We love —
- Cruising across the dazzling Mirabello Gulf, swimming in crystal-clear bays and snorkelling in secluded coves only accessible by boat.
- Experiencing the warmth of Cretan traditions at a lively Olive Festival, celebrating the island's most treasured ingredient through authentic local flavours.
- Strolling through the peaceful fishing village of Sissi, where waterfront tavernas, colourful boats and a relaxed atmosphere capture the essence of Crete.
Customer reviews —
A first glimpse of your holiday —
Welcome to Crete —
Escape to the charming seaside village of Sissi, where Crete reveals its most authentic side. Framed by rugged hills and the sparkling Mediterranean, this peaceful corner of the island invites you to embrace a slower pace of life, wandering through picturesque harbours, discovering timeless traditions and soaking up the warmth of Cretan hospitality.
To enrich your stay, enjoy a collection of carefully selected experiences included according to the length of your holiday. Cruise across the crystal-clear waters of the Mirabello Gulf, admiring dramatic coastlines and hidden coves, or immerse yourself in local culture at a traditional Olive Festival, where the island's rich culinary heritage comes to life through tastings, music and age-old customs.
Cruise on Mirabello Bay (included for all stays until 31/08 and for stays of 6 nights or more from 01/09) —
Enjoy a day cruise on Mirabello Bay, taking in breathtaking scenery and time set aside for a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, all accompanied by music from the on-board DJ.
The day begins with a leisurely cruise along Mirabello Bay to Kolokytha Beach (around 1 hour). There, the boat will drop anchor and you can swim in the crystal-clear waters (around 1 hour 15 minutes).
You’ll then continue to a second hidden beach in Skistra Bay, the perfect spot for snorkelling, relaxing and enjoying a cocktail (around 1 hour 15 minutes).
At around 3.45 pm, you’ll be back at the port of Agios Nikolaos, where the coach will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.
Practical information:
Type of excursion: boat trip
Guided: no
Languages: English, French, German
Availability: May to October, Thursdays and Saturdays
Accessible to people with reduced mobility: no
Accessible to pregnant women: no
Recommended/minimum age: from 2 years old. Minors are the responsibility of the accompanying adults.
Duration: 7 hours
Timetable: departure at 10am – return at 5pm
Minimum number of people: 1
Maximum number of people: no limit
Transfers included: yes
Pick-up and drop-off point: at your hotel or a nearby meeting point
The price includes:
- Return transfers
- Ferry tickets
- Cocktail
The price does not include:
- Meals and drinks not mentioned under ‘The price includes’
- Any tips
- Personal expenses
- Anything not listed under ‘The price includes’
What to bring:
- Swimsuit, towel, hat, sunglasses
- Sun cream
- Camera
Important notes:
- The total duration of your activity and the departure/return times will depend on the location of your hotel.
- To take part in this activity, you must provide the full names of all participants, their dates of birth, nationalities, ages and genders, as well as their passport or ID card numbers, to the port authorities before the excursion.
- Water sports activities require all participants to be able to swim proficiently. They must be comfortable in the water and able to cope with occasional currents.
- Snorkelling equipment and various inflatable water toys are available on board.
- Fresh fruit is served, and those feeling peckish can order food on board.
Cancellation policy: Cancellation is free of charge up to 48 hours before the day of the excursion. Between 12 and 48 hours beforehand, a 50% cancellation fee applies. After this deadline (less than 12 hours beforehand or in the event of a no-show), no refund will be given, except in the case of a serious reason supported by an official document (e.g. a medical certificate).
Olive Tree Festival with live music and dinner (for stays of 7 nights or more) —
Spend a special evening with the Lyraki family, who invite you into the beautiful garden of their olive oil production facility. An evening not to be missed.
Itinerary:
You’ll have the chance to see how olive oil is made, a beekeeper will show you how the famous Cretan honey is still produced today, how olive oil soap is made and, of course, you’ll sample several wonderful Cretan wines… The evening will round off with a traditional meal prepared right before your eyes – one you’re sure to remember… . An evening during which you’ll also enjoy a traditional dance performance by Greek dancers.
Detailed programme:
- Activity begins at around 7.45 pm
- Introduction, demonstration of soap-making and the olive oil extraction process using various machines.
- 8.30 pm: Tasting session in the shop, followed by a buffet dinner cooked in a traditional oven
Examples of dishes on offer: Greek salads, fava, tapenades, olives, stuffed aubergines, dakos (bread with tomatoes and cheese), melt-in-the-mouth potatoes, meat dishes
- 9 pm: Dance performance, plate-throwing and Greek music. You may be invited to join in and dance!
- Evening ends around 11.00 pm
Practical information:
Type of tour: festive event
Guided: yes
Languages: French, English, German and Dutch
Availability: Thursdays, from May to October
Accessible to people with reduced mobility: yes
Accessible to pregnant women: yes
Minimum age: 1 year. Minors are the responsibility of the accompanying adults.
Activity times: 7.45 pm – 11 pm on site (+ transfers from your hotel)
The exact duration and times will be provided in the voucher sent by our partner.
Number of people on site: approximately 200 to 300
Transfers: yes, shared
Pick-up and drop-off point: from your hotel or nearby
The price includes:
- shared transfers
- a buffet dinner with a selection of traditional Greek dishes and drinks
- a tour of the olive grove in English
- wine tasting
The price does not include:
- Meals and drinks not mentioned under ‘The price includes’
- The services of an assistant on board the coach
- Any tips and personal expenses
- Anything not listed under ‘The price includes’
What to bring: comfortable shoes and a light jacket
Cancellation policy: Cancellation is free of charge up to 48 hours before the day of the excursion. Between 12 and 48 hours beforehand, a cancellation fee of 50% applies. After this deadline (less than 12 hours beforehand or in the event of a no-show), no refund will be given, except in the case of a serious reason supported by an official document (e.g. a medical certificate).
Esperides Resort & Spa 5* —
Just for you:
- 1st child aged 11 or under stays free when sharing a room with 2 paying adults
At the stunning and tranquil Esperides Resort & Spa 5*, enjoy a luxurious holiday that captures the classic Mediterranean atmosphere with a modern design. Mixing old-world charm and premium hospitality, Esperides Resort & Spa 5* hosts a range of stunning amenities from fine dining to wellness.There is no shortage of activities with which to relax and unwind, whether at the outdoor gym or hotel spa. Spend a day lounging by the pool or walking along the beautiful beaches of Crete.
Your room —
This offer is based on a choice between the accommodations listed below. Please note: The Signature rooms and suites are adult-only accommodations.
Elite Suite with outdoor Jacuzzi (38 m²)
The Elite Suite, with its earthy tones, wooden furniture, and unique artwork, offers a separate bedroom, a living area with a dining space and sofa bed, plus a terrace with a Jacuzzi for relaxing while enjoying the view.
Premium Inland View Room
The warm and inviting Premium Inland View Room provides a serene and cosy setting to spend your holiday with its simple yet chic furnishings, spa-like bathroom, modern amenities and private terrace or balcony.
Premium Inland View Room with private pool
Dive into your private pool when staying in this marvellous Premium Inland View Room, which also features plush furnishings, a spacious bathroom and first-class amenities.
Premium Sea View Room
Relax and unwind in the Premium Sea View Room and enjoy views of the sparkling Bay of Malia from the comfort of your furnished terrace.
Premium Sea View Room with outdoor Jacuzzi (25 m²)
The Premium Sea View Room with outdoor Jacuzzi is perfect for an upscale getaway. Enjoy its pastel tones with a magnificent sea view as a backdrop as you soak up the warm bubbles from your private Jacuzzi.
Your dining choices
This is a full board stay. Your breakfast, lunch and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (excludes drinks).
Celebrating the richness of flavour in Cretan cuisine, Esperides Resort & Spa 5* has two excellent restaurants. Natura prides itself on offering the best of the Cretan diet, serving up wholesome buffets with homemade bread and traditional sweets. At the Lemoni à la carte Restaurant, indulge your taste buds with the traditional flavours of the Mediterranean.
Your time
Just for you:
- 1 x complimentary yoga session per person, per week
- 1 x complimentary 15-minute massage per person, per stay
At the Esperides Resort & Spa 5*, try out the range of amazing facilities offered throughout the resort. Take a break from reality with a soothing experience at the hotel spa, offering calming therapies and rejuvenating treatments to attain utter relaxation. Work out in the outdoor gym, equipped with state-of-the-art weight and cardio machines. Soak in the summer sun by the outdoor pools.
Your included excursions —
Land Rover Minoan Route experience
Venture beyond the coastline and discover the authentic heart of Crete on an unforgettable off-road adventure. Travelling by 4x4 with an experienced driver-guide, explore the island's mountainous interior, where traditional villages, breathtaking viewpoints and unspoilt landscapes reveal a different side of Crete.
Cruise on Mirabello Bay
Enjoy a day cruise on Mirabello Bay, taking in the breathtaking scenery and taking time out to dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, all set to music provided by the on-board DJ.
Olive Tree Festival with live music and dinner (for stays of 7 nights or more)
Spend a special evening with the Lyraki family, who invite you to the beautiful garden at their olive oil production facility. An evening not to be missed
Your optional excursions —
Day trip to Santorini by ferry
Take advantage of your holiday in Crete to take a day trip to the neighbouring island of Santorini. Visit Greece's most famous island and enjoy a guided tour with free time in the famous villages of Oia and Fira. You will travel by speed ferry to maximise your time on Santorini.
Land Rover safari to discover eastern Crete
Combine the highest mountains of the island with traditional villages, plateaus, rolling vineyards, mythology and the local life in Crete with a full day Land Rover Safari.
Cruise on Mirabello Bay
Enjoy a day cruise on Mirabello Bay, with breathtaking scenery and time to dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, all set to music provided by the on-board DJ.
Sunset cruise to the island of Dia
Enjoy an unforgettable day on the Cretan sea with a small group on a sailing yacht. Travel to the island of Dia, tuck into a traditional Cretan dinner, and marvel at the sunset shimmering across the sea.
Olive festival with live music and dinner
Spend a special evening with the Lyraki family, who invite you to the beautiful garden of their olive oil production facility. An evening not to be missed.
Your journey to Crete —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Crete —