A two-centre trip in Chania and Elounda, on the fantastic island of Crete, focused on the very best of the Mediterranean Diet, with plenty of fun and interactive activities along the way.  Come join us!

A little about the Cretan Diet

In August 2024, Crete was nominated as the European gastronomic region for 2026, and so, a culinary paradise awaits.  This prestigious accolade, bestowed by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and tourism (IGCAT), underscores the island’s rich culinary heritage and its influence in European gastronomy, a source of pride acknowledging its gastronomic identity, deeply rooted in its ancient history, revealing centuries old culinary traditions. We would be delighted to include you on this great culinary adventure.

The Aim

Spending 10 marvellous days on the beautiful shores of the largest and southernmost island in the Greek archipelago and immersing ourselves into one of the most delicious gastronomic journeys on offer in the Mediterranean. This introduction, or re-introduction to some, of this marvellous island, is sure to fill you with enriching and memorable moments that will awaken your senses on so many levels,

Living The Experience

Enjoy a two-centre trip starting on the western coast of Crete, in the beautiful and historic town of Chania, as well as on the northern shores of the stunning Elounda Bay. Wander through prehistoric palaces like the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Knossos, hike in one of the most spectacular gorges in Europe, the Samaria Gorge, enjoy the thrill of an open jeep safari through gorgeous mountain and coastal terrain.  Let’s visit a pastoral settlement and meet the shepherds and their flocks where we’ll learn about the traditional methods of cheesemaking in the region and try our hand at making some. Known for its eclectic quality and production of extra virgin olive oil, we will visit a small family olive grove and learn about this important and key industry for the island, then enjoy dinner with the family in the intimacy of their home.  Crete is also very well known for its top-quality wines and the breathtaking scenery of its vineyards.  We enjoy a private tour and wine-tasting in a wonderful setting at a boutique vineyard. Roll up your sleeves and pick up the rolling pin and let’s get cooking! A fun and interactive Cretan cooking class is a must!  Learn to make traditional Cretan recipes in an old olive mill with a great lunch to follow with everything you made. Experience the superb beaches of Elafonisi, Balos Beach and Gramvousa Island, timeless monasteries, ancient pathways, exquisite seaside and mountain villages. Crete has it all!

The Price

$4, 499 per person based on double occupancy with minimum 10 travel guests

A deposit of $1,000 per person by September 1st 2025, with final balance due March 1st 2026 

Included Highlights:  One arrival and departure transfer, 5 nights in Chania, 5 nights in Elounda, 10 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 2 dinners. all sightseeing as described with any relevant entrance tickets on any of the included archaeological sites and museums, cooking class, escorted market visit snacks, boat trips for Chania region beaches and visit to Spinalonga, 

What's not included: Your flights, personal travel insurance, or any and all other extra personal expenses not mentioned in your itinerary for sightseeing, food, drink and transport.
 

The Adventure 

Day 1:  Arrival into Chania (5 nights)

Arrival at Chania Airport. One transfer will be provided from the airport to the hotel. Enjoy your arrival day at leisure to familiarise yourself with your lovely property and surrounding area.  Get together in the evening with your fellow travellers for a Raki followed by a traditional Cretan dinner.  D

Day 2: Chania 

This morning we begin your adventure by visiting the iconic and bustling Venetian Harbour. Admire architectural treasures like the Egyptian Lighthouse and the historic Mosque of the Janissaries. Explore the winding streets of the Old Town and browse along the colourful shops and welcoming cafe's. We will also explore the Agora, Chania’s municipal market, where we will sample local delicacies and fresh produce. The rest of the afternoon and evening is at leisure to discover more of lovely Chania on your own. B (market snacks included)

Day 3:  Chania  beaches and sailing trip

Today we explore the region’s beaches on a private sailing trip and immerse yourself in their natural beauty. Visit the region’s most renowned destinations, the pink sand beaches of Elafonisi and Balos Lagoon, with its incredible azure waters. The lagoon’s main characteristics include the shallow sea, the white-pinkish sand, and the stunning landscape surrounding it. These two breath-taking shores are known for their turquoise waters and long stretches of soft sand. Swim in the crystal clear waters and unwind in the warm Mediterranean sun, or engage in some water sports and other activities along these beautiful shores. Upon our return to Chania, the evening is at leisure to enjoy it's fabulous culinary and nightlife scene. B L (light lunch included on board the boat)

Day 4: Chania and nearby vilages

After a delicious breakfast we venture beyond the city limits and explore the charming nearby village of Vamos, at the foot of the White Mountains. Enjoy a walk through this traditional village with a coffee and traditional Cretan pastry break, before continuing our journey through the Imbros Gorge to reach Chora Sfakion. From here we take the boat to the pristine fishermen's village of Loutro, one of the most beautiful in the Chania region. Enjoy a fresh fish and seafood lunch before heading to the panoramic Kedrodassos Beach for a swim, then make our way back to Chania. Balance of the evening is free to relax as you wish. B L (Cretan pastry break with coffee included)

Day 5: Chania

This morning we roll up our sleeves, grab a rolling pin and start cooking....! In a magnificent setting on a private farm surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, learn about the ancient roots of Cretan cooking and enjoy making some delicious dishes under the watchful eye of our hosts, then tuck into a farm to table experience. B L

Day 6:  Chania to Elounda (5 nights) with visit to Rethymnon

Today we transfer from Chania to the beautiful Elounda Bay in the region of Heraklion, but first enjoy our scenic drive and visit to the beautifully preserved, medieval town of Rethymon. We will be hosted on a walking tour through its charming streets and its colourful Venetian harbour, including a special visit to a Cretan Lyra workshop, Later, enjoy some free time to explore Rethymnon on your own, it's wonderful textile and ceramic shops, and sample some local dishes for lunch before continuing to Elounda. Free evening to relax and enjoy our resort.

Day 7:  Elounda to Knossos and Heraklion

An amazing day of discovery going back to one of the oldest civilisations in the world and the oldest in Europe. With 7.000 years of history stretching back from the early neolithic to bronze age, the site of the extraordinary Palace of Knossos has always been inhabited. Learn about its highly intelligent and advanced society, the Minoans, their masterpieces, inspiring way of life and eventual demise. After the visit of Knossos, we make our way to the capital of the island, Heraklion, proudly named after the God Heracles (Hercules). Let's enjoy one of Crete's best known treats, Loukoumades (fried mini donuts drenched in a honey syrup) in the market, before a lovely stroll past the gorgeous  Venetian buildings and monuments,  After lunch, we conclude with a must visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, before returning to Elounda. Enjoy your evening at leisure and discover some of the nearby coastal towns, their wonderful taverna's by the sea, and vibrant nightlife. B (market snack included)

Day 8:  Elounda to Spinalonga

This morning we venture to the charming village of Plaka and the captivating island of Spinalonga. As you step ashore, explore the remnants of the Venetian fortress standing as a reminder reminder of its past. Wander through the streets, where abandoned houses and buildings still whisper tales of resilience and survival. Delve deeper into the history of Spinalonga with a visit to its small but very informative museum.  Discover the stories of the individuals who called this place home and gain insights into the strength and compassion that prevailed within these walls. In the early afternoon, sail back to Plaka and return to Elounda for a relaxing afternoon. Savour a seafood lunch at one of the quaint tavernas, indulging in the freshest catch of the day. Later, you can make a visit to the sunken Minoan ruins of Olous, a few minutes from the centre of Elounda. This evening we will enjoy dinner together with traditional music and dancing B D

Day 9:  Elounda

An exciting day awaits on our jeep safari exploring the amazing Lasithi Plateau. Learn how to make the Cretan fire water, "Tsipouro", at a rustic mountain distillery and get to know one of the local shepherds and his herd of goats. You will experience incredible mountain scenery with many traditional settlements and tiny white-washed chapels dotting the landscape along the way. A tasty and traditional Cretan mountain lunch awaits at a great taverna in a beautiful location. This evening return to Elounda and enjoy your evening at leisure. B L

Day 10:  Elounda and Lasithi Coast

This morning we continue our last day of adventure, which takes us along the eastern coastline, unveiling the hidden gems of Kavousi, with its endless olive groves, and superb views of the Ierapetra Isthmus and Mirabello Bay. Next, the coastal town of Sitia, well known for its excellent production of Olive Oil, medieval Venetian houses and imposing fortress. Pause for a coffee or refreshment at one of its inviting cafe's before heading off to one of Crete's most beautiful beaches, Vai, paradise on the Mediterranean Sea, where you are surrounded by Europe's largest palm forest.  Let's celebrate the end of our tour with a delicious farewell lunch at one of Vai's lovely beachfront Taverna's and toast to new found friends and great new memories of a wonderful trip.  Return to Elounda to prepare and rest before tomorrow's trip home. B L

Day 11:  Transfer from Elounda and Departure  from Heraklion Airport

After breakfast there will be one transfer provided to the Heraklion Airport from the hotel in Elounda for your departure flights home. 

Disclaimer:  This itinerary and availability of all of its components were available at the time of writing.  Any included component can be replaced without any notice if required, due to adverse weather conditions, strikes, public holidays, or any other unexpected events beyond our control.