Discover the picturesque harbor of Chania with its historic architecture and quaint shops. Relax by the crystal-clear waters of Lake Kournas and take a refreshing swim in its cool waters. Stroll through the charming streets of Rethymnon and admire the Venetian architecture while enjoying your coffee in the magnificent harbor.
11 hours approx. (500km)
From Agia Pelagia to Malia
This excursion brings us to West Crete and our first stop in Chania, the most ravishing city of Crete. It was an important Minoan city and the mother of the Cretan cities”, according to ancient writers. The city is divided in the Old City, with the gorgeous harbor and the New City, beyond its Venetian fortifications. The Old City is one of the most beautiful cities in the Mediterranean and is called “Venice of the East”. We can admire samples of all the civilizations that have passed from here: archaeological Minoan sites, Turkish minarets and mosques, Muslim neighborhoods, Venetian fortresses, dockyards, fountains, squares, arches, mansions, Loggia and the Lighthouse of Chania.
Leaving this extraordinary city, we arrive at the quaint Lake Kournas, a beautiful habitat with natural freshwater, one of a kind on Crete. Lush greenery, steep cavities between hills, rare species of fish and birds, like eels, moorhens and two-color turtles, make Kournas the ideal place to enjoy a swim before our lunch or an early afternoon walk. The whole area of Kournas is protected under Natura 2000, as it has been a designated wetland. We recommend bringing a swimsuit and sun protection to fully enjoy the water and the sun. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring shoes suitable for the sea, especially if you plan on walking in the shallow areas. However, please note that these items are optional and not required for the excursion.”
Going back, we stop in Rethimnon, the third biggest town on Crete, where monuments of the archaeological, Ottoman and Venetian eras coexist, in an extremely interesting way. Have a stroll in the alleys of the old town, visit the Turkish minarets like Neratze Mosque and the Venetian fortresses or just enjoy your coffee in the magnificent harbor.
