Morning Mystique: Embracing the Crispness of Malia

As the sun rises over Malia on April 12th, the air is crisp and invigorating, with temperatures starting at a refreshing 46.7°F. This is the perfect time to embark on a journey through the enchanting Lasithi Valley. The Cretan Heritage Tour offers a deep dive into the heart of Crete, beginning at 9:00 AM. Led by a local guide, this tour is a sensory delight, starting with a visit to an olive oil factory where the secrets of Crete’s ‘liquid gold’ are unveiled. As you traverse the olive tree-dotted mountains, the vibrant flora and fauna come alive, painting a picture of Crete’s natural beauty.

The tour continues to the Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, a cultural gem nestled in the lush landscapes of Northern Diktis. Here, the serenity of the surroundings invites reflection and appreciation of Crete’s rich heritage. As you reach the Lasithi Plateau, the remnants of a pioneering wind farm stand as a testament to Crete’s innovative spirit. The journey culminates with a visit to the mythical Diktaean Cave, believed to be the birthplace of Zeus, offering a mystical experience that connects you to the island’s ancient myths.

“Thank you for an incredible experience! My husband and I did a culinary tour with Marinos Doukiantzakis while on our honeymoon in Crete. We were immersed in Cretan culture and cuisine. Marinos was the BEST tour guide. The experience provided trying fresh herbs off the side of the road, exploring an olive oil factory, meeting a shepherd and learning about the process of making cheese, picking and trying fresh vegetables from a local farmer and taking a cooking class on Cretan cuisine, not to forget the delicious Cretan feast we got to indulge in after. It was an incredible experience that we would highly recommend to visitors of Crete!” - Reviewed on 2024-10-27

Afternoon Adventures: Exploring Traditional Villages

As the day progresses and the skies become overcast, the temperature rises to a comfortable 62.5°F, making it an ideal time to explore the traditional villages of Crete. The Village Discovery Tour begins at 9:00 AM and offers a full-day experience that immerses you in the authentic side of Crete. This tour takes you through charming narrow streets, where you can savor an iced coffee or mountain tea while soaking in the local atmosphere.

The journey includes a visit to an olive oil factory, where you can learn about the production process and sample a variety of olive oils. As you travel in comfort with air-conditioned vehicles, the tour offers a taste of local honey, Raki, and wine, providing a deeper understanding of the area’s traditions, history, and culture. The picturesque village of Krasi, with its monumental Platanus tree, offers a perfect backdrop for photography enthusiasts.

“Personal and Amazing! Extremely personal experience! Leaving the crowds and experiencing small mountain villages was a once in a lifetime opportunity! Best tour I have ever been on.” - Reviewed on 2025-03-09

Evening Elegance: Savoring Cretan Cuisine

As the evening cools down to around 53.3°F, with partial cloudiness and a slight chance of rain, it’s the perfect time to indulge in Crete’s culinary delights. The Cretan Heritage Tour offers a delightful end to the day with a visit to a traditional taverna in Lasithi. Here, you can savor dishes made with the freshest local produce, enjoying the flavors of Crete in a cozy setting.

The tour concludes in the village of Krasi, where you can sip ‘raki’ by the natural springs, reflecting on the day’s adventures. As you mingle with the locals in the village cafes, the spirit of Crete comes alive, offering a memorable experience that lingers long after the journey ends. The evening is a time for reflection and appreciation of the rich cultural tapestry that Crete offers, making it a perfect conclusion to a day of exploration and discovery.

“A fantastic tour that we didn’t want to end. Very well planned and clearly created with love. Marinos spoke proudly of Cretan values, their emphasis on family and hospitality and he embodied this as he took us on an expedition of homeland. It felt like every bend in the road had a fact or tale and when there wasn’t information to provide we were laughing and joking around with him and the rest of our group. We were well fed and watered with local delicacies and really looked after in every place we visited. If you want to experience the highlights and get a sense of what Crete has to offer then go on this tour - you’ll also make friends along the way!” - Reviewed on 2023-10-20