Amazing Sunset Safari Route with Dinner

Planning a trip to Crete and considering a guided tour that combines scenic drives, cultural stops, and a memorable sunset? The Amazing Sunset Safari Route with Dinner offered by GOCRETESAFARI might just fit the bill. It’s an experience designed to introduce you to the island’s lesser-known spots while enjoying the magic of Crete’s evening light.

What immediately catches your eye about this tour is the promise of stunning views and cultural insights — plus, the chance to try local delicacies and wine. Two things we really like are the variety of stops, especially visiting a traditional olive mill and the birthplace of Pope Alexander E, and the expert guides who make the history come alive. That said, the tour is quite full in its schedule, which might leave some feeling rushed through certain stops.

If you’re after a well-rounded introduction to Crete’s scenic landscape, authentic villages, and historical sites, this tour could be a good pick. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, local food, and a bit of storytelling, all wrapped up with a sunset view.

Key Points

• Beautiful Scenic Routes: Pass through unknown mountains and Lasithi plateau trails, offering stunning landscapes.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit a traditional olive mill, learn about olive oil production, and explore historical sites related to Pope Alexander E.
• Authentic Crete: Stop at traditional villages for local drinks and delicacies, giving you a taste of island life.
• Relaxed, Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides share stories that bring history and local culture to life.
• Good Value for the Price: At $96, including dinner and wine, it offers a comprehensive experience in a manageable timeframe.
• Sunset Views: The climax of the tour is a breathtaking sunset, perfect for memorable photos.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Crete Sunset Safari

This tour is laid out as a mix of scenic drives, short stops, and cultural visits, all designed to showcase Crete’s diverse beauty while offering insights into its history and traditions. It begins with a convenient hotel pickup from eight different locations, making it accessible for many travelers staying around Heraklion.

Starting the Adventure

Once onboard, you’ll head east into the island’s lesser-traveled roads, starting with a visit to a traditional olive mill. Here, you’ll see how local olive oil has been made for generations, with options to buy pure olive oils and related products. It’s a glimpse into local craftsmanship that many travelers find interesting, especially since olive oil is such a vital part of Cretan cuisine.

Visiting Pope Alexander’s Birthplace

Next, the tour takes you to the birthplace of Pope Alexander E, dating back to the 14th century. The guide will share stories about his early life and how he rose through the ranks of the Roman Catholic Church. It’s a chance to connect with Crete’s historical tapestry beyond the usual tourist spots.

Exploring Traditional Villages and Monasteries

The journey continues through quaint villages like Kourounes and Kounali. These spots are perfect for photos, enjoying panoramic views, and soaking in the peaceful pace of rural Crete. At Xera Xila, you’ll find ruins from a monastery dating back to 1635, offering a tangible link to the past. In Kounali, you have time to relax in a traditional café, where locals often enjoy raki and snacks — an authentic taste of island life.

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Scenic Drive and Sunset

The route is carefully designed to maximize stunning landscapes, with scenic drives offering sweeping views of mountains and countryside. The final stop at Milatos Beach is the setting for a relaxed dinner with local wine and snacks. As the sun begins to dip, you’ll settle in to watch a spectacular sunset, the perfect end to a day of exploration.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Multiple Pickup Locations

The tour starts conveniently from eight locations, including Limenas Chersonisou, Anissaras, Analipsi, Sisi, Gouves, Stalida, Gournes Gouvon, and Malia. This flexibility makes it easier to fit into your travel plans without extra transport worries.

Stop 2: Scenic Drive and Photo Stop in Neapolis

After pickup, the van heads east to Neapolis (about 40 minutes). This area provides scenic views and a nice chance for some photos of the lush landscape. The guide shares some info about the surroundings, making this a worthwhile quick stop.

Stop 3: Kourounes Village

Next, it’s time to stop in Kourounes, a traditional village with roots in Cretan rural life. The roughly 30-minute visit includes a guided tour, a chance to soak in the tranquil atmosphere, and a few more photos.

Stop 4: Xera Xila Monastery Ruins

Here, you can see the remains of a monastery from 1635. With about 30 minutes for a self-guided visit, you’ll be able to explore the ruins and imagine what life was like centuries ago. It’s a quiet spot that adds a layer of historical depth.

Stop 5: Kounali Village

This traditional village offers more picture-perfect scenery and a brief rest. The about 35-minute stop includes free time, so you can enjoy the views and maybe chat with locals if they’re around.

Stop 6: Milatos Beach for Dinner

The final highlight before sunset is at Milatos Beach, where a laid-back dinner with wine and local snacks awaits. The 1.5-hour stop is perfect to unwind, enjoy the food, and share stories with your fellow travelers.

Return and Drop-off

After sunset, the guides will bring you back to your hotel, ending a day filled with great scenery, history, and flavors.

The Experience of the Tour

The tour’s appeal largely hinges on its diverse stops — from ancient ruins and traditional villages to scenic mountain pass views and a sunset dinner. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and storytelling, making historical facts memorable rather than dry. Many reviews mention how the guides bring the local history to life, which enhances the overall experience.

The inclusion of a visit to a traditional olive mill is particularly well-liked, offering an authentic look at local production methods. The opportunity to buy products directly from the source can also be a bonus for those wanting a special souvenir or gift.

The Sunset and Dinner

The highlight for many is the sunset at Milatos Beach. The timing is usually perfect for photographs, and the atmosphere is relaxed. The dinner itself offers local wine and snacks, providing a taste of Cretan hospitality. Some travelers mention the quality of the wine as a pleasant surprise, making it more than just a quick snack.

Value for Money

At $96 per person, the tour provides a solid mix of sightseeing, cultural insights, and a memorable sunset. Compared to other experiences in Crete, this is a fair price considering the number of stops and inclusions, especially the dinner and wine. It’s a good-value way to see a lot in a single afternoon and evening.

Group Size and Logistics

The tour is designed for small groups, which helps keep things intimate and personalized. Pickup and drop-off are included, removing the stress of extra transport logistics. The experience is flexible enough to accommodate most travelers, but it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or back problems, as it involves some walking and uneven terrain.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a combination of scenic landscapes, cultural history, and relaxed dining. It’s suited for those who enjoy storytelling and learning about local traditions, as well as photography enthusiasts eager to capture Crete at sunset. It’s less ideal for people with mobility challenges or those expecting a purely adventure-focused activity.

Final Thoughts

The Amazing Sunset Safari Route with Dinner offers a well-rounded look at some of Crete’s lesser-known treasures, wrapped in a comfortable, guided format. You’ll enjoy the mix of beautiful scenery, historical sites, and authentic villages, all culminating in a spectacular sunset and a cozy dinner. The knowledgeable guides really help bring the experience to life, making it more than just a scenic drive.

If you’re after a relaxed, culturally rich evening that combines sightseeing with local flavors, this tour is a solid choice. Keep in mind it’s a day with some driving and walking, so pack comfortable shoes and your camera — you’ll want to remember those views.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour involves some walking and uneven terrain, it can be enjoyed by older children who are comfortable with such activities. However, it’s not specifically designed as a family-focused experience.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, fuel, experienced guides, a dinner with wine, and all scheduled stops.

Are there vegetarian options for dinner?
The provided information doesn’t specify dietary options, so it’s best to inquire directly with the provider if you have dietary restrictions.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 5.5 hours, with starting times varying based on your location and schedule.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a camera are recommended to enjoy the stops and capture those sunset moments.

This tour is a nice way to see Crete’s countryside, learn some local history, and unwind at sunset — all while enjoying good food and wine. It’s a package that balances scenic beauty with cultural storytelling, making it a memorable addition to your Crete trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: