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

We will start our tour by visiting a beautiful well-hidden village, Margarites. The tradition of pottery has been an integral part of this village for many generations; there are lots of locals who still keep the tradition alive, up to this day, by transforming the traditional practice of pottery into modern art. In Margarites, we will meet our friend Yorgos, a local, who will show you how the pots are hand thrown. A demonstration of his art will follow, that will certainly stay “carved” in our memory. The village itself has a unique architecture and some lovely narrow winding streets, making it worth being explored. So, let’s wander through the quiet village of Margarites, enjoy the hundreds of colors that lie before our eyes and then enjoy a traditional coffee at a small “kafeneio”.

After a 25' drive, you will continue to the religious part of the tour. The goal is to make you familiar with Cretan culture and religious customs. Arkadi Monastery is perhaps the best known monastery on Crete due to the Holocaust of 1866. However, its location and impressive architecture make it all more special. It is a large fortified complex built during the end of the period of Venetian rule. We will escort you to explore this magnificent monument, but since our guides are not official, it is forbidden to have a tour inside historical monuments.

Let’s explore together the nature of Crete. The gorge of Patsos is a small yet magnificent gorge, which begins at Ano Assites. In the gorge one can see rare species of flora and fauna, which are protected by European legislation. In particular, there are 80 species of flora, of which 4 are protected, 24 species of fauna, of which 11 are protected and 16 species of birds, of which 8 are protected. You are going to enjoy a small picnic at the facilities of the gorge, as you are watching a spring of running water near the river. A beautiful attraction of the gorge is the cavernous church of St. Anthony in the rocky walls, a former temple of Hermes. From there you will follow the trail to Potami dam. Usually, hiking lasts about 3 1/2 hours but depending on the weather and physical condition of the voyagers you could hike more or less. The tour ends with the most wonderful way. Full lunch and house wine in a traditional local restaurant so as to taste the Cretan way of cooking.

A family winery

Just before we reach the Gorge of Patsos we will get the chance to visit one of the best wineries of the region. A small family-run winery, surrounded by vineyards and a magnificent view, Kourkoulou winery is a real gem. Local vine varieties cultivated by hte father Kourkoulo, fermented and vinificated by his daughter. Wine runs deep into this family's veins. The winery is really small and modern with a beautiful view of the surrounding area and a comfortable tasting room. After you get a tour of the winery you will get the chance to taste the family wines along with some Cretan delicacies.