Heraklion Crete: Cretan And Greek Dance Lesson At Arolithos

Exploring the rich cultural heritage of Crete doesn’t get much better than a Cretan and Greek dance lesson at Arolithos. Just 10 km from Heraklion, this traditional setting provides an immersive experience led by professional dancer Maria and her team. Over 2 hours, you will learn iconic dances like Sousta and Zorba the Greek, with a visit to the Rural History and Folk Craft Museum, a welcome drink, and access to a pool rounding out the package. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or new to the craft, this blend of education and relaxation promises an unforgettable taste of Cretan culture.

Key Points

A 2-hour dance lesson teaching famous traditional Greek and Cretan dances like Sousta and Zorba the Greek, led by professional instructors.
Opportunity to explore the Rural History and Folk Craft Museum after the dance lesson, providing a deeper culture.
Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it suitable for both individuals and private groups.
Included amenities such as a welcome drink, access to the on-site tavern and swimming pool, and hotel pick-up/drop-off.
Located about 10 km from Heraklion, with various transportation options available, including rental cars, taxis, and public buses.

Activity Overview

Visitors can typically learn traditional Greek and Cretan dances at Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village during the 2-hour dance lesson. The experience includes famous dance moves like Sousta and Zorba the Greek.

After the dance lesson, guests can explore the Rural History and Folk Craft Museum on-site. The activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Guided by live instructors in English and Greek, the dance lesson is suitable for both kids and adults. For those seeking a more private experience, a group option is available.

Instructor Information

The dance lessons at Arolithos are led by Maria, a professional dancer and leader of the dancing group at the traditional village. Collaborating with Michalis, the co-owner of Arolithos, and Evi, a renowned Cretan dancer, Maria brings a wealth of experience to the lessons. She teaches both kids and adults in the local cultural association, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of traditional Greek and Cretan dances.

Instructor	Role	Experience
Maria	Professional dancer, leader of the dancing group	Teaches kids and adults in the local cultural association
Michalis	Co-owner of Arolithos	Collaborates with Maria and Evi
Evi	Renowned Cretan dancer	Collaborates with Maria and Michalis

Participants in the dance lesson will receive a dancing certificate and a complimentary CD of Cretan and Greek music, adding to the immersive cultural experience.

Included Amenities

The dance lesson package includes several amenities to enhance the participant’s experience. Entrance fees, a professional guide, and hotel pick-up/drop-off are all covered.

Upon arrival, guests can enjoy a welcome drink while taking in the panoramic views from the terrace. Afterward, they’re free to relax and have lunch at the on-site tavern and swimming pool.

This allows participants to fully enjoy the Cretan culture and continue their enjoyment of the lesson.

The included amenities ensure a seamless and comfortable experience from start to finish, allowing guests to focus on learning the traditional dances in a picturesque setting.

Participant Restrictions

Cretan and Greek Dance Lesson at Arolithos

While the Cretan and Greek dance lesson at Arolithos is an engaging cultural experience, there are some participant restrictions to be aware of.

Certain individuals, such as pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users, may not be well-suited for the activity. The dance lesson involves lively traditional dances that require physical agility and mobility, which could be challenging for these groups.

The 2-hour session may also prove taxing for those with limited stamina or medical conditions. It’s essential for potential participants to consider their physical capabilities before booking the experience to ensure they can fully enjoy the dance lesson and avoid any discomfort or safety concerns.

Customer Feedback

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Cretan and Greek dance lesson at Arolithos, awarding it an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 11 reviews. Participants highlighted the knowledgeable and enthusiastic instructors, who made the enjoyable dance experience both fun and educational. The friendly and helpful staff at Arolithos also received positive remarks, creating a welcoming atmosphere. While some reviewers noted the quiet ambiance of the traditional village as a potential pro or con, the consensus is that the dance lesson and museum tour offer a fascinating glimpse into Cretan culture.

Highlights	Lowlights
Knowledgeable instructors	Quiet village atmosphere
Enjoyable dance experience	–
Friendly and helpful staff	–
Interesting museum tour	–
Fascinating culture	–

Booking and Cancellation

For those interested in booking the Cretan and Greek dance lesson at Arolithos, the process is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The 2-hour dance lesson is available daily, with a live tour guide offering instruction in both English and Greek. Participants can opt for a private group experience as well.

The lesson includes entrance fees, a professional guide, and hotel pick-up/drop-off.

After the dance session, visitors can relax and enjoy a welcome drink on the terrace, followed by an opportunity to have lunch at the tavern and use the swimming pool.

This activity offers a convenient and hassle-free way to take in the rich cultural traditions of Crete.

Getting There

The Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village is located about 10 kilometers from the city of Heraklion, the capital of Crete.

Visitors can easily reach the venue by a variety of transportation options, including rental cars, taxis, or the local bus system. If you’re driving, there’s ample free parking available on-site.

Taxis can be booked in advance or hailed on the spot, and the journey takes around 20 minutes from central Heraklion. For those relying on public transport, buses run regularly from the city center, with the ride lasting approximately 30 minutes.

Arolithos also provides a pick-up and drop-off service for guests, ensuring a hassle-free arrival and departure.

What to Expect

Once visitors arrive at the Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village, they can look forward to an immersive experience in the local culture and traditions. The 2-hour dance lesson at the village promises an engaging and fun-filled activity. Participants will learn the famous Sousta and Zorba the Greek dances from professional instructors, including Maria, a renowned Cretan dancer. The lesson also includes a visit to the Rural History and Folk Craft Museum, providing a deeper understanding of Cretan heritage. After the lesson, guests can relax and enjoy a welcome drink on the terrace, or indulge in a delightful lunch at the on-site tavern and swimming pool.

What to Expect	Details
Dance Lesson	2-hour lesson on traditional Cretan and Greek dances, including the Sousta and Zorba the Greek
Instructors	Led by professional dancers Maria, Michalis, and Evi
Museum Visit	Tour of the Rural History and Folk Craft Museum
Amenities	Welcome drink, on-site tavern, and swimming pool
Participant Restrictions	Not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Attire Recommended for the Dance Lesson?

The recommended attire for the dance lesson is comfortable, loose-fitting clothing like shorts, t-shirts, and flat, non-slip shoes. Participants should avoid wearing anything too restrictive or formal, as the dances involve lively movements.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Dance Shoes?

Participants are welcome to bring their own dance shoes for the lesson. While not required, wearing comfortable, non-slip footwear can enhance the dance experience and help participants feel more confident on the dance floor.

Is There an Option to Take Private Lessons?

Yes, there’s a private group option available for the dance lesson. The private session allows participants to receive more personalized attention and instruction from the experienced dance instructors.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Activity?

The dance lessons are suitable for participants of all ages, from children to adults. There are no age restrictions for this activity. The instructors are experienced in teaching both kids and adults the traditional Greek and Cretan dances.

Can the Activity Be Booked as Part of a Package Deal?

The activity can likely be booked as part of a package deal. Many tour operators offer this dance lesson along with other Cretan experiences like wine tastings or historical tours. Customers should inquire about package options when booking the activity.