The bus will pick you up promptly from your assigned location and take you to Sfakia which is located in southern Chania. From there you will enter the boat that will take you to Glyka Nera in about 15 minutes. Glyka Nera is also known as “Sweet Water Beach” and it’s one the most beautiful beaches in Crete. Its name stems from the fresh water spring that bubbles up amongst the pebbles. It is a spectacular beach with crystal clear turquoise water and rugger cliffs. Here you will have 2 hours free time to take a swim and a coffee break. You then board the boat which will take you to Loutro. Loutro is amphitheatrically built above the bay where you can soak up the beautiful surroundings. Here you will have 3 hours of free time to eat in one of the many exceptional restaurants or take a swim and relax along the beachside. The last stop is in Sfakia where you will have free time to explore the charming seaside village. Sfakia is surrounded by untamed landscapes which makes it the perfect end to this exciting excursion. Our bus and experienced personnel will be waiting to take you back to Rethymno.
Important note :
The bus will not wait for anyone that is late to any meeting point as the boats leave promptly on the assigned time schedule.
Boat charges are not included in the price.
Drive along the coastline to Chania, then travel up to the Omalos plateau in the White Mountains. From there, embark on a trek into the Samaria Gorge, which is 18 km long, 3-150 meters wide, and up to 700 meters deep. The Samaria National Park is a significant natural reserve that showcases a range of natural wonders, including wildflowers, century-old trees, rock formations, and crystal-clear springs.
The hike begins at an altitude of 1200 m on the Omalos plateau and takes around 4-6 hours. You’ll pass through the longest gorge in Europe, which features breathtaking beauty and diverse scenery. The narrowest part of the gorge is only 3 meters wide, and the rock walls soar steeply by 350 meters at this point. Please note that the path through the gorge is rugged, rocky, and uneven, making it unsuitable for unfit individuals or clients with heart problems, high blood pressure, or pregnancy.
Throughout the journey, there are numerous rest stops where you can find restrooms and drinking water. In the afternoon, you’ll arrive at the charming fishing village of Agia Roumeli on the Libyan Sea, where you can relax in the taverns or swim in the crystal-clear, turquoise sea after the hike. Later in the day, you’ll take a one-hour boat ride from Agia Roumeli to Chora Sfakion, passing the magnificent rocks of the southern coast of Crete, where our bus will be waiting to transport you back home.
We will set a meeting point in the heart of modern Chania town and we will start our experience in the Cretan taste. As a first stop we will try the famous traditional Bougatsa which combines the light salty taste of fresh cheese with sugar in an extremely crispy thin layer of dough. Of course, a Greek traditional coffee could not be missing of this typical Chania breakfast.
Then we will find ourselves in the paradise of herbs and not only… A local expert of herbs will introduce us to the many different varieties of herbs from the mountains of Crete that are known for their healing and soothing nature. Malotira, Fliskouni, Diktamo, Sage, cinnamon, honey, oil and legumes, all organically produced and only from the island of Crete.
Next stop will be in the mayor’s house, not for us to meet him but because there we will visit a local, family running, traditional “kaltsounadiko”. The word means the preparation room of the traditional dish called “kaltsouni” which is a kind of small pie with traditional sheet, filled with cheese or greens or a mixture of these two and baked in the oven or fried. Sweet and savory dishes will excite our taste buds…
And now the time has come to try all the types of cheeses produced in Crete. The traditional and the contemporary, marry to give us the ultimate taste!!! Next stop the Cretan cheese world. This small shop is the branch of a cheese factory, well known to the locals, that presents its flavors to us. We will try different types of cheese that are made in in modern facilities but preserving the tradition.
At this point a break is necessary and so we will follow the way to the old port of Chania having a walk next to the sea giving us the opportunity to share with you some of the history of the city.
Following, we will be welcomed under the shade of the Plane trees with a different dish from the southern region of Chania, the Sfakia area, with their homonymous pie and the famous Dakos dish.
Through the most picturesque alleys and after a short walking we will enjoy Gyros and beer. You should not leave Greece without trying the traditional souvlaki!!!
And if you thought we were done you were wrong…Have you ever heard about Loukoumades??
If yes then we have a surprise for you, if not then get ready for an explosion of flavors in your mouth that will last for a long time and you will remember it forever. Golden balls of dough filled with chocolate, deep fried and covered by honey and sesame… Of course, our gustatory journey could not miss the ice cream that will accompany this wonderful treat.
Embark on an unforgettable journey from Rethymno to Samaria Gorge, where adventure and natural splendor await. Board our comfortable bus accompanied by an experienced guide who will enrich your experience with insights into the region’s history and geology.
Upon arrival, we make a brief stop at a tavern in Omalos for a rest or optional breakfast, before heading to the entrance of the gorge. Here, we begin our trek with our knowledgeable guide. The hike typically takes around 5-6 hours, but the duration may vary depending on individual fitness levels and walking pace.
After completing the trek, we’ll have free time in the charming seaside village of Agia Roumeli. Relax by the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea or explore the village’s quaint streets and traditional tavernas.
Finally, we’ll take a boat back to Sfakia, where our bus awaits to transport us back to the hotels, concluding our adventure through Samaria Gorge.
Potamos beach, along with its neighbouring Pirgos beach, is situated on the northwest shore of Gavdos island, 7km northwest from the Karave port. The beach’s striking features include its lengthy stretch of reddish sand, shallow waters, impressive clay geological formations, and steep cliffs, all of which emerge from a small canyon. The beach earns its name, Potamos, from the Greek word for river.
This beach, enveloped in pines and junipers, is a popular spot for hiking enthusiasts. Visiting the river area offers a unique opportunity to examine the surrounding rock formations or indulge in a clay spa treatment.
The Lighthouse – Ambelos – Potamos Trail
The principal way to access Potamos beach is by a 1.5-2 hour hike from Ambelos. Before reaching Ambelos, it’s worth visiting the Gavdos lighthouse, situated at an altitude of 368m. The lighthouse, which now functions as a small museum and coffee shop, was constructed in 1880 and could be seen from 40 miles away (ranking it the 2nd longest distance globally). However, it was bombed in May 1942 and later reconstructed. A little further along, you’ll encounter the chapels and deserted houses of Ambelos, where the crumbling stone cottages evoke memories of Gavdos’ bygone era.
The path to Potamos from Ambelos traverses a dense pine forest and provides views of the Gavdopoula islet. The hike is fairly easy, making it suitable for beginner hikers. Alternatively, a dirt road leading to a spot about 500m east of the beach is available for those who prefer not to walk. Midway, you’ll come across the derelict settlement of Neveli.
Bo Cove
As you make your way down to Potamos, you’ll notice Bo’s rocky shore to your left. Bo is a tiny cove facing north with a rocky seabed. The locals claim its peculiar name originates from the sound “bo bo” made by the waves crashing against the rocks.
The Tower, or Pirgos, is positioned along the northwestern shoreline of Gavdos, a mere 6km northwest from the Karave port. Two neighboring beaches of emerald sand split by a smattering of rocks are the highlights of Pirgos bay. These secluded and unspoiled spots are often chosen by outdoor campers, given their significant distance from any tourist facilities. The beach is shielded by towering cliffs and lacks any natural tree shade.
The only routes to Pirgos are by foot or boat. A trek from the village of Ambelos will last approximately 2-2.5 hours, while the descent to the beach via the steep path from the bay’s northern tip requires careful attention. One guarantee is the lasting impression left by your first encounter with Pirgos’ sparkling sea and untamed surroundings. Don’t forget to pack essentials like water and food for your visit.
Lavrakas beach is situated around 2km west of Agios Ioannis beach, close to Gavdos island’s northern tip. The beach can be reached by a 20-30 minute walk from Agiannis, or by bus from Karave. Lavrakas boasts soft golden sand with scattered rocks and is completely unorganized. It is one of Gavdos’ most secluded beaches since it can only be accessed on foot.
The name Lavrakas is believed by many to be derived from the Greek term for a bass fish, “lavraki”. However, it is more likely that the name originated from the Minoan term “lavrys”, representing the symbol of their civilization, the double axe. This belief is bolstered by the discovery of 20 looted Minoan graves-caves in the northern area of the juniper wood, south of Lavrakas. These caves have been connected to the mythological cave of Calypso, with many asserting that Gavdos is the island where Ulysses was stranded and resided for seven years as per Homer’s Odyssey. Further south of Lavrakas, near Saint Nicholas’ church and within the dried Kedres torrent, remnants of ancient structures have been discovered.
Moving eastwards from Lavrakas, between Lavrakas and Pirgos, lies the small, stony beach of Stavrolimni. It can be accessed from either direction, featuring sand and a few rocks, and is formed at the exit of a stream that originates from the Agios Nikolaos chapel, carrying clay. In April and May, when the clay is still damp, the beach is perfect for a natural spa. It is bordered by a grove of pine and cedar trees.
Situated 21 nautical miles south of Sfakia, the unspoiled paradise of Gavdos Island stands as one of Europe’s final untouched sanctuaries, boasting stunning beaches and striking untamed landscapes. The island’s primary harbor, Karave, is nestled on the eastern coastline. Adjacent to the harbor is the pebbled Karave bay, extending southwards to Korfos bay via Agii Pateres beach. Despite its lack of organization, it remains the lone option for those desiring a swim near the port while awaiting the ferry’s arrival. The bay’s waters are notably clear and deep, although Karave’s swimming experience may not compare favorably with the other beaches on Gavdos.
Nearby the beach, you’ll find a handful of houses, a café, a tavern, and some available accommodations. There’s also a bus service operating from Karave, providing access to the island’s other settlements and beaches.
Historically notable, pottery from the Late Neolithic era, believed to originate from a tomb, was discovered south of Karave. The tomb itself, however, has not been located and is presumed to have been destroyed.
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Offering city views, Villa Kastri in Gavdos offers accommodation and a garden. Free WiFi is availablethroughout the property.
Offering a terrace or balcony with views of the sea and mountain, the units feature air conditioning, a seating area, cable flat-screen TV and kitchenette. A fridge, a stovetop and kitchenware are also featured, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
The apartment offers a picnic area.
If you would like to discover the area, hiking and walking tours are possible in the surroundings and Villa Kastri can arrange a car rental service.
The nearest airport is Chania International, 122 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a free airport shuttle service.
from
€81
/night
Remotely located in Gavdos Island, Gavdos Princess offers a restaurant and self-catering accommodation. Free WiFi access is available in public areas.
Opening to a terrace with Libyan Sea, mountain and garden views, all air-conditioned apartments at Gavdos Princess feature a kitchenette with cooking hobs and dining table. A seating area, a TV, and a bathroom with a shower come standard.
The closest beach, as well as restaurants and mini markets can be found at a distance of 3 km. Shuttle service can be arranged free of charge. Free private parking is possible on site.
Situated in Sgoudiana of Gavdos island, Metochi Gavdos features a tavern and views of the sea. Free WiFi is provided .
All rooms open to a terrace with views. Every unit comes with a private bathroom with a bath or shower. The windows are fitted with insect mesh. Towels and bed linen are available. Fans are available to guests.
Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant, with packed lunches available on request.
The area is popular for hiking. Transfer from/to the port can be provided at an extra charge. There is a bus service from/to our accommodation.
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