From Rethymno: Arkadi, Margarites, Sfendoni Cave, and Axos

Introduction

If you’re eyeing a day trip that combines history, culture, and a bit of adventure in Crete, this tour from Rethymno might just tick the boxes. It’s designed for those who want more than just sightseeing—they want a taste of local life, art, and natural wonders, all in one go. We’ve seen enough reviews and descriptions to say it’s a solid choice for travelers who like to keep busy and see a variety of sites.

What really draws us to this experience are two things: first, the chance to explore Arkadi Monastery, a site steeped in resistance history and full of icons and weapons that tell a story of resilience. Second, the visit to Sfendoni Cave, which promises a magical journey through illuminated chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites—perfect for those who love nature’s hidden marvels. On the flip side, one common concern is the bus ride—some reviewers mention it could be cleaner and more comfortable, especially for those prone to travel sickness.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a well-rounded day with a mix of history, craft, natural beauty, and local flavors. It’s a good pick whether you’re a culture buff, nature lover, or just looking to experience the authentic side of Crete beyond the beaches and towns.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary: Combines historical sites, traditional villages, natural caves, and local food experiences.
• Value for money: At $48, it offers a full day with multiple stops and guided insights.
• Engaging activities: Pottery lesson, cheese making, and tasting local snacks add hands-on fun.
• Expert guides: Multiple reviews praise guides for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Scenic routes: Winding mountain roads provide stunning views and photo opportunities.
• Some discomfort: Bus comfort and lunch options might be less impressive, depending on your expectations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Look at the Rethymno Day Trip

This tour is a good way to weave together the different threads that make Crete special—history, crafts, nature, and food—all in a single day. Let’s walk through what you’ll experience and what you might want to keep in mind.

Starting at Arkadi Monastery

Your day kicks off with pick-up from your hotel in Rethymno, which is a real convenience. From there, it’s a scenic drive up into the mountains, where Arkadi Monastery awaits. This site isn’t just eye candy; it’s a symbol of resistance and resilience. Wooden icons, weapons, and historical artifacts tell a story of a pivotal moment in Cretan history. Many reviews highlight that the site is well worth the visit—“renowned for its pivotal role in resistance” and full of icons and weapons that give you a tangible sense of local history.

Expect to spend some time soaking in the atmosphere and listening to your guide’s insights. It’s a peaceful place, but with a poignant story that adds depth to the experience. If you’re a history buff or interested in local traditions, this stop is quite enriching.

Scenic drive to Eleutherna

After Arkadi, the route takes you through the mountains, offering some of the best views Crete has to offer. We loved the way the landscape unfolds—layer upon layer of rugged hills, olive groves, and distant villages. A brief stop in Eleutherna allows you to enjoy the scenery and stretch your legs. It’s a good moment for photos or just to appreciate the peaceful mountain environment.

Pottery in Margarites

Next, you arrive in the village of Margarites, famous for its pottery tradition. Here, you get a chance to see artisans at work and even try your hand at making ceramics. This hands-on element makes the experience stand out. Many travelers find this part charming and fun, especially if you’re into crafts or want a tangible souvenir.

The women running the pottery workshops are enthusiastic and eager to share their skills. The tradition runs deep—this village has been producing ceramics for generations. It’s a relaxed stop that combines culture with a bit of creativity.

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Marveling at Sfendoni Cave

From Margarites, it’s a short drive to Sfendoni Cave, one of Crete’s natural treasures. This impressive cave stretches over 1,400 meters, and the guided tour takes you through illuminated chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites. The lighting enhances the formations, making the experience almost surreal.

We read reviews that describe the cave as “a magical journey” and “a hidden gem,” which seems fitting. The cave offers a cooler, shaded environment—perfect after the mountain drive—and provides an intriguing look at the island’s geological quirks.

You’ll have about an hour here, enough time to explore most of the illuminated sections, snap photos, and marvel at the natural sculptures. Keep in mind, some parts are narrow, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Axos Village and Cheese Tasting

After the cave visit, it’s time for a more relaxed, flavorful experience in Axos Village. Here, you get to see firsthand how local cheese is made, including participating in the milking process. Many reviews mention how engaging and authentic this part is—“witnessing the cheese production and tasting fresh snacks” adds a genuine touch to your day.

You’ll sample homemade cheese pies, taste fresh cheeses, and enjoy traditional snacks. The host’s friendliness and the quality of the snacks are often praised—many say it’s good value, especially when you consider the opportunity to try local flavors in a relaxed setting.

Wrapping Up the Day

After a leisurely time in Axos, it’s back on the bus for the return journey to Rethymno. The ride offers a chance to reflect on the day’s sights, and the guide often shares more stories and insights along the way.

What to Know Before You Book

• Cost and Inclusions: At $48 per person, this tour offers a lot—hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, and homemade snacks. Entrance fees for Arkadi Monastery and Sfendoni Cave are extra and are not included in the price (around €4 and €5 respectively), so budget accordingly.
• Transport: The bus is generally described as functional but not luxurious—some reviews mention it being a bit old or not very clean. If you’re sensitive to comfort, it’s worth noting.
• Duration: At 8 hours, this is a full-day outing. Starting times can vary, so check availability.
• Guide: The live guide is English-speaking, and reviews highlight guides’ friendliness and knowledge, which enhances the experience.

The Verdict

This tour offers a well-balanced blend of history, with Arkadi Monastery, and nature, with Sfendoni Cave. The addition of cultural crafts and local food gives it a genuine Cretan feel. Many travelers appreciated the value for money—a full day of sightseeing and activities for less than $50.

While the bus comfort might not be top-tier, most found it manageable, especially given the scenic drives and interesting stops. The optional activities like pottery and cheese tasting add a layer of authenticity that many find worthwhile.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who wants to cover a broad spectrum of Crete’s highlights—history, art, natural beauty, and local flavors—this tour is a good fit. It’s suitable for those comfortable with a moderate pace and some bus travel. It’s not overly strenuous, but be prepared for some walking and uneven surfaces, especially at the cave.

This experience is particularly ideal if you enjoy engaging guides, hands-on activities, and seeing how locals live and craft their traditions. However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less varied day or have specific dietary or comfort needs, you might want to explore other options.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start and end your day without stress.

How much do the entrance fees cost?
Entrance to Arkadi Monastery is approximately €4, and Sfendoni Cave costs about €5. These are not included in the tour price.

What is the duration of the tour?
The whole experience lasts about 8 hours, making it a full-day activity. Check the start times when booking.

Is the transportation comfortable?
The bus is described as functional but not luxurious. Some reviews mention it could be cleaner, so if comfort is a priority, keep that in mind.

Can children participate?
While the tour isn’t specifically labeled as family-oriented, the activities like pottery and cheese tasting can be fun for older children. Younger kids may find the drive and walking a bit tiring.

Is there a meal included?
No, but homemade snacks are provided. The tour doesn’t include a full meal, and reviews suggest the lunch options—like cheese pies—are simple but tasty.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for the cave and monastery visits. Bring a hat and sunscreen for outdoor stops.

Are there any particular times I should avoid?
Check availability and start times in advance. The tour runs in the daylight hours, and some stops may be busier during peak tourist seasons.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
Some sites, like the cave and monastery, involve walking and uneven surfaces. If mobility is a concern, consider this before booking.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Rethymno offers a well-rounded taste of Crete’s history, craftsmanship, natural beauty, and local flavors. It’s an accessible way to get a good sense of the island beyond the beaches, especially if you’re interested in seeing traditional villages, natural caves, and historic sites. The guided element and the inclusion of fun activities like pottery and cheese tasting make it engaging, while the scenic mountain routes add to the overall experience.

While it may not be perfect for those seeking luxury or a completely relaxed pace, it provides genuine value for the price and a glimpse into the authentic Cretan way of life. Perfect for curious travelers eager to explore a variety of sights without the hassle of planning multiple trips on their own.

If you’re after a full day of diverse experiences that combine culture, nature, and food, this tour could be a memorable part of your Crete adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: