Top Crete Bird Watching

Farms are at the heart of the Cretan way of life and food alike. Enjoy an up-close encounter with a local family on their organic farm when you book this small-group cooking class. Get hands-on with activities such as goat milking and cheese making and tour an olive grove and a vineyard. Then prepare a typical Cretan lunch and enjoy it with wine, raki liquor, traditional music—and great conversation.

Hike off the beaten track through the wild mountains of Crete. You will be rewarded with unique views of Mirabello Bay and the surrounding mountains, mountain villages and olive groves. A day packed with tangible Minoan history and mythology of Greece, nowhere can you get closer and enjoy nature, endemic flora and unique fauna. Hike with a professional, experienced guide to the hidden "Machu Picchu" of Greece, the unique stepped buildings from ancient times.

Olive oil is at the heart of Greek cuisine. Enhance your understanding of Greek food and Cretan culture—and perhaps stock up on goodies to bring home—when you book this guided tour of an olive farm just outside Heraklion. See the olive groves and the mill, discover the flavors and aromas of extra virgin olive oil, and taste oils with artisanal bread, local cheeses, and more.

While on Crete, take time to explore the amazing underwater ecosystems of the Mediterranean with a visit to the shoreline CretΑquarium. Marvel at more than 2,000 sea creatures representing 200 different species like sting rays, jellyfish, sea turtles, and scorpionfish. Learn about the abundance of life found deep within the Cretan and Mediterranean sea beds, and support the aquarium's educational and wildlife rescue programs.

Discover the rugged landscapes of Crete's northern coast on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV or quad bike) adventure with transfers from Rethymno hotels. Splash through streams, wind along ancient gorges, and look for island wildlife from behind the wheel of a personal solo or tandem quad that can access tucked-away mountain reaches. You’ll need to be at least 18 and have held a license for one year to drive the quad.

Soak up stunning views of lagoons, lakes, beaches and mountains as you soar over Chania in a tandem paratrike glider on this short-but-sweet adventure with a professional instructor plus full safety equipment. Professional photos and videos will be available to purchase after you land, while an intercom system ensures you can communicate with your pilot at all times.