Step off the beaten path with SeaByBus to uncover Crete’s countryside treasures—visit a 3,000-year-old olive tree, a stunning monastery, and a local brewery all in one immersive 5-hour tour.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels with light walking and short uphill areas
Wildlife
History
The ancient olive tree in Vouves is believed to be over 3,000 years old, making it one of the oldest known olive trees on the planet with uninterrupted fruit production.
Conservation
Local efforts protect the ancient olive groves and surrounding habitats to preserve both cultural heritage and biodiversity in the region.
SeaByBus
Step off the beaten path with SeaByBus to uncover Crete’s countryside treasures—visit a 3,000-year-old olive tree, a stunning monastery, and a local brewery all in one immersive 5-hour tour.
SeaByBus is a tour operator based in Rethymno, Crete, offering curated day trips and private routes across western and southern Crete.
The company organizes a range of experiences that highlight beaches, archaeological sites, traditional villages, natural landmarks, and local gastronomy. Popular shared routes include the Blue Route (Elafonisi, Falasarna, Vouves), Yellow Route (Rethymno, Plakias, Kournas Lake), Orange Route (Spili, Matala, Kournas Lake), Green Route (Chora Sfakion, Frangokastello, Imbros Gorge), and Sunset Route to Falasarna Beach. Private routes mirror shared options and add exclusive stops such as the Maroon Route to Knossos and Heraklion, the Lime Route on the Akrotiri Peninsula, and the Olive Route visiting monasteries, the ancient olive tree, and a local brewery. Many itineraries include multi-hour beach stops, olive oil tastings, local snacks, Greek coffee, and complimentary refreshments; select private tours mention luxury transport and complimentary snacks and flexibility. SeaByBus departures are centered on Rethymno, providing convenient access to western Crete attractions and southern coastal sites. Each trip summary specifies approximate durations ranging from roughly four hours for sunset excursions up to around ten hours for full-day archaeological and coastal explorations. The operator emphasizes straightforward itineraries that pair swimming and sunbathing with cultural visits such as the Transfiguration Monastery, Knossos palace, and the Ancient Olive Tree in Vouves. Travelers can choose shared group rides or private bookings to match pace and privacy preferences while exploring Crete’s beaches, gorges, and heritage. Booking information and on-trip logistics are provided in each trip description for clear pre-departure planning and customer support.
Base
Rethymno, Crete
Departure point for all routes
Trip Duration
4–10 hours
Half-day to full-day experiences
Tours Offered
11 routes
Beaches, history, and nature routes
Private Options
Private & Shared
Private routes available
Reserve a shared seat or a private route to Elafonisi, Falasarna, Knossos, or Lake Kournas — easy online booking and clear trip details.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Paths around the monastery and olive museum can be uneven and rocky; sturdy footwear will make walking easier.
Bring Sun Protection
Hats and sunscreen are important as parts of the tour are outdoors with limited shade.
Stay Hydrated
Carry a water bottle, especially during summer months when temperatures soar.
Camera Ready
You’ll want to capture the ancient olive tree and sweeping mountain views—keep your camera accessible.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
For navigating rocky and uneven paths comfortably throughout the tour.
Sun Hat
Protects your head and face on exposed sections under strong sun.
summer
Reusable Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated during warm weather or long outdoor stops.
Light Jacket or Layer
Useful in cooler mornings or when wind picks up at the monastery on higher elevation.
fall