The Skinakas Observatory is situated on Mount Ida, the highest mountain in Crete, offering an ideal location for stargazing. This will be a fantastic opportunity to observe celestial bodies through powerful telescopes.
Dasos Rouvas, or Rouva Forest, is a beautiful forest located about 30 minutes from Skinakas. This is a great place to go for a hike, have a picnic, or simply relax in nature. There is a marked trail that leads to the top of the forest, where you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
We will in the afternoon continue our drive to Zaros, a traditional village located in the southern part of Crete. The drive takes about 45 minutes. Zaros is known for its beautiful setting, its natural springs, and its production of apples and raki, a Cretan spirit.
Included
- Air-conditioned bus transportation
- Professional Driver
- All legal taxes
- Liability insurance coverage by ALLIANZ
Not Included
- Food/Drinks
Full Description
Morning Pick up:
Pick-Up: We will collect the participants from their hotel in the morning.
Bus Drive: approx. 1.5 - 2 hours
1st stop: Skinakas Observatory
Our initial start point is the Skinakas region, situated at an altitude of 1750m and approximately 50 km away from Heraklion. En route, we will pass by the village of Anogia and reach the observatory established by the Astrophysics Institute in 1984. As we embark on our hike, our first stop will be the iconic Timios Stavros church, a landmark steeped in history and offering a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage.
2nd stop: Lakkos of Rouvas
After paying our respects at the Timios Stavros church, we'll then join the well-known European walking path, the E4. This scenic trail will guide us towards Lakkos Migerou, a mountain shelter nestled amidst the slopes. Following the E4 further, we'll eventually reach Saint Giannis, another potential landmark on our route. From there, our adventure takes a thrilling turn as we'll traverse a gorge, leading us to a magnificent reward - the crystal-clear waters of Lake Zaros.
3rd stop: Zaros
After conquering the invigorating gorge crossing, we'll finally arrive at the captivating Lake Zaros. Here, you'll have some well-deserved free time to unwind, recharge, and savor a delicious lunch or a refreshing cup of coffee. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the lake and soak in the stunning scenery before we end our tour.
End of the tour Return to resorts:
After boarding the vehicle, participants will be transported back to their respective hotels.
Bus Drive: approx. 1 hour
Arrival in Heraklion around 16:00 pm
Here are some additional Tips:
- Comfortable Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking.
- Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong Cretan sun.
- Cash: While major towns accept credit cards, it's advisable to carry some cash for small establishments, markets, or rural areas.
- Water Supply: Carry a reusable water bottle, especially if you plan on exploring outdoors. Staying hydrated is essential, especially during warm weather.
