We spend a week on the largest and, some would say, the most beautiful of the Greek islands for a fusion of flowers, birds and wildlife at one of the best times of year for them.
Crete is the largest, and to many the most spectacular of the Greek Isles. It is a truly rugged land, with a chain of mountains rising to nearly 2,500m, which at this time of year form a spectacular snow-capped backdrop almost wherever we go. Many of the mountains are formed of limestone and dolomite, with high plateaux cut by deep gorges. The geology and isolation from the mainland have given Crete a unique and diverse flora, with no less than a tenth of its plants (180 + species!) endemic to the island - the greatest proportion of endemic plants on any island in Europe. In addition, the history of the island, from the times of the earliest European civilisation onwards, is fascinating, and Knossos, the original 'labyrinth', is a most intriguing relic of rich Minoan culture.
Although birds are never really numerous on Crete, as it is off the main migration routes, the range of species here can be diverse and unpredictable, and the close views of some of the migrants can be stunning. We are based for most of the holiday at a pleasant hotel on the coast near Chania, with good birdwatching nearby. The west of Crete is probably the wildest and most spectacular part of the island, and we are strategically placed for trips to the best sites, especially some of the wetlands.
| Outline Itinerary |
| Day 1 | We take a direct flight from London to Heraklion, and drive west to Chania, arriving at our hotel in the evening.
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| Days 2-6 | We'll spend the first day exploring the area near Chania along the coast. Just to the east of Chania is the Akrotiri Peninsula, an attractive area of olive groves, scrubby hillsides, and quiet monasteries.
On one day we'll head high into the mountains, up through some of Crete's most spectacular scenery to the Omalos plateau. On another day we turn south towards the Minoan Cemetery at Armeni, and on towards the hills above Plakias.
Once again we are timing our visit to coincide with
Six nights Chania. |
| Day 7 | We make an early start back to Heraklion today to give ourselves time for a visit to the amazing historical site of Knossos.
Overnight Heraklion. |
| Day 8 | We have time for a last look at the saltmarshes in the morning before returning to Heraklion airport for our flight home.
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Price: £ 1,545
Single supp.: £ 155
Deposit: £ 300 per person
The price per person includes return flights from London - Heraklion*, airport taxes, accommodation, all meals, incidental tips, coach transport and the services of the leaders.
The price excludes holiday insurance, an optional tip to the driver, drinks, and other personal expenses.
*For an ex-flight cost of the tour (Heraklion/Heraklion) please deduct £ 195 per person from the tour cost.
Please note that it may be possible for clients to fly direct from Manchester. Please enquire for details and supplement.
We can also arrange for a week's extra hotel accommodation and car hire for those wishing to extend their stay.
Accommodation: We stay in two good quality hotels, with all rooms en suite.
Principal Leader: Liz Charter
Numbers: Max. 14 clients
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