Leave the south coast and drive through the Kourtaliotiko Gorge towards Rethymo and on to the Arkadi Monastery. For the Cretans, the Arkadi Monastery is one of the most important orthodox monasteries on their island, a symbol of their unconditional desire for freedom and a constant reminder of the time of Turkish rule and the heroism of their ancestors.
After the visit, drive to the archaeological museum of Eleftherna, opened in 2016, with all the finds from the excavation area. Then, continue to the ancient city of Eleftherna.
Take a 15-minute walk with your tour guide to the gigantic Roman cisterns and the imposing acropolis with its ancient olive trees and Doric-Roman ruins. Sturdy shoes are recommended and sure-footedness is required. Here, antiquity comes alive again. Alternatively, enjoy a Greek coffee in the kafeneion of the village of Archea Eleftherna and/or take a short tour of the pretty little village.
Finally, visit the pottery village of Margarites with Venetian origins. Margarites is undoubtedly the most important pottery centre in northern Crete. You may be able to experience a small demonstration of the art of pottery. End the cultural tour with a visit to a traditional taverna with a panoramic view.
