The
Picturesque Isle of Crete
Crete
is the home of Europe’s earliest civilization and a land where ancient myth and
modern reality blend seamlessly against a backdrop of outstanding natural
beauty. Our eight-day exploration
focuses on the central region of this fascinating island, and takes us to the
major sites of Minoan civilization and into the solitary wilderness below Mt.
Psiloritis, Crete’s highest peak.
We
begin in Heraklion, the island’s bustling capital, and visit the world-renowned
Knossos, palace of the legendary King Minos and the Minotaur. After paying homage at the reputed
birthplace of Zeus high in the hills, we descend to our comfortable hotel in
the charming mountain village of Zaros.
Set amongst spreading plane trees and surrounded by gushing streams,
this is our base. We visit isolated chapels and monasteries, tread the paths of
the ancients at Phaistos and Agia Triada, and swim in the crystal clear waters
of the Libyan Sea.
We
share our experiences with local people we meet along the way, and return home
each evening to a simple feast of freshly prepared traditional dishes. At the end of the week we return north
to spend our final night in Rethymnon, where Venetian and Turkish influences
combine in an unforgettable finale to our adventure.
Days/Nights: (8D/7N)
Meeting/Ending
Location: Heraklion, Crete
Comfort
Notes: 2 star simple
accommodations
Post
Tour: Chania, Crete (3D/2N)