South Crete – The gorge of the Eremits, Sunset in Matala

If you’re planning a trip to Crete and looking for a way to experience the island’s southern charms without the hassle of planning every detail, this guided tour might catch your eye. It promises a full day of exploring diverse attractions—from lush gorges and historic monasteries to lively beaches and a sunset dinner at a traditional Cretan restaurant. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but from the details available, it seems like a well-rounded way to see some of southern Crete’s highlights in one go.

What really appeals to us about this experience is the small group size of just eight travelers. That often means more personalized attention from your guide and less time spending in lines or crowded spots. Plus, the inclusion of a sunset dinner at a local restaurant sounds like a lovely way to wind down the day and indulge in authentic Cretan cuisine. On the flip side, the full day of activities plus the drive might be a bit long for those who prefer more leisurely, relaxed mornings or are traveling with very young kids. Still, if you’re someone who enjoys a busy, immersive day, this tour could be right up your alley.

This tour would suit travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of southern Crete’s natural beauty and cultural sites without trying to organize multiple separate trips. It’s a good fit if you’re comfortable with a schedule that packs the day and your main goal is to see as much as possible with a knowledgeable guide. Let’s get into what makes this tour worth considering—and what you should keep in mind before booking.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances the experience with personalized attention.
• Diverse attractions covered in one day—from herbs to historic monasteries, to stunning gorges and beaches.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle keeps the focus on sightseeing.
• Includes a sunset dinner at a traditional Cretan restaurant, offering authentic local flavors.
• Tour is suitable for most travelers but may be a long day for those with limited stamina or young children.
• Free cancellation allows flexibility if your plans change.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point and Pickup

Most travelers will begin their day in Heraklion, where pickup is offered from designated locations. This setup is convenient, especially if you’re staying in or near Heraklion, saving you the hassle of arranging transport to a meeting point. The tour is operated by TOURLINE, and they keep the group small, capped at just eight people, which really makes a difference when it comes to the overall vibe.

Stop 1: Botano – Exploring Herbs and Spices

Your first stop is Botano, a place where you can get up close with exotic herbs and teas. This is a quick 20-minute visit but a worthwhile one if you’re interested in local flora. It’s a good way to set the tone for the day—appreciating the natural bounty of Crete. The fact that admission is included means you’re not paying extra, and it provides a nice introduction to the island’s plant life that you’ll see again at other stops.

Stop 2: Odigitria Monastery

Next up is the Odigitria Monastery, situated above the area toward the gorge of Agia Farango. The monastery has historical significance, especially related to the 19th-century occupation of the Turks. You’ll spend about 40 minutes here, enough to soak in the atmosphere and maybe snap some photos of the architecture and views. The inclusion of admission ticket means you get to explore without extra charges, and the setting above the landscape gives you some impressive scenery to enjoy.

Stop 3: Agio Farago – The Gorge Walk and Water

The highlight for many is the Agio Farago Gorge, where you’ll take a leisurely walk through a lush landscape to reach a crystal-clear water beach. The 2-hour stop allows plenty of time to enjoy the natural beauty, take photos, and relax at the water’s edge. The gorge’s reputation as a beautiful, peaceful spot is well-deserved, and the walk offers a chance to stretch your legs while enjoying the greenery and fresh air.

Stop 4: Matala Beach and Sunset Dinner

The final major stop is Matala Beach, famous for its unique caves and bohemian vibe. After exploring the village, you’ll settle in for a sunset dinner at a traditional Cretan restaurant run by a local family. This part of the tour is about two hours, giving you time to enjoy your meal and soak up the sunset ambiance. The dinner is included in the price, which adds good value considering most other tours don’t include a meal at such a scenic setting.

What the Experience Offers and Its Potential Drawbacks

The Good Stuff

The guide’s knowledge seems to be a big plus, with reviews highlighting how well they share insights about the island and its flora. The personal touches, like Viola showing travelers herb spots and perfect picture locations, make a difference in making the day memorable.

Stunning views are a common theme—whether it’s the gorge, the monasteries perched above the landscape, or the sunset in Matala. If you’re someone who appreciates scenic variety, this tour offers plenty of photo opportunities and peaceful moments amid natural beauty.

Comfort and convenience are another plus. Traveling in an air-conditioned bus on Crete’s sometimes hot roads makes the day more comfortable. Plus, the small group size means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and your guide can be more attentive.

The Not-So-Great

A possible downside is the long duration of the day—around nine hours, including travel and stops—which could be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to full-day excursions. The itinerary is packed, so if you prefer a slow-paced experience, this might feel rushed.

Weather can also impact the day—adverse conditions could mean cancellations or substitutions, but the tour offers flexibility with full refunds if that happens.

The Price and Its Value

At around $110.91 per person, this tour seems to deliver solid value given the inclusions—multiple attractions, a guided experience, transportation, and a sunset dinner. If you were to book each stop separately, the costs would add up, especially considering guided insights and transport logistics.

This tour’s strength lies in its efficiency and personalized approach. You get a curated experience with a knowledgeable guide, which can often make or break the enjoyment of a day trip. If you’re keen on seeing a variety of sites without the stress of planning, this is a reasonable investment.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

Based on the single review, the experience truly resonated with the traveler, Doris, who called it “amazing” and appreciated the wonderful views and memories created. She also praised Viola for her storytelling and local knowledge, highlighting how meaningful guided tours can be when led by passionate guides.

It’s clear that the blend of natural scenery, cultural insight, and local cuisine makes this tour a well-rounded option for those who appreciate a personal touch and a bit of adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a full, immersive day exploring the natural and historical sides of southern Crete. It suits those who are comfortable with a packed itinerary and appreciate good guide-led insights. It’s great for people who enjoy scenic walks, cultural stops, and ending the day with a beautiful sunset meal.

However, if you prefer a very relaxed pace or traveling with very young children, it might feel a bit long. The physical activity involved, like walking through the gorge, means it’s better suited for those with a reasonable level of mobility.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the full-day schedule and walking involved. It’s best for those with decent mobility and stamina.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, you’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned bus between all stops.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, giving you flexibility.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers all stops, admission tickets for attractions, transportation, and the sunset dinner at a traditional restaurant.

How long is the tour?
It’s approximately 9 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and dinner.

Is the dinner at the end of the day local and authentic?
Yes, the sunset dinner is at a traditional Cretan restaurant run by a local family, offering authentic flavors.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides a well-balanced glimpse into southern Crete’s natural beauty, history, and local culture. With a small group, knowledgeable guides, and a scenic sunset dinner, it offers a meaningful way to experience the region without the stress of organizing multiple trips yourself.

It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a busy, engaging day filled with diverse sights and stories. If you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced experience, you might find this a bit packed—but for those ready to pack in a lot of memorable moments, this could be a highlight of your visit to Crete.

Whether you’re an avid photographer, a history buff, or simply love stunning landscapes, you’ll find plenty to enjoy on this adventure through south Crete.