Discovering the Minoan Legacy

As the sun rises over the picturesque village of Panormos, the allure of Crete beckons with promises of ancient wonders and serene landscapes. Begin your weekend with the Central Crete Tour—a journey into the heart of Minoan civilization. Available from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, this tour offers a luxurious escape into the past, where the elegance of a chauffeured ride meets the splendor of the ancient Messara plain. Here, the ruby soil nourishes vineyards and olive groves that stretch endlessly into the horizon.

Your expert local guide will lead you through the Bronze Age palaces of Phaistos and Gortyna, where history whispers through the ruins. As you wander the picturesque village of Agios Myronas, step into the sacred cave of the Saint, where holy water still flows. The day unfolds with a visit to a family-owned vineyard, where passionate winemakers share their world of enchantment. As the afternoon sun casts a golden glow, immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Matala, a village that once captivated the likes of Bob Dylan and Janis Joplin. Here, the azure waters of the Libyan Sea invite you to relax and savor the freshest seafood, perfectly paired with the finest ouzo.

“Private tours as they should be. Being able to see and experience what interests you without the need to rush. Snami Travel’s staff is up to it. Today Dimitrios took us to Agios Myron Church and Cave where we enjoyed the togetherness after Sunday mass, the archaeological sites of Gortyna and Festos Palace, the bluest of waters of the Libyan sea at the beach in Matala and the amazing food & view at Petra & Votsalo restaurant next to it.” — Reviewed on 2023-09-10

Embracing the Charm of Rethymno

On the second day, as the skies clear and the sun bathes the island in warmth, embark on the West Crete and Rethymno Town Tour. Available from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, this tour is a bespoke adventure through the golden expanse of West Crete. In the comfort of a luxury vehicle, journey through ancient villages and storied Byzantine monasteries nestled among utopian wonders.

The day begins with a stroll through the labyrinthian streets of Rethymno Old Town, where Venetian fortifications stand as a testament to the island’s rich history. Revel in the glamour of the old town, a playground for authentic street markets and eclectic wine-cocktail bars. As you continue your journey, delight in the historic village of Spili, where perennially flowing waters and medicinal herb gardens create a serene oasis.

The tour takes you through the enchanting Kourtaliotiko Gorge, where the wild beauty of nature captivates the senses. Visit the age-old Preveli monastery, where stories of glory and tradition come to life. In the mountainous village of Argiroupolis, surrounded by towering trees and breezy waterfalls, connect with the essence of West Crete through scrumptious tastes from antiquity.

“Great time on Crete with Alex!! From the beginning of our tour, Alex was amazing!! He is extremely knowledgeable! Our first stop was Rethimno, where we enjoyed the cute shops and the marina. We then enjoyed Greek coffee in the town of Spili, went through a beautiful gorge on our way to the monastery in Previli. We then toured the town of Argiroupoli, where we enjoyed a delicious Greek lunch. We lastly visited a gorgeous lake (Limni Kourna). We enjoyed our conversations with Alex as we traveled around the island.” — Reviewed on 2024-06-16

A Weekend of Elegance and Exploration

As your weekend in Panormos draws to a close, the memories of Crete’s hidden wonders linger like a gentle breeze. The island’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty offers a luxurious escape from the ordinary. Whether you’re exploring the ancient ruins of the Minoan civilization or savoring the flavors of West Crete, each moment is a testament to the island’s timeless allure.

With the clear skies and pleasant temperatures, this weekend is the perfect opportunity to embrace the elegance of Crete. From the captivating tales of ancient palaces to the serene beauty of Rethymno’s old town, your journey is a seamless blend of luxury and serenity. As you depart, the island’s charm remains, inviting you to return and discover more of its hidden treasures.