Full day tour to Arkadi-Margarites-Sfendoni Cave-Axos

9 Hours Round trip from Pickup service provided in Rethimno. Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Visit the historic Arkadi Monastery
  • 02 Enjoy mountain and countryside views near Eleutherna
  • 03 Discover the pottery tradition of Margarites village
  • 04 Explore the illuminated chambers of Sfendoni Cave
  • 05 See striking stalactites and stalagmites inside the cave
  • 06 Experience local cheese-making in Axos Village
  • 07 Taste fresh traditional handmade snacks
  • 08 Full-day cultural tour through inland Crete

Discover a different side of Crete on this full-day journey through the mountains of Rethymnon, where history, craftsmanship, nature, and village life come together in one memorable experience. Visit the historic Arkadi Monastery, admire the scenery around Eleutherna, and explore Margarites, a village known for its long pottery tradition.

Continue to the impressive Sfendoni Cave to see its illuminated chambers, stalactites, and stalagmites, then head to Axos Village for a hands-on glimpse into local cheese-making traditions. With scenic drives, cultural encounters, and traditional snacks along the way, this tour offers an authentic taste of inland Crete.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 9 Hours
Tour type Shared
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Not included
Transport Not included
Wheelchair access No
City Rethimnon
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

After you will be picked off in the morning from your hotel in Rethymnon, this unique village tour begins from Arkadi. There you will visit the historic Arkadi Monastery, renowned for its pivotal role in the resistance against the Turks. You will learn a lot about local history from the icons and the weapons there.After this enriching visit, you will enjoy a majestic route towards Eleutherna where you will stop to glaze the landscape and enjoy the view.The next station will be the village of Margarites, in which you can learn about the art of pottery and create your own ceramic in their local pottery workshop. The tradition of pottery goes back many generations in this village and the ladies there will be more than happy to initiate you to the Cretan pottery art.

Sfendoni Cave

Afterward, discover the breathtaking beauty of Sfendoni Cave, one of Crete’s hidden gems! Located near the traditional village of Zoniana, this impressive cave stretches over 1,400 meters and offers a magical journey through illuminated chambers filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Guided tours reveal the cave’s fascinating geological formations and legends, making it a must-visit destination for nature and adventure lovers alike. You will have an hour to explore the cave.

Before heading back to Rethymnon, you will stop at Axos Village, where you will have the chance to experience firsthand the production process of fresh cheese. Along with the local people you can take part in the milking process, witness the production of local cheese pies and cheese and of course taste the fresh traditional handmade snacks.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Pickup service provided in Rethimno. 1 city · 9 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Snacks
  • Air-conditioned vehicle

What's Not Included

  • entrance fees

Know before you go

  • ANIMALS OR PETS ALLOWED
  • PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION NEARBY
  • INFANTS MUST SIT ON LAPS
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Not stroller accessible
  • Infant seats unavailable
  • Travel time is included in the total tour duration

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Pickup service provided in Rethimno.
Tour start
Pickup service provided in Rethimno.
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 9 hours finish where they began, in Pickup service provided in Rethimno..

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