Culture & Discovery · Greece
Crete Discovery
Arrive on your own; Lauren and a group of about 7 are with you the whole way.
5 Oct 2027 – 12 Oct 2027 7 nights from £1,499pp own travel
Crete - an island waiting to be explored!
Welcome to Crete, Greece's largest and most enchanting island, where ancient history, breath-taking landscapes, and warm Mediterranean hospitality combine to create an unforgettable holiday experience. Over the next eight days, you'll journey through a land of stunning beaches, charming villages, dramatic mountains, and fascinating archaeological treasures.
From exploring the legendary Palace of Knossos and wandering through picturesque Venetian harbours to relaxing on golden sands and sampling authentic Cretan cuisine, each day offers a unique opportunity to experience the island's rich culture and natural beauty. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with Greece's remarkable heritage, Crete has something to inspire every traveller.
Join us on this extraordinary 8-day adventure and discover why Crete remains one of the Mediterranean's most beloved destinations.
The tour operator for this holiday is Living Crete (ATOL 9703) for which Spice Escapes act agent.
This carefully designed 8-day, two-centre itinerary allows you to experience the very best of the island while enjoying stays in two of its most beautiful coastal destinations – Aghios Nikolaos and Rethymno.
Your journey begins in the elegant resort town of Aghios Nikolaos, nestled around the picturesque Lake Voulismeni on Crete's stunning eastern coast. From here, explore crystal-clear bays, traditional fishing villages, and some of the island's most famous archaeological sites, including the legendary Palace of Knossos. Enjoy leisurely waterfront strolls, vibrant local culture, and breath-taking views across the Mirabello Gulf.
The second part of your holiday takes you to the enchanting town of Rethymno on Crete's northern coast. Renowned for its beautifully preserved Venetian Old Town, charming harbour, and rich blend of Greek, Venetian, and Ottoman influences, Rethymno offers a fascinating glimpse into Crete's diverse heritage. Wander through narrow cobbled streets, discover historic landmarks, browse local markets, and relax along miles of golden sandy beaches.
Throughout your stay, you'll have the opportunity to savour authentic Cretan cuisine, experience the warmth of traditional Greek hospitality, and immerse yourself in landscapes that range from dramatic mountains and rugged gorges to idyllic coastlines and turquoise waters. Combining the sophistication of Aghios Nikolaos with the historic charm of Rethymno, this holiday provides a balance of relaxation, exploration, and cultural discovery.
Availability and pricing
| Option | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Crete Discovery | ||
| Own flight without transfers | £1499.00 | 8 places left |
| London Gatwick | £1899.00 | 10 places left |
| London Stansted | £1899.00 | 13 places left |
| Manchester | £1949.00 | 13 places left |
| Birmingham | £1989.00 | 13 places left |
| Crete Discovery Accommodation | ||
| Place in a double room (must be for 2) | No supplement | 4 places left |
| Place in a twin share room | No supplement | 7 places left |
| Place in a single room | £299.00 | 8 places left |
Booking conditions for this holiday
Our booking conditions apply to this holiday, including the deposit and the cancellation scale. Read the booking conditions
Quote this reference if you call the team about it: SH0000768
Who else is going
The question everyone asks and nobody wants to.
- On this departure
- 7 people booked The operator's own count for this trip — you'd make 8. It can still grow before you travel.
- Travelling alone
- Most people book on their own
Why you'll love this holiday
- Two bases only: three nights in Aghios Nikolaos, four in Rethymno.
- A home-cooked lunch at a family taverna up on the Lasithi Plateau.
- Both hotels have two pools and a spa, and half board throughout.
Where you'll go
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 1
After your direct flight from the UK, meet your Tour Manager and transfer to the 4* Miramare Hotel and Spa (or similar) in Aghios Nikolaos for 3 nights’ Dinner, Bed & Breakfast. This hotel enjoys superb views and easy access to several small, pleasant beaches. Facilities include 2 swimming-pools and a range of holistic services.
Day 2
After breakfast we head around Mirambello Bay to laid-back Plaka. If wished you can take a short boat ride to Spinalonga (not included), which inspired Victoria Hislop’s award-winning novel, “The Island”. Get a feel for the moving history of this islet – especially the courage of its last inhabitants. Lunchtime by the sea in Elounda, then free time in Aghios Nikolaos; relax and sip a cool drink by the lake or explore Aghios’ small, interesting shops.
Day 3
Following breakfast we head through traditional villages to the Plateau of Lasithi, its fields and orchards shielded by mountains. Here, the old ways of working the land blend seamlessly with the new. Relax in a family-run taverna and enjoy a home-cooked lunch and wonderful views. An ideal way to round off your travels in Eastern Crete.
Day 4
After breakfast we leave the hotel and head west to our new base at Rethymno, en route visiting Heraklion with its colourful market, Venetian waterfront and fabulous Archaeological Museum. If you wish step back 4,000 years at the ruined Minoan Palace of Knossos. Check into the 4* Theartemis Palace Hotel, for 4 nights’ Dinner, Bed & Breakfast. This stylish, comfortable hotel, an easy seaside stroll from the Old Town, has 2 swimming-pools and a Spa.
Day 5
Today it's a journey further west through a luxuriant mix of coastal and mountain scenery to the lovely harbour city of Chania: market fragrant with herbs and spices: local crafts: fascinating Venetian, Turkish and Cretan architecture: excellent Maritime and Naval Museums: iconic waterfront. Revel in fabulous views from the Akrotiri Peninsula and get in touch with the past at Souda Bay Allied War Cemetery, poignantly reminiscent of the Battle of Crete of May 1941.
Day 6
After breakfast we don't travel too many kilometres, but the scenery is gorgeous as we head South: the fountains and greenery of Spili, then serene, and historic Preveli Monastery, which sheltered many Allied servicemen during the Second World War. Relaxation by the sea in the fishing-village of Plakias.
Day 7
Another short ride into Rethymno’s surrounding countryside followed by free time to explore the Old Town, then returning to relax and enjoy the facilities of your hotel.
Day 8
After a leisurely breakfast, transfer to the airport for your homeward flight.
What's included
- International Flights if selected
- Hold Luggage
- Transfers if flights booked
- Half board meal basis
- 4* Accommodation on a twin share basis
- Itinerary as described on an exclusive coach
- Your Spice host, Lauren Fawkes
Not included
- Single supplement if required
- Personal Travel Insurance
- Climate resilience tax €10per room per night (payable locally)
- Some drinks & some meals
- Optional excursions
- Personal extras
Travel and where you'll stay
Miramre Resort & Spa, Agios Nikolaos
An attractive hotel, bungalows and Luxury Villas complex situated in the peaceful location of Gargadoros. Raised from the sea front to offer spectacular views of the town of Agios Nikolaos and Mirabello Bay. Rooms are bright and comfortable and have patrial/side sea views with balcony.
Theartemis Palace Hotel, Rethymno
This hotel embodies the essence of Cretan philoxenia (hospitality), creating a stylish and stunning ambience. This luxury city resort is conveniently located near Rethymno Beach and the charming Rethymno old town, offering a variety of accommodation options tailored to suit your needs and preferences. Standard rooms offer a blend of tranquillity and elegance, setting the stage for an unforgettable stay. Step into the stylishly furnished living space, where thoughtful design meets modern practicality.
Getting there — flights to Heraklion
Departing from London Gatwick, London Stansted, Birmingham or Manchester.
London Gatwick
London Stansted
Birmingham
Manchester
These are the times currently scheduled. Airlines change them, sometimes months before departure, so please treat them as provisional rather than final.
Luggage, transfers and flight notes
Hold Luggage 22kg
Some transfers may be combine so some waiting at the airport may be required.
Before you travel
Weather when you go
October is one of the best times to visit Crete. The intense summer heat has eased, but the weather remains pleasantly warm and sunny. Daytime temperatures expect 22–26°C dropping at night to 16–19°C. The sea temperature will be 22–24°C so still very pleasant for swimming and expect 6–8 hours of sunshine a day. Rainfall in early October is generally low.
Passport validity
For UK passport holders your passport must be:
- issued less than 10 years before the day you enter (check the "date of issue")
- valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the "expiry date")
You must check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.
Entry rules for EU travel — EES, ETIAS and your GHIC
EU Entry/Exit System (EES)
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is being introduced gradually across the external borders of the European countries that use it, including the collection of biometric data such as a facial image and fingerprints. Passports continue to be stamped as usual in the meantime.
Further information: travel-europe.europa.eu/ees
ETIAS
UK citizens will eventually need a travel authorisation (ETIAS) to enter the European countries that require it for short stays. It is linked to your passport and valid for up to three years. There is no confirmed start date yet — we will let everyone know when it is required and how to apply.
Global Health Insurance Card
A UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), or a still-valid EHIC, gives you the right to access state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in the EU. It is not a replacement for travel insurance.
Travel insurance
Please ensure that you have adequate personal travel insurance to suit your requirements in place before you travel.
Gallery
Before you book
Will I be the only one on my own?
No. Almost everyone books on their own — that is the whole point of the trip. Nobody has to pair up and nobody sits on their own at dinner unless they want to.
Do I have to share a room?
Only if you want to. Sharing a twin with another solo traveller of the same sex costs nothing extra, and it is how most people keep the price down. If you would rather have a room to yourself, you can — see the single-room price on the trip you are looking at.
Is there a single supplement?
There is a charge for a room of your own and it varies a great deal by trip, so the honest answer is the figure on the holiday you are looking at rather than an average. What there is not is any obligation to pay it: sharing a twin with another solo traveller of the same sex costs nothing extra, and it is a genuine option rather than a token one.
Every holiday with a single room available, and what each one costs, is listed on single rooms and single supplements.
How big is the group?
Small enough to learn everyone’s name in the first day or two. Group sizes vary by trip and are listed on each holiday.
What does the host actually do?
Your host is there to make your holiday feel easy, welcoming and fun. They travel with the group throughout the trip, help everyone get to know each other, keep things running smoothly and are there if you need anything along the way.
They’re not a traditional holiday rep — they’re part of the group, sharing the experience with you and helping make sure nobody feels left out.
Is my money protected?
Yes. Payments are held in a bonded trust account, and every holiday booked with flights is ATOL protected under licence 9046. If you arrange your own flights, your money for the holiday is still protected by the bonded trust account, but the flights you buy elsewhere are not covered by our ATOL.
What age are the other travellers?
It varies by trip. Most groups span a wide range of ages with a shared interest in the destination rather than a shared birth year.
Is there a minimum age?
Yes — 18. Spice Escapes holidays are adults only.
Most people who travel with us are in their forties and beyond, but that is who books rather than a rule. There is no upper age limit, and two people travelling together do not need to be a similar age: a daughter in her thirties travelling with her mother in her sixties is an ordinary booking.
Is Spice Escapes a singles or dating holiday company?
No. Spice Escapes is a hosted holiday company for people who travel on their own. Almost everyone books alone, groups are small and adults only (mostly forties to sixties), and a named host travels with every departure so nobody is the odd one out. It is about the destination and the company, not matchmaking.
What travellers say
4.9/5 from 63 reviews on Google
Questions about this holiday?
Ring the office, send us a question, or chat any hour. A real person, not a call centre.
Reading about this holiday
- Rethymno old town: the Fortezza, the lanes and four nights based there
The Fortezza, the Rimondi fountain, the Neratze minaret, the folk museum and the harbour lighthouse, and how four hosted nights in Rethymno work on the Crete…
4 min read - Crete in October: warm days, a swimmable sea and a hosted week with dinner included
Average highs of 23°C, a sea warm enough to swim, Spinalonga open to the end of the month, and a hosted two-base week in Agios Nikolaos and Rethymno.
4 min read - The Lasithi Plateau: Crete's high farmland, its windmills and a family taverna lunch
Crete's largest plateau, 850 metres up: the old windmills at Seli Ambelou, the villages, the cave of Zeus, and the family taverna lunch on day three of Crete…
4 min read - Spinalonga island: the Venetian fortress, the leprosy colony and the boat from Plaka
The Venetian fort, the leprosy colony and its last priest, the boats from Plaka and how long to allow, and the hosted Crete week that stops at Plaka on day two.
4 min read
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