The picturesque area of Malia is surrounded by hills and mountains and crystal clear blue waters lap the glorious sandy beaches. You can relax under a sun umbrella, enjoy the many watersports, browse in the souvenir and jewellery shops, or sit back and watch the world go by.

Included excursion

Heraklion - Step back 4,000 years to the time of the oldest civilisation in Europe on our guided tour of Crete’s colourful and lively capital. Marvel at the Minoan treasures in the Archaeological Museum, walk along the old city walls and visit the Venetian harbour, the Byzantine church and Lions Square. We drive on to explore the magnificent Palace of Knossos, centre of the Minoan Civilisation, and return via Peza for a tour and wine tasting at a local vineyard.

Choice of optional excursions

Gulf of Mirabello - A scenic drive takes us through the spectacular ravine of Saint George to the mountain village of Kritsa. We continue to the ancient fishing village of Elounda and a boat trip across to Spinalonga Island. We travel on to the picturesque town of Aghios Nikolaos, for a stroll around the small lake at the foot of the cliffs, the harbour and narrow streets.

Southern Crete - The day begins travelling through the dramatic Idi an Dicti Mountains to visit the old Greco-Roman town of Gortys, before continuing across the Messera Plain to explore the Minoan Palace of Phaestos. We drive on to the picturesque seaside village of Matala with free time for a refreshing swim and a leisurely lunch at a beach taverna before returning to the hotel.

Northern Crete - First stop today is the open-air museum Lychnostatis for an insight into the traditional Cretan life. We continue to Psychro and can either walk or take a mule ride to the Dicti Cave, the legendary birthplace of Zeus. We drive on to visit the traditional village of Tzermiado and return via Seli Ambellou for a tour of an old grain mill.