Itinerary:

• 08:30 Departure from Rethymno
• 09:05 Photo stop at the dam and lake (important wetland area)
• 09:20 Visit to Agios Antonios Gorge (Patsos Gorge) and small cave church
• Drive through traditional villages and stop at the highest viewpoint of the area
• 40-minute guided tour of the botanical garden
• Tea break surrounded by Cretan nature
• Visit Spili village, the folklore museum, and have free time for coffee
• Drive through Kourtaliotis Gorge
• Stop at Plakias beach for swimming and lunch by the South Cretan Sea
• 17:30 Return to Rethymno

First Stop: Lake Vibes and Mountain Views

This nature-packed tour begins with a visit to a serene mountain lake near Rethymno. Surrounded by untouched greenery and alive with bird calls, it offers a perfect introduction to south Crete. The lake, formed by a major dam, supports rich biodiversity and panoramic photo opssetting the tone for the scenic day ahead. Let us guide you through the first landscapes that capture the island's natural beauty.

Into the Wild: Patsos Gorge Hiking Crete Adventure

The journey continues to one of the most striking natural sites on the island, Patsos Gorge. Known locally as Agios Antonios Gorge, this part of the tour offers a peaceful Gorge hike through dramatic rock walls and dense vegetation. You'll pass a small chapel carved into a cave, adding a mystical touch to the experience. It's a soul-stirring highlight for any lover of Crete's nature and ancient spiritual heritage.

Aromas and Roots: Botanical Garden and Spili Village Crete Tour

Next, explore Crete's plant kingdom during a guided botanical garden tour. This 40-minute walk reveals native herbs and flowers once used by Minoans for healing. Afterward, we head to the picturesque Spili village for the next part of the Spili village Crete tour. Discover its famous lion-head fountains, explore the folklore museum, and enjoy coffee in a square lined with old-world charm.

From Mountain to Sea: Plakias Bliss and the Final View

No day in south Crete is complete without a refreshing swim. Our Rethymno to Plakias day trip ends with free time on the shores of Plakias, a beloved coastal spot where the Libyan Sea meets sunlit sand. Dip into the clear waters, relax with a seaside lunch, or just soak in the scenic atmosphere. It's the perfect ending to one of the most rewarding day trips in Crete.

Book Your South Crete Nature Tour Today

Let us take you on one of the most immersive Crete scenic day trips, combining hiking, history, flora, and the sea. This South Crete nature tour offers a perfect mix of exploration and relaxation. Don't wait! Reserve your spot and discover the soul of Crete in one unforgettable day!