Pilgrimage Between the oldest Cities in Europe - From Knossos to Phaistos 7 Days

Begin your Cretan adventure with a warm welcome at Heraklion airport, where you will be greeted and transferred to your comfortable accommodation in the heart of the city (Heraklion or similar). Settle in and enjoy a delicious dinner, marking the start of your multi-day exploration of Crete’s rich history and vibrant landscapes.

After a hearty breakfast, set out from Heraklion to the legendary archaeological site of Knossos, where the mysteries of the Minoan civilization come alive. Journey south through lush olive groves and vineyards, passing the tranquil village of Agia Irini. Continue along the ancient riverbed of the Kairatos, ascending towards the sacred slopes of Mount Juktas. Explore the enigmatic Anemospilia Sanctuary, a site steeped in ancient rituals and dramatic history. The day concludes in the charming town of Archanes, where you can savor traditional Cretan cuisine and sample renowned local wines in the lively village square. Lunch is included, and you will spend the night in Archanes (or similar).

Begin your day in Archanes and set off westward, ascending the ancient paths to the summit of Mount Juktas. From this sacred peak, enjoy sweeping vistas of the Cretan coastline and the island’s expansive vineyards. At the summit, visit the Church of Jesus, a spiritual landmark that has drawn worshippers for millennia. Descend along scenic trails, passing through rolling hills and fertile vineyards, until you reach the tranquil village of Profitis Ilias, where agricultural traditions thrive. Enjoy a local lunch and relax in this peaceful rural setting, with accommodation provided in Profitis Ilias (or similar).

Leaving Profitis Ilias, descend through a landscape dotted with olive groves and vineyards, enjoying panoramic views of Crete’s central mountains. Pause in the quaint village of Kyparissi for a refreshing cup of mountain tea before continuing to Agios Thomas. Here, history comes alive as you explore ancient Minoan wine presses, Roman tombs, and centuries-old churches. The day’s journey offers a blend of natural beauty and archaeological intrigue, with lunch provided and overnight accommodation in Agios Thomas (or similar).

Today’s trek reveals a changing landscape as you leave behind vineyards and olive groves for fields and livestock farms. After a scenic walk, arrive in Panasos, home to Crete’s ancient olive tree, estimated to be 3,000 years old. The journey continues to the lakes of Gergeri, where you can admire both natural and man-made bodies of water that sustain the region’s agriculture. Enjoy a local lunch and unwind in the peaceful village of Gergeri (or similar), where you will spend the night.

Embark on your final hike from Zaros, following the Agoutsakitis River southward to the impressive Faneromeni Dam, a modern marvel that irrigates the fertile Messara plain. Continue to the village of Faneromeni before being transferred via the ancient site of Phaistos to the sun-kissed shores of Kalamaki Beach. Here, you can relax and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea, followed by a memorable farewell dinner. Overnight in Kalamaki (or similar).

After a final breakfast by the sea, you will be transferred from Kalamaki to Heraklion airport for your return journey home, bringing your unforgettable Cretan adventure to a close.