tour offers an exploration of the ancient sites of Eleftherna and the charming town of Rethymno in Crete, Greece, lasting 6 hours.
• The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, an English-speaking driver/escort, and entrance fees, with a traditional Cretan lunch as part of the experience.
• Highlights of the tour include the Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of Cretan resistance, and the archaeological site of Ancient Eleftherna, dating back to the Dark Ages.
• Visitors can explore the picturesque Margarites Village, known for its traditional pottery shops and Cretan architecture, and enjoy a cultural dining experience.
• The tour is suitable for most visitors, with recommendations for comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a private exploration of the charming villages of Eleftherna and Rethymno in Crete, Greece.

It lasts 6 hours and costs from $501 per person.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book their spot now and pay later.

The itinerary highlights an Eastern Orthodox monastery, an ancient archaeological site, a picturesque pottery village, and a traditional Cretan lunch.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver/escort, all entrance fees, and transportation by air-conditioned minivan.

Guests should wear comfortable shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing.

Pets aren’t allowed, except for assistance dogs.

Itinerary Highlights

Arkadi Monastery stands as a 16th-century Eastern Orthodox masterpiece, serving as a national sanctuary of Cretan resistance. Further along the itinerary, visitors will explore the ancient ruins of Eleftherna, a site showcasing history from the Dark Ages to Byzantine times. In the picturesque village of Margarites, travelers can wander the stone paths and browse the traditional pottery shops. The tour culminates with a traditional Cretan lunch at a unique restaurant housing a private folklore collection.

Itinerary Highlights	Description
Arkadi Monastery	16th-century Eastern Orthodox masterpiece, national sanctuary of Cretan resistance
Ancient Eleftherna	Archaeological site showcasing history from Dark Ages to Byzantine times
Margarites Village	Picturesque village known for stone paths and traditional pottery shops
Traditional Cretan Lunch	Experience local cuisine at a unique restaurant with a private folklore collection
Rethymno	Discover the charming town and its rich cultural heritage

Arkadi Monastery

Situated within the scenic landscape of Crete, Arkadi Monastery stands as a 16th-century Eastern Orthodox masterpiece. This national sanctuary of Cretan resistance holds immense historical significance, serving as a symbol of the Cretan people’s fight for independence.

Visitors can explore the monastery’s impressive architecture, including its ornate frescoes and intricate iconostasis. The monastery’s rich history is showcased through:

1. Its role in the 1866 Cretan Revolt against Ottoman rule.
2. The "Arkadi Holocaust," a tragic event where over 850 Cretans sought refuge and perished in an explosion.
3. The monastery’s collection of rare manuscripts and religious artifacts.
4. Its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its architectural and cultural value.

Ancient Eleftherna

Ancient Eleftherna lies approximately 25 kilometers southeast of Rethymno, showcasing a rich history that spans from the Dark Ages to Byzantine times. This archaeological site offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s past, with excavated ruins and artifacts that tell the story of its evolution. Visitors can explore the site and discover the remnants of ancient structures, including homes, workshops, and religious buildings. To enhance the experience, the site offers a range of features and facilities, as detailed in the table below.

Feature	Description
Ancient Ruins	Explore the excavated remains of ancient structures, including homes, workshops, and religious buildings.
Artifacts	Discover a collection of artifacts, such as pottery, tools, and other everyday items, that provide insights into the lives of the site’s former inhabitants.
Interpretive Displays	Learn about the site’s history and significance through informative displays and signage.
Guided Tours	Opt for a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the site’s archaeological significance and historical context.

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Margarites Village

Often, visitors to the Rethymno region make a stop at the picturesque Margarites Village, known for its charming stone paths and traditional pottery shops.

The town’s artisans are renowned for their handcrafted ceramics, earthenware, and other pottery pieces. Visitors can browse the shops, observing the potters at work and purchasing unique souvenirs.

The village also offers:

1. Scenic walking trails through the historic streets and alleyways.
2. Traditional Cretan architecture, with white-washed homes and buildings.
3. Opportunities to learn about the region’s pottery-making techniques and history.
4. Delightful local tavernas serving authentic Cretan cuisine.

Traditional Cretan Lunch

During the tour, you will have the opportunity to experience authentic Cretan cuisine at a unique restaurant that showcases a private folklore collection.

The traditional Cretan lunch includes a selection of local dishes, allowing visitors to savor the flavors and traditions of the region. From fresh salads and hearty main courses to homemade desserts, the meal celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Crete.

The restaurant’s private folklore collection adds to the immersive experience, giving participants a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage of the island.

This is a chance to indulge in the genuine tastes of Crete while surrounded by its artistic and historical treasures.

Inclusions

This tour includes a comprehensive package of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

The inclusions cover the essentials for a hassle-free exploration of Eleftherna and Rethymno. Specifically, the tour provides:

1. Hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a convenient start and end to the day.
2. An English-speaking local driver/escort to provide insights and guidance throughout the journey.
3. All entrance fees to the historical sites, including the Arkadi Monastery and Ancient Eleftherna.
4. A traditional Cretan lunch at a unique restaurant, allowing you to immerse in the local culinary culture.

Plus, all taxes, fees, and handling charges are included, and gratuities are optional.

Preparation for Tour

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, participants are recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing. Pets, except assistance dogs, are not permitted on the tour. The following table outlines the recommended and prohibited items:

Recommended Items	Allowed	Prohibited
Comfortable Shoes	Yes	No
Hat	Yes	No
Sunscreen	Yes	No
Weather-Appropriate Clothing	Yes	No
Assistance Dogs	Yes	No
Pets	No	Yes

Adhering to these guidelines will help ensure a pleasant and hassle-free tour experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Disabilities?

The tour appears suitable for people with disabilities, as it includes hotel pickup, air-conditioned transportation, and access to the sites. However, it’s advisable to check specific accessibility details with the tour provider before booking to ensure it meets individual needs.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour information doesn’t specify a maximum group size. However, it mentions the tour is private, so the group size is likely small and flexible to accommodate customer needs. The transportation is provided by an air-conditioned minivan, suggesting a small group size.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Special Dietary Meal?

Yes, special dietary requests like vegetarian meals can be accommodated for this tour. Travelers should inform the tour operator of any dietary needs when booking to ensure the appropriate meal is provided during the traditional Cretan lunch.

Is the Tour Available in Other Languages Besides English?

The tour is offered in English, but other language options may be available upon request. Customers should check with the tour provider about the availability of guides in different languages to accommodate their needs.

Can I Book the Tour for a Specific Date or Is It a Fixed Schedule?

The tour can be booked for a specific date based on availability. It’s not on a fixed schedule, allowing for flexible travel plans. Customers can check availability and select the desired start time when booking the tour.

The Sum Up

This private tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Crete’s rich history and culture. From the historic Arkadi Monastery to the ancient ruins of Eleftherna, and a traditional Cretan lunch in Margarites Village, the tour provides an immersive experience. With hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, and included entrance fees, it’s a hassle-free way to discover the highlights of the region.

You can check availability for your dates here: