From Rethymno: Arkadi, Melidoni, and MargaritesTourEXCLUSIVE

Tucked away in the heart of Crete, the "From Rethymno: Arkadi, Melidoni, and Margarites Tour" promises an immersive exploration of the island’s rich cultural heritage. Priced at just $38.23 per person, this exclusive 10-hour adventure unveils the charming pottery-making village of Margarites, the captivating Neolithic history of Melidoni Cave, and the stunning 16th-century Arkadi Monastery. With air-conditioned transportation, live guides, and a traditional lunch, the tour offers a unique opportunity to discover Rethymno’s hidden gems. What secrets might these ancient sites hold?

Key Points

• This 10-hour tour from Rethymno explores the pottery-making village of Margarites, Melidoni Cave, and Arkadi Monastery, with a traditional lunch and live music included.
• The tour provides air-conditioned bus transportation with pickup from Grand Rimondi and Hotel IDEON, with an additional charge for guests from Georgioupolis and Kavros area.
• Knowledgeable English and German-speaking guides offer in-depth insights into the history and culture of the visited sites, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience.
• Travelers are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring sunglasses and sun hats, and check email for specific pickup details, including meeting point and time.
• The tour has a price of $38.23 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the picturesque region of Rethymno, Crete. Priced at just $38.23 per person, the 10-hour excursion takes visitors to charming villages, historic monasteries, and natural wonders.

Explore the pottery-making hub of Margarites, explore the Melidoni Cave’s Neolithic history, and discover the 16th-century Arkadi Monastery.

Discover the pottery-making village of Margarites, Melidoni Cave’s Neolithic past, and the historic Arkadi Monastery.

Stop at an old olive oil mill and enjoy a traditional lunch accompanied by live music.

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation with pickup from select locations. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and travelers can reserve their spot and pay later.

Itinerary Highlights

As visitors embark on this captivating tour, they’ll first explore the charming village of Margarites, known for its rich pottery-making tradition.

Next, they’ll venture into the Melidoni Cave, uncovering the Neolithic history that lies within.

The tour then takes them to the iconic Arkadi Monastery, the oldest in Crete, dating back to the 16th century.

Along the way, they’ll stop at an old olive oil mill in Apostoli and enjoy a traditional lunch with live music at a family-run tavern.

The tour also includes a visit to the scenic St. Antonios Gorge and Fragma Potamon dam.

Transportation and Pickup Details

The tour provides pickup service from two convenient locations – Grand Rimondi (Opap shop, Stavromenos) and Hotel IDEON (national garden bus stop).

Guests will be picked up at least 5 minutes before the scheduled departure time in an air-conditioned bus.

For those staying in the Georgioupolis and Kavros area, there’s an extra charge of €18 per booking.

The bus transportation ensures a comfortable and hassle-free experience throughout the tour.

Travelers are advised to check their email for the specific pickup details to avoid any confusion or delays.

Tour Guide and Languages

The tour offers live tour guides available in both English and German, ensuring an engaging and informative experience for all guests.

The guides are knowledgeable and passionate, providing in-depth insights into the history, culture, and significance of the sites visited.

The guides are knowledgeable and passionate, providing in-depth insights into the history, culture, and significance of the sites visited.

Guests can expect:

• Fluent English and German-speaking guides

• Personalized attention and interactive discussions

• Seamless navigation through the itinerary

• Answers to any questions or queries

• An immersive and authentic tour experience

With these multilingual tour guides, travelers can fully appreciate the rich heritage and captivating stories of Rethymno’s Arkadi, Melidoni, and Margarites.

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Traveler Recommendations and Important Information

What should travelers bring and be aware of for this tour? Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the historic sites and villages.

Sunglasses and a sun hat will provide protection from the Mediterranean sun. Pets and oversized luggage aren’t permitted. Smoking is also prohibited during the tour.

Travelers should check their email for pickup details, including the meeting point and time, to avoid any delays. The tour company recommends checking the spam folder in case the pickup information ends up there.

With these essentials covered, travelers can focus on seeing the rich cultural experiences awaiting them.

Exploring the Village of Margarites

After exploring the historic sites and learning about Crete’s cultural heritage, the tour ventures into the charming village of Margarites.

Known for its traditional pottery, the village offers a glimpse into the island’s artisanal heritage.

Visitors can:

• Admire the intricate designs and techniques of local potters

• Browse the vibrant shops and galleries showcasing handmade ceramics

• Observe the potters at work, shaping clay into functional and decorative pieces

• Learn about the history and significance of Margarites’ pottery-making traditions

• Immerse themselves in the quaint, picturesque atmosphere of the village.

Uncovering the Melidoni Cave’s Neolithic History

Leaving the quaint village of Margarites behind, the tour group next ventures into the captivating Melidoni Cave, where they’ll uncover the Neolithic history that lies within.

The cave’s vast chambers reveal ancient cave drawings and artifacts, transporting visitors back thousands of years. Guests learn about the cave’s significance as a sacred space for Minoan civilization, and the dramatic history of the 1824 massacre that occurred here.

Exploring the eerie, echoing chambers, the group is awed by the cave’s geological wonders and the glimpse it provides into the lives of its Neolithic inhabitants.

Discovering the Arkadi Monastery’s Rich Heritage

Next, the group eagerly journeys to the Arkadi Monastery, one of Crete’s most renowned historical sites. Dating back to the 16th century, this ancient sanctuary offers a window into Crete’s storied past.

Visitors explore the monastery’s exquisite architecture, adorned with intricate frescoes and Byzantine-style details. The group learns about the monastery’s pivotal role in the island’s struggle for independence, including its defiant stand against Ottoman occupation.

Key highlights include:

• Iconic bell tower and defensive walls

• Ornate Catholic church with striking iconostasis

• Dramatic history as a fortress during the Cretan Revolt

• Picturesque setting amidst rolling hills and olive groves

• Opportunity to immerse in Crete’s rich cultural heritage

Things To Know

Is Food Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price includes a lunch at a family-run tavern where guests can enjoy live traditional music. The description mentions this as one of the highlights of the itinerary.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour details clearly state that pets are not permitted. Bringing a pet would not be allowed, as the tour does not accommodate them.

What Is the Group Size for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t allow pets. The group size isn’t specified, but the tour takes place in an air-conditioned bus, suggesting a small to medium-sized group for a personalized experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for the Tour?

The tour does not offer any discounts, but travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy and reserve their spot without paying anything upfront. Prices start at $38.23 per person for the 10-hour excursion.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead?

Yes, you can request a private tour instead. The tour operator offers private tours for an additional charge, allowing you to customize the experience to your preferences and enjoy a more intimate sightseeing adventure.

Sum Up

This thrilling tour through Rethymno’s cultural gems offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Crete’s rich history and artistry. From the captivating pottery-making village of Margarites to the awe-inspiring Arkadi Monastery, this exclusive experience promises an unforgettable journey, complemented by a traditional lunch and expert English and German-speaking guides. It’s a must-do for anyone seeking to uncover the hidden treasures of this enchanting region.

You can check availability for your dates here: