Private Full-Day East Crete Tour from Heraklion

Our personalized tour of East Crete began with a visit to the traditional village of Mochos. Nestled in the mountains, Mochos has roots dating back to the second Byzantine period. The drive to Mochos offered breathtaking views of the Cretan landscape. Once there, we wandered through the narrow alleyways, absorbing the quaint charm of the village. The peaceful ambiance and historical architecture made this an enchanting start to our journey.

Discovering the Ancient Plane Tree in Krasi

Next, we visited Krasi, a village famed for its ancient plane tree, also known as the Writers’ Tree. This 2,400-year-old tree provided a shady spot for a refreshing beverage as we admired its grandeur. Walking the cobblestoned streets of Krasi, we felt transported back in time, appreciating the village’s historical significance and tranquil beauty.

Capturing Views from the Windmills of Lasithi Plateau

Our tour continued to the Windmills of Lasithi Plateau, where we were greeted with stunning panoramic views. The historic windmills, remnants of a once-thriving wind farm, stood as sentinels over the plateau. We captured some amazing photos here, with the expansive views of the fertile plains and surrounding mountains serving as a picturesque backdrop.

Exploring the Cave of Zeus

One of the tour’s highlights was the Cave of Zeus, believed to be the birthplace of the Greek god. The hike up to the cave was invigorating, with each step offering more stunning views of the Lassithi Plateau. Inside the cave, we marveled at the impressive stalactites and stalagmites, feeling the weight of its ancient and mythological significance.

Vibrant Agios Nikolaos

Our next destination was the vibrant city of Agios Nikolaos. Here, we had ample time to explore the bustling streets, visit local shops, and enjoy the cafes surrounding Lake Voulismeni. The city’s lively atmosphere and scenic beauty provided a wonderful contrast to the historical and natural sites we had visited earlier.

Charming Elounda and Plaka

From Agios Nikolaos, we traveled to Elounda, a village known for its luxurious hotels and famous visitors. Despite its opulence, Elounda retained its charm as a small fishing village. We then visited nearby Plaka, a picturesque fishing village where we had the option to swim in the clear waters, enjoy a leisurely lunch, or simply take in the lush green surroundings. The peaceful ambiance of Plaka was a delightful escape.

Historic Spinalonga Island

Our final stop was Spinalonga Island, a place steeped in history and emotion. Once a leper colony until 1957, Spinalonga has grown in popularity following the publication of Victoria Hislop’s novel, “The Island.” As we explored the ruins, our guide shared stories of the island’s past, bringing its history to life. The island’s beauty and poignant history made this a fitting conclusion to our day.

Conclusion

This fully customizable private tour offered a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the ancient sites and traditional villages to the vibrant city life and serene beaches, every stop provided a unique glimpse into the essence of East Crete. The luxurious, air-conditioned vehicle and the knowledgeable guide ensured a comfortable and insightful journey. This tour was an unforgettable exploration, highlighting the diverse and captivating allure of Crete.