East Crete’s Katharo Plateau and Sarakina Gorge offer a unique SUV tour that immerses visitors in the region’s stunning landscapes and historic villages. This 6-hour adventure promises cultural enrichment and natural beauty, from the picturesque Myrtos to the charming Krista. Travelers will explore the serene Katharo Plateau, venture through the Sarakina Gorge’s limestone walls and waterfalls, and enjoy a refreshing swim. With convenient hotel pickup and a live guide, this tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into the wonders that await those who venture off the beaten path in East Crete.
Key Points
- The 6-hour SUV tour in East Crete offers panoramic views of the Katharo Plateau and explores the Sarakina Gorge with its limestone walls and waterfalls.
- The tour includes visits to the historic villages of Krista and Myrtos, providing an immersive cultural experience for participants.
- Scenic highlights of the tour include the striking natural landscapes, such as the rugged terrain, lush vegetation, and distant views of the Libyan Sea.
- The tour is suitable for up to 6 participants and is priced starting from €5,075 per person, with hotel pickup and a live English-speaking guide included.
- One customer review indicates significant issues with the tour, and potential customers are advised to consider this negative feedback before booking.
Tour Overview and Details
This East Crete SUV Tour explores the stunning landscapes of the Katharo Plateau and Sarakina Gorge, offering a 6-hour adventure for a small group of up to 6 participants.
Priced from €5,075 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and a live English-speaking guide.
Visitors will experience the charming villages of Krista and Myrtos, admire the breathtaking views of the Katharo Plateau, and discover the natural wonder of the Sarakina Gorge.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides flexibility and convenience.
Suitable clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended, as the gorge features some slippery and rocky areas.
Itinerary Highlights
The East Crete SUV Tour allows guests to explore the stunning landscapes of the region, from the charming villages of Krista and Myrtos to the breathtaking views of the Katharo Plateau and the natural wonder of the Sarakina Gorge.
Travelers will visit the historic village of Krista and the picturesque village of Myrtos, taking in the unique charm of these local communities.
At the Katharo Plateau, they’ll be treated to panoramic vistas that showcase Crete’s natural beauty.
The tour culminates with a journey through the Sarakina Gorge, where visitors can marvel at the limestone walls, small waterfalls, and lush vegetation that make this natural wonder a true highlight of the experience.
Sarakina Gorge Description
Sarakina Gorge measures approximately 1.5 kilometers in length and varies in width from 3 to 10 meters. The limestone walls tower up to 150 meters high, creating a captivating natural feature adorned with small waterfalls, lush vegetation, and small caves used as shelters.
Visitors can expect an easy walk through the gorge, though some areas may be slippery and rocky. At certain points, they’ll need to wade through shallow water. The tour culminates at a small waterfall and refreshing pool, providing an opportunity to take a swim and cool off.
Proper attire, such as comfortable shoes and swimwear, is recommended for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Visitor Information
Visitors to the East Crete SUV tour should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hats, swimwear, towels, and hiking shoes for the varied terrain and activities.
This tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments.
However, the tour operator has taken extra hygiene precautions, including:
- Disinfecting the vehicles
- Providing hand sanitizer
- Supplying masks and gloves
- Implementing other safety measures
Visitors can expect a fun and safe experience exploring the stunning landscapes of East Crete in an SUV.
Customer Feedback
Based on the information provided, only one customer review is available for the East Crete SUV Tour, and it has an overall rating of 1 out of 5 stars.
This suggests that the customer wasn’t satisfied with their experience. The review was left by a traveler from Italy in September 2021.
While the details of the customer’s specific concerns aren’t provided, the low rating indicates that there were significant issues with the tour that didn’t meet the customer’s expectations.
Potential customers should keep this negative feedback in mind when deciding whether to book this SUV tour in East Crete, as it may not deliver a satisfactory experience for all visitors.
Exploring East Crete’s Landscapes
The East Crete SUV Tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through the region’s stunning natural landscapes, showcasing the dramatic Katharo Plateau and the captivating Sarakina Gorge. As the tour winds through the rugged terrain, passengers are treated to breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, towering limestone cliffs, and lush vegetation.
The highlights of the tour include:
- Exploring the serene Katharo Plateau, where the panoramic views are nothing short of mesmerizing.
- Navigating the narrow, winding path of the Sarakina Gorge, marveling at the towering limestone walls and the small waterfalls that cascade through the lush greenery.
- Stopping at the charming villages of Krista and Myrtos, where visitors can enjoy the local culture and traditions.
- Experiencing the natural wonder of the Sarakina Gorge, with its shallow pools and refreshing swimming opportunities.
Discovering Historic Villages
As they journey through East Crete, tour participants can’t help but be captivated by the charm of the historic villages dotting the landscape.
The tour first stops in the charming village of Myrtos, where visitors wander the narrow streets lined with traditional stone houses. They then explore the historic village of Krista, known for its well-preserved architecture and stunning views over the surrounding countryside.
Throughout the villages, participants learn about the rich cultural heritage and daily life of the local residents. These authentic glimpses into Cretan village living add an extra layer of immersion to the already breathtaking natural scenery encountered during the tour.
Admiring Breathtaking Views
Atop the Katharo Plateau, tour participants are treated to breathtaking panoramic vistas that stretch across East Crete’s rugged, mountainous terrain. The plateau offers a unique perspective, allowing visitors to admire:
- The striking limestone peaks that tower over the landscape.
- The lush, verdant valleys dotted with olive groves and vineyards.
- The distant, azure waters of the Libyan Sea.
- The dramatic changes in elevation and terrain that characterize this region.
These awe-inspiring views provide a powerful reminder of the natural beauty and diversity that defines East Crete.
For those seeking a true appreciation of the island’s landscape, the Katharo Plateau is an essential stop on this unforgettable SUV adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The maximum group size for the tour is 6 participants. The tour is a small-group experience, limiting the number of travelers to ensure an intimate and personalized adventure.
Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?
The tour does not offer an option to customize the itinerary. It follows a set route and schedule that includes visiting the Katharo Plateau and Sarakina Gorge. Participants cannot request changes to the predetermined itinerary.
Can the Tour Be Booked for a Private Group?
Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. The operator accommodates private groups and can customize the itinerary to meet the group’s preferences and needs. Booking a private tour allows for a more personalized experience.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?
The tour operator doesn’t currently offer any discounts or package deals. However, they may be willing to negotiate a group rate for a private tour, so it’s worth inquiring about that option if you’re interested in booking for a larger party.
What Is the Refund Policy for Cancellations?
The tour has a free cancellation policy – customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility and protects customers’ investment if their plans change.
Recap
The East Crete: Katharo Plateau and Sarakina Gorge SUV Tour offers an immersive journey through stunning landscapes and historic villages.
Participants can explore the picturesque Myrtos, the charming Krista, and the serene Katharo Plateau, while enjoying a scenic drive through the Sarakina Gorge and a refreshing swim.
With a live guide and convenient hotel pickup, this experience promises both cultural enrichment and natural beauty.
