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

Exploring Crete’s Cultural and Natural Treasures: A Review of the Pottery Village of Margarites, Arkadi Monastery & Patsos Gorge Tour

Imagine a day spent wandering through a quiet, traditional pottery village, exploring a historic monastery deeply tied to Crete’s past, and enjoying a scenic hike through a stunning gorge—all conveniently arranged with a private guide and chauffeur. This tour offers a well-balanced mix of culture, history, and nature, making it ideal for those who want to experience Crete beyond its beaches.

What makes this experience stand out is the personalized nature of the tour; it’s a private adventure for your group, complete with a knowledgeable guide and included transportation. You’ll also enjoy a delicious local lunch, which adds a warm, communal touch to the day. On the flip side, travelers should consider the physical aspect of the hike in Patsos Gorge, which, although manageable for most, might not suit everyone.

This tour suits those who crave authentic local encounters, appreciate a mix of history and outdoor activity, and value comfort and convenience. If you’re after an experience that combines learning about Crete’s craftsmanship, religious history, and natural beauty—all in one compact day—this trip is a compelling choice.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour for you and your party with a dedicated chauffeur.
• Inclusive Value: All admission fees and a traditional tavern lunch are included.
• Cultural Insights: Discover the pottery traditions of Margarites and the significance of Arkadi Monastery.
• Natural Beauty: Enjoy a scenic hike in Patsos Gorge with opportunities to see protected flora and fauna.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup and drop-off within Rethymno and transportation by air-conditioned vehicle.
• Authentic Flavors & Local Life: Sample local coffee and a hearty Crete-style meal with potential raki and laughter.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting in Margarites: A Hidden Gem for Pottery Lovers

The day begins in Margarites, a quiet village famous for its centuries-old pottery tradition. We loved the way this village combines historical charm with lively local craftsmanship. As you stroll along its narrow, winding streets, you’ll see colorful pottery shops—each one a window into generations of artisanship. The highlight here is meeting Yorgos, a local potter who will demonstrate how pots are traditionally hand-thrown and share insights into his craft.

A review from a previous guest mentions, “Yorgos’s demonstration was unforgettable—his skill and passion really show in his work.” After watching the process, you’ll have time to explore the village, soak in the architecture, and relax with a traditional coffee in a quaint kafeneio. This part of the tour is a true taste of rural Cretan life, away from tourist crowds.

Exploring Arkadi Monastery: A Symbol of Resistance and Faith

After about 25 minutes by car, you arrive at the Arkadi Monastery, a site that’s more than just a religious monument; it’s a symbol of resilience. Built during Venetian rule, its large, fortified complex stands as a testament to Crete’s turbulent history. While guides aren’t allowed to lead inside (a common policy here), you’ll still get plenty of time to admire the architecture and learn about the monastery’s historical significance, especially regarding its role during the 1866 Holocaust.

One reviewer noted, “Arkadi’s impressive structure and the story behind it make it a deeply moving visit.” The location offers impressive views over the surrounding landscape, adding to the sense of history and scale.

Nature and Serenity at Patsos Gorge

Next, you’ll venture to St. Anthony Gorge (Patsos Gorge), a smaller but visually striking canyon that showcases Crete’s rugged beauty. The gorge is home to rare plant and animal species protected by European legislation, making it an interesting spot for those interested in ecology. Expect a short hike—about 30 minutes—with options to extend depending on your physical ability and interest.

The gorge’s highlight is the cavernous church of St. Anthony, built into the rocky wall and once a temple of Hermes. A spring of running water near the river offers a peaceful setting for a picnic-style lunch—which is included in the tour—where you can relax and enjoy the sounds of nature.

One guest described it as “a beautiful, peaceful walk, with the bonus of seeing protected flora and fauna that you wouldn’t encounter elsewhere.”

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour offers excellent value considering everything packed into the day. The price covers all admission fees—for the pottery demonstrations and Arkadi Monastery—plus a traditional Crete lunch, which usually features local flavors, and a local driver-guide who keeps things relaxed and informative.

The transportation is air-conditioned, making the journey comfortable, especially during warmer months. The small group size (max of six travelers) ensures a personalized experience, allowing you to ask questions and get tailored insights. The tour starts at 9 am from Eleftheríou Venizélou 39, Rethymno, with hotel pickup available within the district.

A key aspect of this tour is the relaxation from driving, as your chauffeur handles all navigation and parking, leaving you free to enjoy the scenery and conversation. Many travelers appreciated the smooth logistics and the fact that all details were well-organized.

The Experience Through Reviewers’ Eyes

Reviewers consistently highlight the variety and authenticity of this tour. One guest called it “an excellent and varied trip to the countryside,” praising the scenic hike along Patsos Gorge and the delicious local lunch. The inclusion of Yorgos’s pottery demonstration left a lasting impression, showing how tradition is still alive.

A traveler named Louis expressed how “the hike was manageable, with options to walk only to the St. Anthony Cave or go further,” emphasizing the flexible nature of the experience. They also appreciated the informal atmosphere—laughter and raki flow freely, making it feel more like visiting friends than a formal tour.

An Honest Look at the Pros and Cons

Pros:

• The private setting makes for a more intimate experience.
• All entry fees and typical costs are covered, ensuring no surprises.
• The local guide provides depth and context that enrich the visit.
• The delicious traditional lunch adds value and a taste of authentic Crete.
• Comfortable transportation and hotel pickup within Rethymno streamline the day.
• The scenic variety from pottery to history to nature keeps the experience engaging.

Cons:

• The hike in Patsos Gorge involves some walking, which may not suit those with mobility issues.
• As the guides are not official inside Arkadi Monastery, you might miss detailed historical commentary during the visit.
• The tour is limited to Rethymno district for pickup, so travelers staying outside this area will need to organize their transportation.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded Crete experience—combining art, history, and nature—without the hassle of organizing transport or entry fees. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy authentic local encounters and comfortable, private tours in a small group.

If you’re interested in traditional crafts and architecture, exploring historic sites with meaningful stories, and trekking through scenic gorges, this tour checks all boxes. It’s also great for food lovers who enjoy sampling local cuisine in a relaxed setting.

However, if you prefer more extensive guided tours inside monuments or have mobility issues, you might want to consider other options or inquire about alternative arrangements.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup is included within the Rethymno district, making the start of your day smooth and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 6 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the original meeting point.

What is the group size?
It’s a small, private tour with a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.

Are admission fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the pottery village, Arkadi Monastery, and Patsos Gorge are included.

Is lunch provided?
A traditional Crete-style lunch, including vegetarian options, is part of the experience. Expect local flavors and a friendly atmosphere.

Can I hike in Patsos Gorge if I have mobility issues?
The hike involves about 30 minutes of walking, with options to limit the distance. For those with mobility concerns, it’s best to discuss this beforehand.

What should I wear for the hike?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Bring sunscreen and water for hydration.

Can I customize this experience?
While the itinerary is set, the small group nature allows for some flexibility, especially regarding the walking distance and timing.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a delightful blend of art, history, and natural beauty, all wrapped up in a relaxed, private setting. You’ll love the authentic pottery demonstration, the imposing Arkadi Monastery, and the peaceful walk through Patsos Gorge. The included lunch and transportation make it not only fun but also convenient and good value for money.

It’s a perfect choice for travelers looking to connect with local traditions, explore meaningful historical sites, and enjoy scenic outdoor activity without the crowds. Whether you’re into crafts, history, or nature, this tour delivers a well-rounded taste of Crete’s diverse charms.

Remember, this experience is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness, a curiosity for local culture, and a desire for a personalized, relaxed day exploring some of Crete’s lesser-known but captivating sights.