The Power of Women in Ancient Crete

Your adventure has begun as you global travel to Elounda, Crete. As you descend, take a look out of your window to see its crystal sea, ancient architecture, and pristine beaches. A local guide will be waiting to transfer you to your beachfront hotel. 

The afternoon is yours to explore your environment. Walk around the city, swim on the beach, or get a message at the hotel spa. In the evening, you’ll meet with your guide for a traditional Mediterranean-style dinner, offering you a great opportunity to get to know your guides and ask questions about your upcoming adventures. 

On this off-road adventure, you’ll discover the wild and rugged side of Crete. A Land Rover will transfer you up into the Dikti mountains. Feel the wind in your hair as you quad through the never-ending plains of Lassithi Plateau. Your guide will find a pleasant area near water to stop for a picnic lunch. Next, you’re off to Zeus Cave. This Minoan sacred cave is believed to be the birth of the Greek god Zeus. Learn about him as well as the powerful female gods on this tour. Do you dare to jump into the cave’s lagoon for a swim?! 

Compare archaeological reconstructions today of the Palace of Knossos with the humble reconstruction of Gournia. This bustling port town was the heart of the ceramic trade in Crete and is another geological point of interest for archaeologists and women’s studies experts from all over the world. Consider the differences in both reconstructions and which one is considered accurate.

The beach in Gournia is terribly polluted due to the currents that carry garbage from the ocean into the isthmus. Add an impact to your itinerary and consider helping a local organization do a beach cleanup. There are community-wide efforts to clean up the beach in order to attract more tourism. Take part in this incredible effort!

This is a day you will not forget as you explore the Palace of Knossos. Dating back to the 2nd century, the Minoan religion celebrated female deities and had women officiants. Historians and archaeologists say that the Palace of Knossos was run by a matriarchy with powerful female authoritative figures. Walk in the footsteps of once Minoan queens on this educational tour. Explore the palace’s storerooms, inner court, and royal quarters. Eat lunch at this powerbase of Greece’s birthplace of civilization. A guide will explain the site’s history and legends. 

Today’s tour brings you to two of the most diversely cultural locations in Greece. First, you’ll arrive at Chania city. Walk down its picturesque streets and swim in the nearby lake’s clear waters. Next, you’re off to lunch in the town of Rethymno. Following this, you’ll visit its leading museums, shopping in the markets, and walk with a guide to hear about the city’s history and legends. 

You’ll explore the Crete coastline on your first day as you transfer to the beaches of Akrotiri. Enjoy a stand-up paddleboard tour in Marathi Bay. A professional guide will lead you to small islets, a cave, and fantastic diving locations. You’ll have the opportunity to snorkel the reefs and sunbathe and snack on the beach. 

What way to end a trip to Crete than with a sailing cruise. You’ll leave from Gramvousa Peninsula to reach your first destination: the lagoon of Balos. Swim and snorkel in the water or enjoy views at one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Next, you are off to the Island of Gramvousa. Hike to the island’s famous ancient Venetian Castle. The views from this attraction are unforgettable. Enjoy the beach and discover more of the island before heading back into the boat. Enjoy views of the sun setting on the horizon as you sail away. What an excellent way to end your trip!

It has been both an adventurous and educational week. We hope you had lots of fun, but it’s now time to leave. Enjoy a final breakfast with your group and guides before transferring to Heraklion International Airport for your departure flight home.