Mixing relaxation with exploration, this trip calls by ancient monasteries and idyllic mountain villages on route to the island's most beautiful beach – Elafonisi. Touring highlights like Voulgaro, Elos and the Monastery of Chrisoskalitissa, you'll enjoy a few local delicacies before an afternoon spent on the sands of Crete's premier coastal spot.
Roll through the countryside and the morning begins with pretty scenes of chestnut, lemon and olive trees. Stopping for a slice of Cretan cheese pie and coffee in Voulgaro, we'll hit the road again to the hilltop Monastery of Chrisoskalitissa. This tiny, fort-like retreat is one of the island's hidden gems and boasts pretty chapels, a museum and views over a rocky cove.
On to Elafonisi and you'll hit the sands of a beach so pretty, it's known as ‘The Maldives of Crete'. All turquoise waters and powder-white shore, you've plenty of time to spread out your towel here and top up your tan before heading back to resort.
