Set out on a luxurious private tour from Rethymno to explore the stunning attractions of South Crete. This one-day adventure combines natural beauty, rich history, and cultural highlights, taking you through the breathtaking Imbros Gorge, the historic Venetian castle at Fragkokastello, the picturesque village of Plakias, and the serene Moni Preveli monastery. With a relaxing break for swimming and dining, you’ll learn about the captivating landscapes and intriguing past of this remarkable region. Prepare to be enchanted as you uncover the hidden gems that make South Crete a truly remarkable destination.
Key Points
- This private luxury transportation service covers 5 destinations in South Crete, including Imbros Gorge, Fragkokastello, Plakias, and Moni Preveli.
- The tour starts at €11,428 for up to 4 participants for 8 hours, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Highlights include a 30-minute photo stop at Imbros Gorge, visiting the Venetian castle and beach at Fragkokastello, and 2 hours of leisure time in Plakias.
- The historic Moni Preveli monastery, with its ornate frescoes and valuable manuscripts, is also included in the tour.
- Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned private mini-bus, with pickup and drop-off service from select locations in Rethymno.
Overview and Pricing
This private luxury transportation service to attractions in South Crete costs from €11,428 per group of up to 4 participants and lasts for 8 hours.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, securing their booking without immediate payment.
The service includes pickup from select locations around Rethymno and drop-off at 8 different destinations. It provides an in-depth exploration of the region’s natural and cultural highlights, such as the Imbros Gorge, Fragkokastello, Plakias Beach, and Moni Preveli Monastery.
Comfortable transportation and personal expenses are covered, making this an all-inclusive and convenient way to discover the best of South Crete.
Itinerary and Stops
The private luxury transportation service picks up guests from select locations around Rethymno and takes them on a journey through the highlights of South Crete.
The first stop is the Imbros Gorge, where visitors can enjoy a 30-minute photo opportunity.
The tour then proceeds to Fragkokastello, a Venetian castle and sandy beach, allowing guests to explore and take photos.
The highlight of the day is Plakias, a picturesque village with a clean, organized beach, where guests can spend 2 hours swimming, relaxing, and enjoying lunch.
Imbros Gorge
Imbros Gorge, the second most popular gorge for walkers in Crete, offers visitors a stunning natural landscape to explore during the private luxury transportation tour. Stretching over 11 kilometers, this narrow ravine features towering limestone walls, lush vegetation, and a tranquil stream running through its heart. Visitors can enjoy a 30-minute photo stop to capture the gorge’s breathtaking beauty.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Length | 11 kilometers |
| Terrain | Limestone walls, lush vegetation, tranquil stream |
| Duration | 30-minute photo stop |
The Imbros Gorge promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts, providing a glimpse into Crete’s rugged and picturesque countryside during the luxury transportation tour.
Fragkokastello
After exploring the natural wonder of Imbros Gorge, the private luxury transportation tour takes visitors to Fragkokastello, a local Venetian castle with a sandy beach that offers a chance to immerse in the region’s rich history and scenic beauty.
The striking castle, which dates back to the 14th century, stands as a testament to the area’s turbulent past, having withstood numerous sieges over the centuries. Visitors can wander the castle grounds, take in the panoramic views, and then retreat to the adjacent beach to relax, swim, and take in the tranquil surroundings. The combination of historical significance and natural splendor makes Fragkokastello a highlight of the tour.
Key features of Fragkokastello:
- 14th-century Venetian castle with a storied past
- Scenic sandy beach perfect for swimming and relaxation
- Panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and coastline
Plakias
Next, the private luxury transportation tour takes visitors to the picturesque village of Plakias, where they’ll have around 2 hours to explore the area.
Plakias boasts a clean, organized beach with excellent facilities, making it an ideal spot for swimming and relaxation. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, take in the scenic views, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the seaside restaurants.
The village offers a charming, laid-back atmosphere, with traditional Greek tavernas and shops lining the streets. Guests can soak up the local culture, dine on fresh seafood, and enjoy the tranquil, Mediterranean ambiance of this coastal gem.
Moni Preveli
The tour then proceeds to the historic Moni Preveli, a 17th-century monastery revered for its significant role in Cretan history. This impressive complex sits atop a hill overlooking the Libyan Sea, exuding an air of tranquility and spirituality.
Visitors can explore the monastery’s key features:
- The main church, with its ornate frescoes and impressive iconostasis.
- The historic library, housing a valuable collection of manuscripts and religious texts.
- The museum, which showcases artifacts and relics that reflect the monastery’s long and storied past.
After a 30-minute visit, the tour continues its journey, leaving the peaceful setting of Moni Preveli behind.
Transportation and Amenities
For the private luxury transportation tour, participants are typically provided with an air-conditioned private mini-bus for the pickup and drop-off at various locations around Rethymno. The comfortable transfer vehicle ensures a smooth and enjoyable return journey after the day’s activities. However, it’s important to note that any personal expenses, extra beverages, or additional meals are not included in the tour package.
| Included | Not Included |
|---|---|
| Air-conditioned private mini-bus | Personal expenses |
| Pickup and drop-off service | Extra beverages |
| Comfortable return transfer | Additional meals |
Guests are advised to come prepared with comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen to make the most of the day’s adventures.
Recommendations
To make the most of the Rethymno travel experience, guests are advised to come prepared with comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen.
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so this should be kept in mind when planning the trip. Accommodations should also be specified in advance to ensure efficient pickup arrangements.
The tour provides several recommendations for a seamless and enjoyable experience:
- Dress appropriately for the weather and activities, including the possibility of swimming at Plakias Beach.
- Bring any necessary personal items or medications, as the tour doesn’t include additional amenities.
- Be aware of the tour’s duration and plan accordingly to make the most of the stop-offs and sightseeing opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Customize the Itinerary to Include Other Attractions?
Yes, the itinerary can be customized to include other attractions. Travelers can work with the tour provider to modify the stops and activities based on their interests and preferences.
Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Multiple Languages?
The tour guide is fluent in multiple languages, including English, allowing them to provide informative and engaging commentary throughout the private luxury transportation experience to the attractions in South Crete.
What Are the Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off Options?
The tour offers pickup and drop-off at 8 locations around Rethymno, including Stavromenos, Petrés, Platanes, Koumbés, Rethimno, Adelianos Kampos, Gerani, and Georgioupoli. Travelers should provide their accommodation name for pickup details.
Are There Any Age or Physical Fitness Requirements for the Tour?
The tour does not have any specific age or physical fitness requirements. However, it may not be suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the activities involved, such as walking in the Imbros Gorge.
Do You Provide Child Seats or Booster Seats for the Transportation?
Yes, child seats and booster seats are provided for the transportation as needed. The private mini-bus is equipped to safely accommodate children of all ages on the tour.
Recap
This private tour from Rethymno offers a captivating blend of Crete’s natural wonders, historical landmarks, and cultural treasures.
Visitors will marvel at the dramatic Imbros Gorge, explore the Venetian-era Fragkokastello Castle, enjoy a swim and lunch in the picturesque Plakias, and discover the serene Moni Preveli monastery.
With comfortable transportation and ample time to explore, this day-long excursion promises an unforgettable experience in South Crete.
