Crete: Day Trip to Sfakiá, Plakias and Kourtaliotiko Gorge

Crete’s stunning southern landscapes come alive on this day trip to Sfakiá, Plakias, and Kourtaliotiko Gorge. Travelers can enjoy the island’s rich history and natural beauty, from the picturesque village of Chora Sfakion to the breathtaking beaches of Plakias. Along the way, they’ll enjoy a scenic drive through the White Mountains and Askifou Plateau, leading to the impressive Kourtaliotiko Gorge. With convenient hotel pickup, an expert guide, and a delicious lunch included, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to discover the hidden gems of Crete.

Key Points

• Explore the historical village of Chora Sfakion, a former rebel stronghold, and enjoy the scenic drive through the White Mountains and Askifou Plateau.
• Relax and swim at the picturesque village of Plakias, showcasing the charming ambiance of southern Crete.
• Experience the breathtaking vistas of the Kourtaliotiko Gorge on the return trip.
• The 8-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a live German-speaking guide, and a provided lunch.
• The tour offers a flexible, comfortable experience focused on experiencing the diverse landscapes of southern Crete.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This day trip to Sfakiá, Plakias, and Kourtaliotiko Gorge is priced at Kč 1,376 per person and lasts 8 hours.

It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can also reserve now and pay later.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a live German-speaking guide, and lunch.

Comfortable shoes, swimwear, and sunscreen are recommended.

Be prepared for the rugged Cretan landscape with comfortable shoes, swimwear, and sun protection.

While personal expenses aren’t included, the tour is wheelchair accessible, providing a flexible and inclusive experience in the rugged Cretan landscape.

Itinerary Highlights

The day trip kicks off with hotel pickup, allowing guests to be whisked away to the historical village of Chora Sfakion. Here, they’ll have the chance to explore the charming streets and soak in the rich history of this former rebel stronghold.

Next, the journey continues to the picturesque village of Plakias, where travelers can relax and swim in the crystal-clear waters.

The scenic drive through the White Mountains and Askifou Plateau offers breathtaking vistas, including views of the southernmost island of Europe, Gavdos.

Finally, the tour passes by the impressive Kourtaliotiko Gorge on the return trip.

• Visit Chora Sfakion, a historical village

• Relax and swim at Plakias village

• Scenic drive through the White Mountains and Askifou Plateau

• Pass by Kourtaliotiko Gorge on the return trip

Activity Details

Although the tour is flexible and doesn’t require upfront payment, a live tour guide speaking German is available to accompany participants.

Comfortable shoes, swimwear, and sunscreen are recommended for this day trip. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so travelers can focus on experiencing the breathtaking scenery.

Participants should be ready 5-10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time. A wheelchair accessible option is also available, making the tour accessible to a wider audience.

With no rigid schedule, travelers can enjoy a flexible and personalized experience on this day trip.

Experience and Scenery

Rugged mountainous regions and fertile plateaus unfold before visitors as they embark on this day trip, offering a captivating glimpse into the diverse landscapes of southern Crete.

Breathtaking vistas showcase the region’s natural beauty, with views of the southernmost island of Europe, Gavdos, in the distance. The rich history of Chora Sfakion, a former rebel stronghold, adds cultural depth to the experience.

Highlights include:

1. Exploring the dramatic White Mountains and Askifou Plateau

2. Admiring the stunning Kourtaliotiko Gorge

3. Relaxing and swimming at the picturesque Plakias village

4. Taking in the charming ambiance of historic Chora Sfakion.

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Inclusions and Requirements

This day trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an experienced guide, and a provided lunch.

Participants must be ready 5-10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time. A wheelchair accessible option is available for those who need it.

Personal expenses like souvenirs or additional food and drinks aren’t included in the tour price. The tour is suitable for most fitness levels, but comfortable shoes, swimwear, and sunscreen are recommended.

Visiting Chora Sfakion

As the tour makes its way to Sfakiá, travelers will encounter Chora Sfakion, a historical village nestled along the coast.

This former rebel stronghold offers a glimpse into Crete’s rich history:

1. Explore the narrow streets and whitewashed buildings that reflect the traditional Cretan architecture.

2. Visit the 14th-century Venetian fortress, which served as a strategic point during Ottoman rule.

3. Witness the local fishing harbor, where small boats dock and fishermen mend their nets.

4. Admire the stunning views of the Libyan Sea and the rugged mountains that surround the village.

Relaxing at Plakias Village

After exploring the historic Chora Sfakion, the tour makes its way to the tranquil village of Plakias.

Situated along the rugged southern coast, Plakias offers a chance to relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun. Visitors can stroll the seaside promenade, admiring the picturesque harbor and charming tavernas.

The broad, sandy beach provides ample opportunity for swimming, sunbathing, and simply taking in the stunning views. With its laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals, Plakias is a perfect respite from the day’s earlier explorations.

Travelers can recharge before continuing on to the dramatic Kourtaliotiko Gorge.

Exploring Kourtaliotiko Gorge

On the return trip, the tour makes a stop at the dramatic Kourtaliotiko Gorge.

The group explores this natural wonder formed by the Kourtaliotis River over millions of years.

The gorge features:

Towering limestone cliffs, lush vegetation, and a scenic footpath along the riverbed, leading to a small waterfall.

1. Towering limestone cliffs reaching up to 600 meters high.

2. Lush vegetation and diverse flora and fauna.

3. A scenic footpath along the riverbed, leading to a small waterfall.

4. Opportunities to spot rare birds and spot endemic plant species.

This hidden gem offers a peaceful conclusion to the day’s adventures, surrounded by Crete’s stunning natural beauty.

Since You Asked

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The group size for this tour is not explicitly mentioned in the provided information. The tour offers flexibility, with no upfront payment required and the ability to reserve now and pay later.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a lunch is included in the tour price, so bringing your own meal is not required.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration, but travelers can choose to explore the areas further on their own after the scheduled 8-hour tour. This allows for more flexibility in their day’s activities.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

No special equipment is needed, but comfortable shoes, swimwear, and sunscreen are recommended. The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, a guide, and lunch, so participants don’t need to bring much beyond personal items.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Participants of all ages are welcome to join. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for families and individuals alike.

Final Words

The Crete day trip to Sfakiá, Plakias, and Kourtaliotiko Gorge offers a chance to take in the island’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes. From the picturesque village of Chora Sfakion to the serene beaches of Plakias and the captivating Kourtaliotiko Gorge, this tour showcases the breadth of Crete’s cultural and natural wonders. With convenient transportation and an expert guide, it’s an ideal way to explore the southern region of this enchanting Mediterranean island.

You can check availability for your dates here: