From Rethymno: Arkadi, Margarites, Sfendoni Cave, and Axos

Exploring Crete’s Hidden Gems: From Rethymno to Arkadi, Margarites, Sfendoni Cave, and Axos

If you’re after a day packed with authentic Crete experiences, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of the island’s rich history, vibrant arts, and delicious local products. While not perfect, it provides a meaningful insight into local life and stunning scenery, all at a reasonable price.

The three things we really appreciate about this experience are its variety of stops, the knowledgeable guides who bring each site to life, and the chance to sample traditional Cretan flavors along the way. The only caveat? The transport might feel a bit dated, and some guests mention the lunch could be more satisfying.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a culture in Crete, especially those who enjoy history, handmade crafts, and scenic landscapes without the hassle of planning. It’s perfect if you want a full day of sightseeing balanced with local interactions, and are comfortable with a group setting.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic Experiences: Visit historic sites, craft workshops, and local villages for a genuine taste of Crete.
• Full-Day Itinerary: Covers major highlights in a manageable 8-hour trip, including some walking and exploring.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides are praised for their friendliness and ability to share interesting facts.
• Cost-Effective: At around $48, it offers good value considering transportation, entrance fees, snacks, and activities.
• Limited Flexibility: The schedule is fixed with pre-set stops, so spontaneity is limited.
• Mixed Reviews on Comfort: The bus may feel a bit old or less clean, but drivers handle winding roads skillfully.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Convenient Hotel Pickup and Transport

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Rethymno, which is a huge plus for hassle-free travel. Transportation is via bus, which, based on reviews, might be a bit rustic. One guest mentioned that the coach was “old and too big for a small group,” suggesting a more intimate experience could have been more comfortable. However, the driver’s skill in handling narrow, winding mountain roads is noted as a highlight, so travel sickness pills might be worth considering if you’re prone to car sickness.

Arkadi Monastery: A Historic Heartbeat

Your first stop is the famous Arkadi Monastery, an iconic symbol of resistance against the Turks. The monastery’s role in Cretan history is palpable, with relics, icons, and weapons that tell stories of perseverance and rebellion. Visitors often find the atmosphere moving, especially when learning about the monastery’s wartime sacrifices. A guide’s commentary, like that of Helen, a pottery artist-turned-guide, enriches the visit—she’s praised for her friendly, informative approach.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Scenic Drive to Eleutherna

After absorbing history, the tour takes you on a scenic route toward Eleutherna, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the landscape. Though not a formal stop, this drive offers plenty of chances for photos and taking in the rugged beauty of the Cretan mountains.

Margarites: The Village of Pottery

Next is Margarites, a village famous for its tradition of pottery. Here, you’ll get to try your hand at ceramics in a local workshop, which is a real highlight for many travelers. The craft has been handed down for generations, and the women leading the workshops are eager to share their skills—making it a personal, hands-on experience. Reviewers mention that the pottery lessons are fun, with one describing the process as “making it look easy,” and it’s a wonderful way to connect with local artisans.

Sfendoni Cave: Nature’s Marvel

The Sfendoni Cave is often described as the tour’s most magical stop. Stretching over 1,400 meters, it features illuminated chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites that appear almost otherworldly. The guided tour provides geological insights and legends, making it appealing for both nature lovers and adventure seekers. Guests note that the cave’s atmosphere is quite special, with some saying the “magical journey” is worth the hour-long exploration.

Axos Village: Cheese, Nature, and Local Flavors

Before heading back to Rethymno, the group visits Axos Village, a charming spot to witness traditional cheese-making. Here, you might participate in milking goats—a memorable experience praised in reviews—and enjoy tasting fresh cheese and cheese pies. The experience is relaxed, with guides showcasing the cheese production process, adding authenticity and flavor to your day. Guests appreciated the opportunity to sample handmade snacks, with some mentioning the set meal at lunch was “delicious and good value,” though a few felt it could be more substantial.

Return and Reflection

The tour concludes with a comfortable drop-off at your hotel, leaving you with a well-rounded impression of Crete’s history, arts, and tastes. It’s a day that balances sightseeing, hands-on activities, and local interactions, offering a genuine peek into island life.

Practical Considerations

Price and Value

At $48 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering transportation, entrance fees (for Sfendoni Cave and the monastery), and the included snacks. The price is especially fair when factoring in the guided insights and authentic experiences. However, some guests felt the lunch could be improved, suggesting you might want to bring extra snacks if you’re hungry.

Group Size and Atmosphere

While the tour is designed for convenience, reviews hint that the group size can vary. The small bus may feel a bit cramped during long drives, but the guides’ enthusiasm tends to compensate for that. The personalized interactions, especially during pottery and cheese-making, add a warm touch.

Timing and Pacing

With a full 8-hour duration, the schedule is packed but not rushed. The stops are well-spaced, giving enough time to explore and enjoy without feeling hurried. Keep in mind the winding mountain roads may cause travel sickness for some, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a balanced taste of history, craftsmanship, and nature. It’s perfect if you enjoy learning about local traditions, taking part in hands-on activities like pottery and cheese-making, and exploring scenic landscapes. Those looking for a relaxed pace with guided commentary will find this a rewarding day.

It’s less ideal for travelers seeking intense adventure or those who prefer freeform exploration, as the trip is quite structured. Also, if comfort during transport is a priority, you might find the bus a bit dated, but this does not significantly detract from the overall experience.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel time and stops.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Rethymno.

What is the cost?
The tour costs around $48 per person, which covers transportation, entrance fees for the cave and monastery, and snacks.

Are there any additional costs?
You’ll need to pay for entrance fees for Sfendoni Cave ($5) and Arkadi Monastery ($4), which are not included in the ticket price.

Can I participate in the pottery and cheese-making activities?
Yes, part of the tour involves a pottery lesson and participating in cheese production, which are highlighted as engaging experiences.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, a hat or sunglasses for the outdoor stops, and optional snacks if you think you’ll need more than the provided ones.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most likely, as the activities are interactive, but consider the group size and pace. The winding roads may not be ideal for very young children.

How is the guide?
Guests praise the guides for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make each site interesting, with Helen the pottery guide often highlighted.

Can I customize or skip parts of the tour?
This is a fixed itinerary, so customization isn’t typically offered. However, the stops are spaced to allow sufficient exploration.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid introduction to Crete’s cultural soul—from historic monasteries to artisan crafts and stunning caves—delivered at an accessible price point. While the transport might feel a bit rustic and lunch could be more substantial, the overall value lies in the authentic experiences and beautiful scenery.

It’s well-suited for curious travelers eager to see a side of Crete that isn’t just about beaches, but about connection to local history, arts, and flavors. If you appreciate guided insights and a manageable day of discovery, this could be a highlight of your Crete trip.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Ready to explore Crete’s unique charm? This tour provides a well-rounded experience for those wanting to combine history, art, and nature, all while savoring local tastes and making memorable connections.