Explore the mysteries of Crete with your family
 A unique itinerary situated for families that aim to come closer to Cretan nature and history through several outdoors and entertaining activities.
From our base we depart everyday for a different "adventure" to discover the real Crete.
Highlights include: River trek through the Preveli gorge that comes out in the sea through the forest of palm trees, Mountain Biking on Lassithi plateau (Zeus' birthplace and the plateau with the 10,000 windmills), Sea Kayaking to the island of Spinalonga (Venetian fortress), visit the magnificent Knossos Palace and the Natural History museum, Hiking on the sacred Mountain Karfi with spectacular views and Rock Climbing and Swimming at the beautiful beach of Agiofarago.
Family Activity Holidays in Crete - Itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL
Meet at Heraklion airport and transfer to the hotel situated at Stalida area just 200 meters from the beach. You will have time to rest from the journey or go to the beach. In the evening we will have a brief presentation of the whole trip and will continue with dinner at the hotel.
DAY 2: HIKING & CAVING
After breakfast we will drive towards the largest plateau of Crete - Lassithi plateau. Starting from the village of Tzermiado we shall pass through the small and beautiful "Nissimos" valley to reach the sacred summit of Karfi, which offers spectacular view to the north coast and a Minoan settlement. From the summit we shall descend back to Tzermiado where we have the chance to experience a small journey through mythology by visiting Dictaion Andro - the cave where Zeus was born.
 DAY 3:
SEA KAYAKING
Our sea adventure day starts from our water sports base at Elounda bay. At the base, we shall be informed about the right technique to paddle the two-seated sea-kayaks and we shall embark to our kayaks to stroke with a gentle slow row to the island of Spinalonga. After a swim break at Spinalonga's beach we shall explore the historic island that was a massive fortress for the Venetians and became later a leper colony. We shall paddle back to our water sports base where will have free time to rest and swim or even to participate in other water sports and fun activities such as windsurfing, water skiing, pedalos, banana boats, etc (with extra payment).
DAY 4: ROCK CLIMBING & SWIMMING
Hike through the historic gorge of Agiofarago before emerging at the crystal clear waters of Mediterranean Sea in the unique beach of Agiofarago and discover your spirit of adventure by participating in our Rock Climbing activity!
"Agiofarago" means "Gorge of Saints". This gorge used to be the shelter of the monks of the near-by Monasteries. On the sea cliffs there are climbing routes that are bolt - protected as well as routes that require natural protection (on nuts etc), for all abilities.
Our experience and enthusiasm for rock climbing, gave some spectacular climbing routes on the cliffs and the rocks of the area.
We invite you to participate in this unique fun activity – Rock Climbing, which builds group spirit and self-confidence.
Just dare to do it and you will be amazed of what you can achieve!!!
DAY 5: RIVER TREKKING
 Starting early in the morning we shall be transferred to the south area of Rethymno to Kourtaliotis gorge. Our first stop will be the waterfalls of the source of the river at the chapel of Agios Antonios. We will then be transferred to the arched Venetian bridge from where we shall hike to Preveli Palm Beach by following a path with wonderful views to the river and the palm forest.
In Summer time we may have a refreshing shower in the waterfalls at the source of the river and from the arched Venetian bridge we can walk in the actual river: Walking in the riverbed, swimming and playing in the spectacular natural playground of Kourtaliotis gorge, we shall have allot of fun. The exit of the gorge gives an unforgettable picture, as the river comes out in the sea through the forest of palm trees.
At the beach we shall have the opportunity to swim, either in the river or in the sea, enjoy our picnic lunch. From the beach we shall continue to visit Preveli monastery and the city of Rethymnon.
DAY 6: MOUNTAIN BIKING
With the gentle whir of our pedaling we explore the largest plateau of Crete - Lassithi plateau! At the foot of Dikti mountain range, we cycle around Lassithi plateau, the birthplace of Zeus and the valley of 10000 windmills. Although not in use anymore we will have the chance to see some of these windmills close to the 20 villages that are dotted around the periphery of the plateau.
Depending form our team we may pedal for about 2 1/2 hours on asphalt and dirt roads on a relatively flat route covering approximately 10- 20 km, visiting traditional villages and enjoying spectacular views and smells of Crete's countryside.
DAY 7: FREE DAY
This is a free day to spend it as you wish either relaxing at the beach or at the hotel or by visiting the archaeological museum of Heraklion (with the treasures of Minoan civilization) and the Knossos palace in order to enjoy the magnificent archaeological area holding remains of the Minoan city that thrived 3500 years ago and the famous palace dated 170-1450 B.C., excavated by Sir Arthur Evans at the beginning of this century. We suggest you also to visit the Natural History Museum that all the kids will be really exciting with all the exhibits.
DAY 8: DEPARTURE
This is the end of our trip we transfer you back at the airport at convenient time.
8 days family activity tour in Crete - Details
Price/Person:
€880 for adults
€770 for children
Group Size: 4-16 participants.
Price Includes: Services of the tour leader – guide, accommodation in half board basis, group transfers to and from Heraklion airport, all transport throughout the trip, all outdoor activities as mentioned in the program, personal accident insurance, VAT 19%.
Not Included: Transport to and from Crete, alcoholic beverages and soft drinks, personal expenses, entrance fees in Museums and other sites of interest (i.e. monasteries, caves, etc).
Insurance: Everyone participating in any of Cretan Adventures events/activities is covered by personal insurance through A.I.G GREECE. In case a participant is already covered by her/his insurance under better conditions for the chosen activities and is unwilling to be covered by A.I.G GREECE, s/he must notify in paper the above to Cretan Adventures one day before the event (excluding weekends or holidays), the latest.
Available Dates: Any date upon request from May to October 2010.
Transport: We travel by our own air-conditioned bus/car or taxis.
Accommodation: Half Board at Hotel with private facilities. The trip prices are based on double occupancy.
Food: Breakfast in the hotel and one meal per day. (Vegetarians are welcome on the trips)
Activity Level: The hikes offer a moderate trek with a maximum of 4 hours walk on rocky footpaths.
No previous experience is needed to any of our activities.
Equipment: Daypack (approx. 20-35 lt), trekking shoes, sport shoes, water bottle, hat, sun cream, sun glasses, swimming suit, casual clothing.
Note on Itineraries: Please bear in mind that the itinerary can be altered for numerous reasons beyond our control (e.g. harsh weather, trail conditions) to ensure the safety and the well being of the group. The final adventure selection is left up to the trip leader.
Crete Activity Holidays For Families: Contact us -|- Terms and Conditions
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