Rethymno Villages Adventure with Crete Local Adventures
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
9 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable with moderate walking on uneven surfaces and able to spend most of the day on foot with occasional breaks.
Overview
Spend a day uncovering the authentic rural heart of Crete with Crete Local Adventures. Discover historic villages, ancient olive groves, and traditional crafts beyond the usual tourist routes.
PRIVATE: Rethymno Villages Adventure
9 hours • all ages welcome
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About This Adventure
Embark on a 9-hour Rethymnon Villages Adventure, exploring Crete's enchanting rural life. Discover medieval villages, historic monasteries, and ancient olive groves while indulging in local cuisine and pottery crafts. Experience the island's rich traditions and support local communities, all while uncovering hidden gems off the typical tourist path.
On our Rethymnon Villages Adventure tour, we will hit the road to the lush rolling hills area of the Rethymnon region where bucolic medieval villages and iconic historic sites are located.
Let us introduce you to the authentic rural areas of Crete, a side of the island beyond the city centers that don’t see too many tourists by exploring abandoned historic monasteries, passing through the oldest olive groves in the Mediterranean, indulging in local recipes and admiring ancient ceramic techniques! Adventure awaits!
Duration
9 hours
Highlights
- Discover Cretan rural life in one of the most spectacular hilly parts of Crete (Rethymno region) and get a glimpse of how life was back in the late 19th century
- Visit the most sacred symbol of Cretans’ struggle for Freedom Arkadi Monastery, as well as other amazing hidden gems.
- Explore an off-the-beaten-path village and learn about - Cretan herbs and their use in everyday life
- Enjoy a walk through the charming village of Margarites known for its traditional pottery crafts
Local impact — How you help the local community by joining this tour:
- Rural tourism is promoted as we support local economies and deep-rooted traditions that don’t generally benefit from tourism.
- Traditional ways of cooking are supported that could be lost if not preserved.
- This tour promotes the traditional way of living and the customs of the area by visiting local craftsmen in their traditional venues
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy walking shoes
The villages have cobbled streets and uneven paths that require comfortable, supportive footwear.
Carry local currency
Some small shops and craft vendors may only accept cash, so bring euros for purchases.
Bring sun protection
Crete’s sun can be strong, especially in summer; pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Stay hydrated
Carry water during village walks as shade can be limited in the rural areas visited.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Cretan wild goats (Kri-Kri) often spotted on hill slopes
- Various bird species native to the Mediterranean scrubland
History
Arkadi Monastery stands as a symbol of Cretan resistance during Ottoman rule, where a 19th-century siege became a pivotal moment in the island’s fight for freedom.
Conservation
The tour supports sustainable rural tourism by focusing on low-impact visits and directly benefiting local economies, helping preserve the cultural landscape and traditional crafts.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Chania
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy walking shoes
Supportive shoes provide comfort and protection on cobbled streets and rural paths.
Water bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial throughout the 9-hour itinerary, especially in warm weather.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protect yourself from Crete’s strong sun during outdoor village walks.
summer specific
Light jacket or layered clothing
Prepare for cooler mornings and evenings in the village hills with versatile layers.
fall specific