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14 Night Fly Drive Holiday on Crete
Overview
Introduction
Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, is a captivating blend of stunning beaches, charming harbours and strong traditions, set amidst a backdrop of historic architecture, majestic mountains, and picturesque valleys. Hidden villages and hamlets showcase the island's authentic essence, while the three main towns of the north coast - Chania, Rethymnon and Heraklion offer a lively city experience for those seeking vibrant urban life. Nature enthusiasts don't have to venture far on Crete to discover its diverse wildlife and lush flora, with the fragrance of lemon and orange groves in the air. The remarkable White Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop in the west, inviting visitors to enjoy scenic hikes or drives through breathtaking landscapes.
Eastern Crete has plenty of history to explore - the big name attraction being the Palace of Knossos but also lesser known Minoan sites and monasteries to explore. The lesser-visited south has a different atmosphere, the coastline fanned by warm breezes coming across the Libyan Sea from Africa and, in the rugged west, mountains and gorges reaching down to the sea.
Our 14 night tailor made Fly Drive holiday on Crete offers you the perfect combination of cities, mountains and stunning coastlines, staying in a selection of small family-run hotels.
Itinerary includes:
- Return flights to Chania
- Car Hire
- 2 Nights in Rethymnon - (Bed and Breakfast)
- 1 Night in Heraklion - (Bed and Breakfast)
- 2 Nights in Elounda - (Bed and Breakfast)
- 2 Nights in Sitia - (Room Only)
- 1 Night in Ierapetra - (Bed and Breakfast)
- 1 Night in Zaros - (Bed and Breakfast)
- 2 Nights in Plakias or Agia Galini - (Bed and Breakfast)
- 3 Nights in Chania - (Bed and Breakfast)
We can also offer shorter 10 night itineraries focusing on western and eastern Crete starting from £1,475pp.
Western Crete
- 2 nights in Rethymnon
- 1 night in Heraklion
- 1 night in Zaros
- 3 nights in Aghia Galini or Plakias
- 3 nights in Chania
Eastern Crete
- 1 night in Heraklion
- 3 nights in Elounda
- 3 nights in Sitia
- 1 night in Ierapetra
- 2 nights in Zaros
In fact we can offer complete flexibility if you would like to adjust any of the above to your own interests, or add a resort based stay somewhere at the end for some well deserved rest and relaxation.
Board Basis: Bed & Breakfast, Room OnlyAgenda
Day 1 & 2 - Rethymnon
On arrival at Chania Airport, collect your hire car and drive to the town of Rethymnon (1-1.5 hours) and your accommodation for the next two nights. The Ideon hotel, a 3-star hotel, offers an idyllic setting by the shores of the Cretan Sea, encompassed by the historic old town of Rethymnon. Influenced by the Venetian and Turkish eras, the hotel is near notable monuments like the majestic Fortezza fortress and the charming Venetian harbour. Just a stone's throw away is the bustling shopping district and the vibrant downtown area with it's labyrinth of narrow streets.
Rethymnon in Crete blends historical charm with modern comfort, featuring the Venetian Fortezza fortress and Old Town. The city offers a glimpse into its Venetian past through architecture and landmarks like the old port and mosques. Alongside historical sites, Rethymnon boasts beautiful beaches, shops, and restaurants serving Cretan cuisine, providing a seamless blend of past and present for visitors to enjoy.
Overnight at the Ideon Hotel. Bed & Breakfast
Rethymnon harbour
Day 3 - Heraklion
Nestled in a prime spot that boasts breathtaking vistas of the Cretan Sea and the majestic Venetian Fortress 'Koules,' Lato Boutique Hotel stands as a beacon of Cretan hospitality, having welcomed guests with open arms for over 45 years. This esteemed establishment prides itself on delivering exceptional services around the clock, throughout the year, making it the go-to accommodation for visitors to Heraklion. Its strategic location not only caters to families but also to adventurers eager to dive into the rich tapestry of Crete. A stone's throw from the hotel, guests can immerse themselves in the historic city centre, where major sites and cultural landmarks abound. Moreover, the hotel's proximity to an array of shops, quaint coffee places, and restaurants ensures that every need and desire is within easy reach, making Lato Boutique Hotel the perfect base.
Heraklion, the capital of Crete, blends ancient history with modern life. Visitors can enjoy the Old Town, Venetian harbour, archaeological sites, vibrant squares, museums, and Knossos Palace. The city offers a rich experience merging past and present.
Overnight at Lato Boutique Hotel. Bed & breakfast.
Heraklion
Day 4 & 5 - Elounda
After breakfast, today you will take a leisurely drive to Elounda (approx. 1 hour) and your accommodation for the next two nights. Close to the stunning Elounda coast, the Elounda Krini Hotel takes full advantage of its amazing location; a complex of white-washed accommodations, making use of natural materials and local design elements, the hotel blends ideally with the surrounding stunning landscapes.
Elounda, nestled on the northeast coastline, embodies the quintessence of a laid-back holiday. This charming town has a rich history and golden sandy beaches, with the enchanting island of Spinalonga just a stone's throw away. The main square, is steeped in history and bustling with activity, offering an assortment of souvenirs and the opportunity to savour traditional Cretan dishes. The quaint harbour, dotted with boats and luxury yachts, is flanked by bars and restaurants, presenting the perfect backdrop for leisurely lunches or cocktails while watching life unfold at a serene pace. For beach lovers, Elounda has expansive Blue Flag beaches to secluded coves, ideal for those looking to unwind under the sun. History buffs will find enjoy exploring the area's past, with attractions such as the picturesque stone windmills at the bay's edge, the ancient sunken city of Olous (wonderful to snorkel over if the sea conditions are right), and the remarkable Spinalonga Island, once a Venetian Fortress, then a leper colony until 1957 as related by Victoria Hislop in her novel The Island - each telling a story of the region's rich heritage. Elounda is a treasure trove of experiences, blending relaxation, history, and natural beauty into a memorable getaway.
Overnight at the Elounda Krini Hotel. Bed & breakfast
Elounda
Day 6 & 7 - Sitia
Heading further along the island's north east coast, today you will drive to Sitia (1 hour 30 mins) and your accommodation for the next two days, the Sitia Bay Hotel. All apartments here have a magnificent view of the sea and are equipped with air-conditioning, double or single beds, a fully equipped kitchen, WIFI, satellite TV, telephone, luxury bathrooms and balconies. On the ground floor there is a breakfast area that offers various continental breakfast options (payable locally). Additional facilities include a cafe-bar, sun beds, a small gym, sauna and private parking. The hotel’s swimming pool is set in a peaceful flower-filled courtyard where there is also plenty of space to sunbathe. The hotel’s roof terrace is a great place to relax and watch the amazing sunsets.
Renowned for Europe's largest palm forest and boasting some of the continent's most breathtaking beaches, the picturesque town of Sitia merges nature with the vibrancy of city life. Its bustling waterfront has a good choice of restaurants, cafes, and shops. The essence of Sitia is further enriched by the mesmerising azure of the sea, setting a perfect backdrop for tales as ancient as time. Explore the history at the Kazarma fortress, a testament to the resilience of Sitia through centuries of conquests. A short journey west leads to the exotic Vai palm forest, a spot shrouded in legends and the unmistakable beauty of Crete. Sitia is the perfect destination for cultural festivities, savouring the local cuisine, and to take in the beautiful landscape.
Overnight at Sitia Bay Hotel. Room Only (the rooms have kitchen facilities)
Sitia
Day 8 - Ierapetra
Today you will drive to the south east corner of the island to Ierapetra (1 hour). Your accommodation for this evening is at El Greco Hotel. A 4 star boutique hotel full of Cretan hospitality. As a family business, it was recently redesigned harnessing the same love and detail that someone would give to their home, with a beautiful, warm atmosphere, a modern character and an emphasis on tranquility. Located on the coast, it offers wonderful views of the Bay of Ierapetra. Along the seafront there is a pathway where you will find a good selection of shops, cafe/bars and restaurants.
Ierapetra is a serene coastal town known for sandy beaches, warm hospitality, and rich culture. Visitors can enjoy picturesque alleyways, local shops, waterfront dining, and day trips to Chrissi Island for a natural paradise with pink sands and diverse wildlife.
Overnight at the El Greco Boutique Hotel. Bed & breakfast
Ierapetra
Day 9 - Zaros
Zaros is the next destination of your holiday and it is around 1-2 hours drive, depending on which route you choose. We would recommend heading back to the north coast and the town of Agios Nikolaos and the capital, Heraklion and heading south to Zaros. Whichever route you choose, you will have many opportunities to stop at a local village taverna for coffee or lunch, all the while taking in the island's breathtaking scenery. This evening your accommodation will be the Idi Hotel. This delightful, family-run hotel has always been an integral part of our fly-drive holidays on the island. Set at the foot of Mount Ida, alternatively called Idi or Psiloritis and at 2,456 metres the highest mountain in Crete by all of 2 metres, this overwhelmingly hospitable 2-star hotel is set within 16 acres of lush gardens of fruit trees, flowers and shrubs. The family is particularly proud of its restaurant serving fresh trout, salmon and sturgeon directly from the hotel's own fish ponds. All food in the restaurant, not only the fish, is sourced from local farms and cooked to traditional Cretan recipes. In all dishes, the restaurant uses virgin olive oil from its own groves. This is traditional Cretan gastronomy and the Mediterranean diet at its finest. Breakfast choices are equally healthy - and delicious! A wonderful, very Cretan base from which to enjoy the nature all around and one where you can hardly fail to relax and fully recharge batteries.
Zaros shows another face of Crete. Nestled in the mountains inland from Heraklion and famous for its spring water, Zaros is an attractive, very traditional Cretan village with several fine Byzantine monasteries in the area. It is an excellent walking centre (Rouvas Gorge) and local attractions include Votomos Lake and farm-raised trout.
Overnight at Idi Hotel. Bed & breakfast
Zaros
Day 10 & 11 - Plakias or Agia Galini
For the next leg of your holiday, you will have the choice to stay in Plakias or Agia Galini. Both resorts are on the south coast and each can be reached between 1 hour and 1 hour 40 minutes.
Agia Galini is a charming coastal village by the Libyan Sea. During summer, its port is bustling with boats heading to destinations like Agios Georgios and Preveli. The village offers a variety of amenities including restaurants, taverns, and shops, set amidst picturesque cobbled streets and old houses on cliffs. Its pebbled beach and marine caves are unique attractions, with caves accessible by boat showcasing stunning cerulean waters. Plakias is a serene village surrounded by natural beauty, including mountains, gorges, and beaches. It offers tranquillity, a vibrant culinary scene, and opportunities to explore historical landmarks like Preveli Monastery and Frangokastello from its port.
Overnight at either Neos Ikaros, Agia Galini or Alianthos Beach Hotel, Plakias. Bed & breakfast
Agia Galini
Day 12, 13 & 14 - Chania
For the final leg of your fly-drive holiday, you will journey up to the north west coast and to the city of Chania (1 hour 30 mins). Your accommodation for the next three nights is at the charming Doma Hotel. This most civilised hotel combines comfort with an old-world elegance. It used to be the British Consulate, and stands across the road from the sea 1 km from the centre of town and a 15 minute walk from the harbour. Personally run by the genteel sisters, Rena and Ioanna whose family home this once was, the hotel is full of antiques, family heirlooms and photographs, historical prints and generally fascinating Cretan ephemera collected over many years. On the third floor is a beautifully decorated breakfast room with wonderful views over the sea to the harbour. To the rear of the hotel there is a small ‘secret’ garden littered with pieces of pottery and sculpture.
Chania in Greece blends rich history with natural beauty. The Old Town reflects multicultural influences, leading to a picturesque port with a Venetian lighthouse. Chania's beaches offer relaxation, while the Samaria Gorge provides a challenging trek. It's a destination for discovery, relaxation, and warm hospitality.
Overnight at the Doma Hotel. Bed & breakfast
Chania
Day 15 - Day of departure
Drive to Chania Airport for your return flight home to the UK.
Accommodation
Idi Hotel - Night 9 to 9
Sunvil has worked with this delightful family run hotel since it opened in 1980. The mountain village of Zaros (elevation 434m) is in the centre of Crete - a 50 minute drive via a good road inland from Heraklion - and has always been an integral part of our fly-drive holidays to the island.
Sunvil has worked with this delightful family run hotel since it opened in 1980. The mountain village of Zaros (elevation 434m) is in the centre of Crete - a 50 minute drive via a good road inland from Heraklion - and has always been an integral part of our fly-drive holidays to the island.
Set at the foot of Mount Ida, alternatively called Idi or Psiloritis and at 2,456 metres the highest mountain in Crete by all of 2 metres, this overwhelmingly hospitable 2-star hotel is set within 16 acres of lush gardens of fruit trees, flowers and shrubs. At the entrance to the hotel water gushes from a mountain spring - the spring water from Zaros is famous and sold throughout Greece - and next door is the historic 15th century water mill which is still working (the flour for the hotel’s bread is ground here). Peace, quiet and birdsong reign.
The family is particularly proud of its restaurant serving fresh trout, salmon and sturgeon directly from the hotel's own fish ponds. All food in the restaurant, not only the fish, is sourced from local farms and cooked to traditional Cretan recipes. In all dishes, the restaurant uses virgin olive oil from its own groves. This is traditional Cretan gastronomy and the Mediterranean diet at its finest. Breakfast choices are equally healthy - and delicious!
Rooms are housed within three separate buildings on ground, first or second floor and are simply and tastefully furnished with views to the surrounding mountains or gardens and pool from their balconies. Rooms in the main building, which has a lift, are renovated in a contemporary style; those in the garden bungalows to the rear have older more traditional furnishings.
The large village of Zaros is under a kilometre away - a 3 minute drive or 15 minute walk - and has three tavernas plus cafes and shops. A 7 minute walk (600m) from the hotel in the other direction is Zaros Lake, which has a restaurant of its own.
Of course walking is a major attraction here. Zaros is on the E4 hiking trail which runs the length of the island and options range from shorter local paths to the longer more difficult routes up the mountain, maybe taking in the Vorizia Gorge (a mountain guide is recommended for serious hikers). The region also hides a number of monasteries and chapels.
A wonderful, very Cretan base from which to enjoy the nature all around and one where you can hardly fail to relax and fully recharge batteries.
Facilities
- Restaurant with terrace
- Cafe/ bar
- Furnished gardens (hammocks) with extensive lawns
- Freshwater swimming pool
- Tennis Court (equipment can be provided)
- Central safe
- WiFi
- Free parking
Neos Ikaros Hotel - Night 10 to 11
The family-run Neos Ikaros is located towards the back of Agia Galini, a 7 minute walk down to the pretty harbour front promenade (500m), via the picturesque narrow ‘taverna street’ and colourful village shops, and a further 5 minutes (400m) on the footpath above the sea to the lovely beach here. The hotel is in a quiet spot away from the bustle of the town but within easy walking distance of the restaurants, bars and cafes of this picturesque village.
The family-run Neos Ikaros is located towards the back of Agia Galini, a 7 minute walk down to the pretty harbour front promenade (500m), via the picturesque narrow ‘taverna street’ and colourful village shops, and a further 5 minutes (400m) on the footpath above the sea to the lovely beach here. The hotel is in a quiet spot away from the bustle of the town but within easy walking distance of the restaurants, bars and cafes of this picturesque village.
This is a modern building with 31 comfortable bedrooms which have been refurbished. There is a good-sized swimming pool in the mature gardens below the hotel - steps lead up to the reception area and most rooms.
The Neos Ikaros is ideal for a long stay as it has all the facilities that are required for a relaxed holiday in unspoilt surroundings within easy reach of all the attractions of this delightful village. We also offer short stays here as part of our fly-drive holiday programme to Crete. We can transfers or (better value) car hire from the airport (1 hr 15 mins from Heraklion; 2 hrs from Chania).
Facilities:
- Breakfast room and terrace (buffet breakfast)
- Cafe/snack/pool bar
- Swimming pool with hydromassage systems
- WiFi throughout
- Swimming pool
- Internet and TV room
- Free parking on site
Doma Hotel - Night 12 to 14
This most civilised hotel combines comfort with an old-world elegance and has been featured several times in ‘The Good Hotel Guide’.
This most civilised hotel combines comfort with an old-world elegance and has been featured several times in ‘The Good Hotel Guide’. It used to be the British Consulate, and stands across the road from the sea 1 km from the centre of town and a 15 minute walk from the harbour.
Owned by the genteel sisters, Rena Valiraki and Ioanna Koutsoudaki whose family home this once was, the hotel is full of antiques, family heirlooms and photographs, historical prints and generally fascinating Cretan ephemera collected over many years. It has 20 rooms and 4 suites, all with air-conditioning, ceiling fan, WiFi, TV, safety deposit box, hairdryer and shower room. Those at the front have good sea views but no balcony and are above a busy road; we favour those to the rear which have a balcony overlooking the small attractive garden.
The hotel also has three first floor suites at the front and a very private Penthouse Suite which has a huge roof-terrace to itself and panoramic views to the sea and old town. On the third floor and served by a lift is a beautifully decorated breakfast room with wonderful views over the sea to the harbour. To the rear of the hotel there is a small ‘secret’ garden littered with pieces of pottery and sculpture.
Fine beaches lie to either side of Chania and can be reached by bus, hire car or taxi - the hotel supplies beach towels on request. For a quick dip you could swim from a narrow strip of sand and shingle below the hotel (note: rough path down). Chania's splendid new Archaeological Museum is a ten minute walk away.
Note: Most of our rooms, unless otherwise requested, will be to the rear of the hotel with balcony and garden view.