Pottery Village of Margarites – The monastery of Arkadi & The Gorge of Patsos

Discover Crete’s Charm with a Customized Day Trip

This 6-hour private tour offers an engaging exploration of some of Crete’s most treasured sites, all from Patsos. For $314.25 per person, visitors enjoy a personalized experience that includes visits to the pottery village of Margarites, the historic Arkadi Monastery, and the scenic St. Anthony Gorge. The tour features a chauffeur-driven vehicle, free admission to all sites, and a local tavern lunch.

Designed for those who prefer a relaxed schedule and intimate group sizes—up to 6 travelers—this journey balances cultural insights with natural beauty. While there’s some walking involved, it’s suitable for individuals with moderate physical fitness. Perfect for visitors interested in authentic Crete, craftsmanship, religious history, and outdoor scenery.

Key Points

• Private, guided experience with a dedicated driver and local guide
• All entrance fees included, no extra costs at the sites
• Visit Margarites pottery village to see traditional crafts and enjoy coffee
• Explore the Arkadi Monastery, a significant site in Cretan history
• Experience the St. Anthony Gorge with a short hike and picnic
• Includes a traditional tavern lunch, with vegetarian options available

Starting Point and Tour Logistics in Rethymno

The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am at Eleftheríou Venizélou 39 in Rethymno. The vehicle provided is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort throughout the day. Pickup and drop-off are only available within the Rethymno district, making it a convenient choice for travelers based in or near the city.

This tour is well-suited for those who prefer a small group setting, with a maximum of 6 participants, allowing for personalized attention and an engaging atmosphere. The chauffeur takes care of navigation, so there’s no need to worry about driving or parking.

Exploring Margarites: Crete’s Pottery Village

The journey starts at Margarites Gorge, a hidden village famous for its pottery tradition that spans generations. Visitors are introduced to a local artisan named Yorgos, who demonstrates how pots are hand thrown, showcasing the village’s ongoing craft legacy. Watching Yorgos craft pottery creates a memorable experience of Crete’s artisanal skills.

The village itself features unique architecture and narrow winding streets perfect for wandering. The peaceful setting invites exploration of colorful streets and local charm. After the craft demonstration, visitors can enjoy a traditional coffee at a small kafeneio, soaking in the relaxed atmosphere.

This stop lasts approximately 2 hours and offers an excellent opportunity to appreciate local craftsmanship and authentic village life. Admission fees are included, so no additional costs apply here.

Visiting Arkadi Monastery: A Pillar of Cretan History

After a short 25-minute drive, the tour reaches the Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of Cretan resilience and religious significance. This large fortified complex was built at the end of Venetian rule and played a key role during the 1866 Holocaust.

While the guide provides a detailed overview of Arkadi’s history and architecture, visitors are not permitted to enter the monastery independently for a guided tour inside. Still, the exterior and surrounding grounds offer plenty of photo opportunities and a sense of the site’s importance.

Spending about 1 hour here allows guests to absorb the atmosphere and learn about Crete’s past. Admission is included, making this a seamless part of the day’s schedule.

Experiencing St. Anthony Gorge and Its Natural Beauty

The St. Anthony Gorge, starting at Ano Assites, is a scenic natural feature that highlights Crete’s diverse landscape. The gorge hosts rare flora and fauna, protected by European legislation, with 80 plant species and 24 animal species, including birds, some of which are protected.

A short hike of around 30 minutes takes visitors to the St. Anthony cavernous church, built within the rocky walls of the gorge. The church was formerly a temple dedicated to Hermes, adding a layer of historical intrigue.

Visitors can enjoy a picnic by a spring of running water while observing the lush surroundings. The hike is flexible, lasting about an hour, depending on weather conditions and physical fitness. This outdoor activity provides a refreshing contrast to the cultural sites.

Traditional Lunch at a Countryside Tavern

A highlight of the tour is the lunch in a local tavern, included in the price. The meal offers a taste of Crete’s cuisine, with vegetarian options available. The restaurant setting offers a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for sharing stories and enjoying local flavors.

The lunch break allows for rest and socializing, while also providing insights into Crete’s culinary traditions. The meal is a key part of the experience, complementing the historical and natural stops of the day.

Practical Details and Customer Experience

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Rethymno, making logistics straightforward. The English or French-speaking guide and local driver ensure smooth navigation and insightful commentary throughout the day.

All admission fees to the sites are covered, so there are no surprises or extra expenses. The transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle, enhancing comfort during travel between stops.

Based on reviews, the tour maintains a high standard, with a 5.0/5 rating from 15 reviews and a 4.9/5 average. Feedback highlights the varied itinerary, the quality of the lunch, and the scenic hike as particular strengths.

Unique Aspects That Set This Tour Apart

This private experience emphasizes personalized attention, with a small group size that fosters interaction and flexibility. The expert guide provides historical and cultural context at each stop, making the visit enriching without overwhelming.

The inclusion of hands-on pottery demonstrations, a meaningful monastery visit, and a scenic gorge hike creates a well-rounded snapshot of Crete’s art, history, and nature. The lunch adds a delicious local flavor, rounding out the day.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience suits those interested in authentic Crete, particularly lovers of craftsmanship, history, and outdoor scenery. It offers a balanced pace with manageable walking and driving, ideal for guests comfortable with moderate activity levels.

While the guided visits are not extensive inside the monastery, the exterior exploration and historical highlights make it appealing. The small group setting and private transportation make it a comfortable, intimate way to see diverse parts of Crete.

Final Thoughts on the Pottery Village, Arkadi Monastery, & Patsos Gorge Tour

This tour from Rethymno delivers a well-curated day of cultural discovery and natural beauty, all with personalized service. The value comes from the combination of sites, the included lunch, and the expert guidance.

While it’s not a strenuous tour, some walking and outdoor activity mean it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels. The small group size ensures a more engaging experience, making it a great choice for families, couples, or small groups seeking an authentic Crete adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included within the Rethymno district.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, all admission fees for the pottery village, monastery, and gorge are covered in the price.

How long does each stop last?
The pottery village is about 2 hours, the monastery around 1 hour, and the gorge hike about 1 hour, including the picnic.

Is physical activity required?
Some walking and hiking are involved, particularly in the gorge, so moderate physical fitness is recommended.

What is included in the lunch?
A traditional tavern meal is included, with vegetarian options available.

What makes this tour special?
It offers a private, personalized experience, combining craftsmanship, history, and nature in a manageable schedule for a memorable day exploring Crete.