All Day Family Tour to Rethymno & Kournas Lake | JMP Tours

Exploring Crete’s Charm: A Detailed Look at the All Day Family Tour to Rethymno & Kournas Lake

If you’re seeking a well-rounded day trip that combines the historic allure of Crete’s old towns with the natural beauty of its lakes, this private tour to Rethymno and Kournas Lake could be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact journey, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it’s an experience that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and local flavor.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the personalized private group setting promises a comfortable and tailored experience. Second, the insightful guides seem to bring the destinations alive with engaging commentary. Third, the inclusion of scenic stops at both historic and natural sites offers a well-rounded glimpse of Crete’s diversity. One potential consideration is the price point of $338 for a group of up to six — which might seem high, but given the private nature, transportation, and flexibility, it could be a worthwhile investment for families or small groups seeking a hassle-free day.

This tour suits travelers who want a customized, informative experience with a focus on comfort and local insights. Families, small groups, or couples eager to explore beyond the typical tourist spots will find plenty to love here.

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Key Points

Private, flexible experience tailored to your needs
Well-paced itinerary combining history and nature
Knowledgeable guides enhancing the storytelling
Comfortable transportation in luxury air-conditioned vehicles
Scenic stops with opportunities for photos, walks, and relaxation
Good value for a personalized full-day tour

You can check availability for your dates here:

This experience made our article of Chania’s 11 Best Full-Day Tours (With Prices & Reviews).

What to Expect from the Full-Day Crete Adventure

This tour packs a lot into one day, running approximately 8 hours from pick-up to drop-off. Starting early in the morning, it’s designed to give you a comprehensive taste of Crete’s cultural and natural highlights without feeling rushed.

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The Journey Begins: Chania Pick-up and Scenic Drive

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Chania around 9:00 am, followed by a short 50-minute drive in a luxury air-conditioned vehicle. Along the way, your driver might stop for a coffee break — a nice touch to stretch your legs and settle in before the sightseeing begins.

Exploring Rethymno Old Town

By approximately 9:30 am, you’ll arrive in Rethymno’s Old Town, a delight for history lovers and photographers alike. This area is a maze of narrow, winding streets filled with Venetian and Ottoman architecture, creating a tangible sense of stepping back in time.

Key sights include the Venetian Loggia, a beautifully preserved building that once housed the town council, and the Rimondi Fountain, a charming spot where locals have gathered for centuries. You’ll have around three hours to wander at your own pace, exploring picturesque squares, boutique shops, and cafes. Several reviewers have mentioned how the guides help bring the history alive, sharing stories about the architecture and the town’s layered past.

Midday: Journey to Kournas Lake

Around noon, the group departs Rethymno for Kournas Lake, approximately a 25-minute drive. This freshwater lake is the only one of its kind on the island, offering a peaceful escape from the busier coastal areas.

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The Magic of Kournas Lake

Once at Kournas, you’re greeted with the sight of crystal-clear turquoise waters reflecting the surrounding hills, olive groves, and lush vegetation. The scenery alone makes this a trip highlight. As one reviewer pointed out, the views here are stunning and perfect for photos.

The area around the lake features several walking trails through meadows, olive groves, and hills. These paths allow for serene strolls and panoramic viewpoints—ideal spots for snapping memorable photos or just soaking in the quiet beauty. Some paths lead to elevated viewpoints offering sweeping vistas of the lake and the rolling landscape.

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Relaxation and Water Fun

With around 2.5 hours set aside at Kournas Lake, you can relax by the water or even take part in optional activities like water biking — a favorite tip from travelers who appreciated the flexibility. Reviewers mention that bringing your swimwear and towels is wise, as you’ll likely want to dip into the cool waters. While there is a fee for sunbeds, lounging under an umbrella with bottled water included in the tour makes for a restful break.

Returning Journey

The day wraps up with a return to Chania around 3:00 pm, with time to reflect on the day’s sights. The flexibility of the tour means your guide might suggest minor adjustments based on your interests or timing needs.

Transport, Comfort, and Practical Details

Traveling in a luxury vehicle with air conditioning ensures comfort during the drives, especially during hot Crete days. The groups are small (up to six), which enhances the personalized feel — your driver/guide, speaking both English and Greek, is often praised for making the experience informative and friendly.

The flexible stops are a key benefit, allowing you to spend more time at places you love or make quick detours en route. The tour includes essentials like bottled water and a beach umbrella — a thoughtful touch that adds value, especially on sunny days.

What’s Not Included

You should budget separately for lunch, drinks, and sunbed fees at the lake if you want additional comfort while relaxing on the beach. Having your own snacks and water is advisable, though the tour provides bottled water, which helps keep you hydrated.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Multiple guests emphasize the knowledge and friendliness of guides — with one reviewer noting, “the driver was very pleasant and explained all interesting spots.” Others loved the chance to explore hidden gems like the Venetian Loggia and Rimondi Fountain, providing a richer sense of Rethymno’s layered history.

At Kournas Lake, visitors appreciated the stunning scenery and tranquil atmosphere, with some saying it was the highlight of their trip. The option to jump into the lake or rent a water bike adds a playful element that families, in particular, value.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This private tour is ideal for families or small groups who want a comfortable, personalized experience without the stress of planning every detail. It suits travelers interested in a mix of culture, history, and nature, especially those who enjoy scenic landscapes and authentic local spots. If you’re after a relaxed but comprehensive day exploring Crete’s highlights, this tour hits the mark.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

Given the personalized service, the flexibility, and the chance to explore both historic and natural sites, this tour offers solid value. The small group size and knowledgeable guides mean you’re not just another passenger; you’re a guest with a tailored experience. The price reflects the comfort and exclusivity, making it a good choice for travelers looking for quality over quantity.

If you’re keen on discovering how Crete’s history and landscapes intertwine, and want to do it comfortably in a private vehicle, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s particularly perfect for those who appreciate storytelling, scenic views, and a relaxed pace.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, starting around 9:00 am with hotel pickup and ending around 3:00 pm back at your hotel.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups of up to 6 people, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers hotel pickup and drop-off, luxury air-conditioned transport, bottled water, and a beach umbrella. It also allows for flexible stops.

Are food and drinks included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included. You should bring your own or plan to purchase something at stops.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and perhaps some snacks or extra water for the day.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour offers possible diversions or alterations based on your preferences, just mention this when booking.

How scenic is Kournas Lake?
The lake’s turquoise waters reflecting lush greenery and hills make it a picture-perfect spot for photos and relaxation.

Are there opportunities for water activities?
Yes, water biking or swimming in the lake are popular options; note that fees may apply for sunbeds or water bikes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, especially since there’s time for water fun and relaxing walks, making it family-friendly.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its private setting, the knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and flexible schedule create a personalized and authentic experience.

To sum it up, this private full-day tour to Rethymno and Kournas Lake balances sightseeing, natural beauty, and comfort with a personal touch. It’s best suited for those who want a stress-free day with tailored stops, insightful guides, and the chance to experience Crete beyond the typical tourist trail. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or family seeking fun, this trip offers a well-rounded slice of what makes Crete special.