WHY WE LOVE IT

The best way to experience the oldest monasteries in Crete and immersing yourself in Cretan nature and authentic Cretan life.

Activity Description

A unique private tour with wonderful scenery as well as a real insight into traditional Cretan life. Your local guide will meet you at your preferred location within the Chania town region. Your private daytrip will start by heading towards the peninsula of Akrotiri. We will first visit the Gouverneto monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Crete that looks like a Venetian fortress. Marvel at its magnificent architecture, its church with artifacts and woodcrafts before we start the descending trek

Walking down the footpath from Gouveneto monastery through the Avlaki Gorge, in a wild and beautiful landscape, we will come across the ruined Katholiko Monastery and the cave of St John the Hermit. Please note that this is an easy 40 min descending path that we will have to walk up again (it is more demanding on the way up).You will then visit the monastery of Agios Georgios in Karydi village with scenic views to the White mountains.

Our next destination is the the Agia Triada monastery, built in the 17th century with Byzantine-style architecture on the orders of a Venetian family. It has exceptionally beautiful gardens and in its museum, you can admire important religious icons and a rich collection of codices. The monastery continues to operate today and its monks are engaged in the production of wine and olive oil that you are very welcome to try and buy if you wish. Going through local fields with plantations we will next reach the beach where you will have plenty of time to enjoy a swim. Stavros beach offers sunbeds and umbrella amenities and it is generally sheltered from the wind therefore making it perfect for swimming and especially safe for children.

Special Features

• Unique and authentic villages of Crete off-the beaten path

• Real Cretan lifestyle by meeting and interacting with locals

• Best of local gastronomy

• Warm and knowledgeable local insider host

• Private transfers and itinerary tailored to your schedule and pace

Activity Snapshot

Dates | Start Time: Daily upon request, subject to 2 days notice Recommended Time 8:30

Duration: 8 hours (approx)

Meeting Point: Chania town (pickup upon arrangement)

Group Size: This is a private tour. For larger groups, get a quote here. 

Pace: Easy

Spoken Language: English, Spanish, French upon request

Included: Private sightseeing tour with a local insider guide, transfer with an AC car/van, food and drinks as described

Excluded: Anything else not mentioned as included

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations min. 48 hours before the tour: full refund. Cancellations less than 48 hours before the tour: 50% refund. No show: No refund.

Additional Info

• Tour requires at least 2 days notice for higher chances of availability

• Confirmation to be received as soon as possible (within 24 hours from booking)

• You can present either a print out or an electronic booking confirmation for this activity

• Complete information on Vendor, including local telephone numbers at your destination, will be sent with your Booking Confirmation. The TravelPorter hand-picks the most remarkable, experienced and reliable vetted professionals for a pleasant experience from booking to completion.

Pair this walking tour with more unique experiences in Chania Crete