Visiting Crete is a sensory adventure filled with the scents of rosemary, thyme, sage, lavender, and chamomile. An island brimming with beautiful flowers and stunning landscapes, there are around 2,000 species of plants, of which about 10% are endemic to Crete. The peak explosion of wildflowers occurs from March to May, when wild orchids and tulips are joined by chamomile, poppies, anemones, iris, field gladiolus, and much more, in bloom.
Crete’s natural beauty is equalled only by the richness of its history. The island is the birthplace of the f irst advanced society on European soil, the Minoans, who ruled some 4,000 years ago. At the crossroads of three continents, Crete has been occupied by consecutive invaders. Evidence of this long history can be seen in Chania, where mighty fortresses preside over labyrinthine lanes and beautifully restored Renaissance mansions rub rafters with mosques and Turkish bathhouses. In Crete, ‘locavore’ is not a trend but a way of life. Rural tavernas often produce their own meat, cheese, olive oil, raki and wine, and catch their own seafood.
There is a possibility that this tour can be linked with our Cambridge Alumni 'Guernsey, Sark and Jersey - A Heritage Tour in the Channel Islands', which runs after this tour from 24 April - 2 May 2025. This will be possible if there are spaces available for people who are not Cambridge Alumni. Please contact us to express interest at this stage.
Explore Crete’s rich botany, its ancient and modern history, its beautiful landscapes and delicious food and wine, and learn how all of these intertwine.
Crete has around 2,000 species of plants (10% are endemic). The peak explosion of wildflowers occurs from March to May - wild orchids, tulips, iris, poppies, chamomile, field gladiolus and much more.
Drive out to the foothills of the White Mountains and visit the Botanical Park of Crete, which spreads over 20 hectares. Its microclimate allows a wide range of plants and wildlife to thrive.
In Crete, ‘locavore’ is not a trend but a way of life. Rural tavernas often produce their own meat, cheese, olive oil, raki and wine, and catch their own seafood, as well as growing produce.
Crete’s natural beauty is equalled only by the richness of its history. The island is the birthplace of the first advanced society on European soil, the Minoans, who ruled some 4,000 years ago.
Some walking between destinations, more time spent standing, and increased travel distances. Requires a reasonable level of fitness.
We like charm, comfort, convenience in location, and of course, excellence in service.
If you have some questions about this particular tour, you can contact the Jon Baines Tours team by phone or email.
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