Discover the rich heritage and timeless traditions of Crete on this unforgettable journey through some of the island’s most authentic and historic locations. Our first stop is the impressive Melidoni Cave, a place of great archaeological and historical importance dating back to the Neolithic period. We then continue to the picturesque village of Margarites, famous for its centuries-old pottery tradition, where you can stroll through narrow alleys and watch local artisans at work. Next, visit the historic Arkadi Monastery, one of Crete’s most iconic landmarks and a powerful symbol of freedom and resistance. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch in a mountain village accompanied by live local music and warm hospitality. Following lunch, take a relaxing walk through the village of Apostoli and visit a traditional old olive oil factory to discover the authentic process of olive oil production.

When History meets art and craft. This excursion is for those who want to discover Crete from Rethymnon without a long way driving in bus. We start from the most important monastery of Crete: The Historical Monastery of Arkadi. Afterward, you will enjoy a guided tour to the pottery workshop “TSIKALARIO", where Mrs Helen will show us the art of pottery. Right after, in a 2 km distance only, you will visit Margarites village where you will have free time for a lunch or a walk. After that, we will visit Melidoni Vilage and explore Melidoni cave at an altitude of 220 meters. You will discover an amazing cave filled full with stalactites and stalagmites, but also full of History. At the end of the tour we will visit a traditional olive oil mill, where you’ll have free time to learn about olive oil production and enjoy a tasting of premium Cretan olive oil.

Private experience • Flexible itinerary • Local insight Experience Crete’s history, culture, and local craftsmanship on this carefully curated private tour, led by a local host. • Walk through the charming Old Town of Rethymno, with its Venetian harbor, colorful alleys, and hidden churches. • Visit the historic Arkadi Monastery, a powerful symbol of Cretan freedom and resilience. • Continue to Margarites Pottery Village, where centuries-old ceramic traditions come alive in local workshops. Depending on your interests and time, we may enrich your experience with one additional stop, such as: • A traditional Olive Mill • Melidoni Cave • The Ancient Eleutherna Museum (Closed Tuesday) • A local Honey Museum • A local Winery Ideal for travelers who value authenticity, flexibility, and culture. You deserve the high standards of SunSud Tours Shore Excursion • Cruise Friendly • Ports of Call Tours • Full Day Tour From Heraklion Port • Crete • Rethimno • Noon • Afternoon

Nous commencerons notre excursion par la visite d'un magnifique village caché, Margarites. La tradition de la poterie y remonte à plusieurs générations et vous pourrez assister à une petite démonstration. Après 20 minutes de route, nous poursuivrons notre excursion vers la partie religieuse. Notre objectif est de vous familiariser avec notre culture et nos coutumes religieuses. Le monastère d'Arkadi est probablement le monastère le plus célèbre de Crète, en raison de l'Holocauste de 1866. Explorons ensemble la nature crétoise. Les gorges de Patsos, petites mais magnifiques, commencent à Ano Assites. La région environnante est d'une beauté naturelle particulière. Si le temps ne nous le permet pas, nous pourrons visiter un musée et un site archéologique très intéressants dans le village antique voisin d'Eleftherna. Profitez d'un déjeuner traditionnel dans une taverne locale.

Explore the cultural and natural highlights of central Crete with a private tour from Chania or Rethymno. Visit the historical Arkadi Monastery, descend into the legendary Melidoni Cave, and discover the artisan pottery village of Margarites. Along the route, learn from your guide about the ancient city of Eleutherna, once a major cultural center of Crete. End your day with a stroll through the romantic alleys of Rethymno Old Town. • Visit the historical Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of Cretan resistance • Explore Melidoni Cave, a site of natural beauty and tragic history • Stop in the traditional pottery village of Margarites • Walk through the picturesque streets of Rethymno Old Town • Hear stories of Ancient Eleutherna on your way through the region

Découvrez le charme de notre excursion au coucher du soleil à Réthymnon. Imprégnez-vous des merveilles de la nature en parcourant collines, villages et vallées. Appréciez l'hospitalité crétoise au village vénitien de Pikris, replongez dans le passé au monastère d'Arkadi et admirez le coucher de soleil à couper le souffle, un verre de vin à la main, au sommet de la montagne. Savourez un repas crétois au bord de l'eau (option végétarienne disponible) à la taverne Limnokastro, entourée d'arbres centenaires. Un mélange de culture, d'histoire et de saveurs vous attend. Rejoignez-nous pour une expérience inoubliable au coucher du soleil à Réthymnon.