All Day Family Tour to Rethymno & Kournas Lake | JMP Tours

Imagine a day spent wandering through historic alleyways, followed by relaxing by Greece’s only natural freshwater lake. That’s exactly what this private full-day tour offers — a balanced blend of culture, nature, and comfort, all tailored for families or small groups wanting an authentic Crete experience.

What makes this tour stand out is the careful planning that balances sightseeing with leisure, all in a private setting. We especially appreciate the flexibility built into the itinerary, allowing for spontaneous stops or personalized adjustments.

On the flip side, some might find the mid-day break in Rethymno a bit lengthy, but it’s perfect if you’re eager to explore at your own pace. This experience is ideal for those who want a mix of cultural discovery and natural beauty without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

If you’re traveling with family, love historical towns, or enjoy scenic lakeside landscapes, this tour could be a great fit. It combines the charm of Crete’s old towns with the tranquility of its unique freshwater lake — a true escape from the everyday.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored for families or small groups
• Expert guides who are knowledgeable about local sights and history
• Comfortable luxury transport with air conditioning and flexible stops
• A well-balanced day that includes both cultural exploration and natural scenery
• Affordable for what you get — a full 8 hours of sightseeing for under $340 per group
• Authentic Crete experience, away from large tour buses and crowds

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This private tour begins early in the morning — around 9:00 AM — with a pick-up directly from your hotel in Chania. The convenience of being collected from your accommodation means you avoid the hassle of figuring out transportation or crowded group tours. The first leg involves a scenic 50-minute drive, with a coffee stop along the way to energize for the day ahead.

Rethymno, the first major stop, is a highlight. Our guides have praised the well-preserved Venetian and Ottoman architecture, and you’ll love wandering the narrow streets and alleys of the Old Town. The Venetian Loggia, Rimondi Fountain, and other hidden gems make for excellent photo opportunities. One reviewer, Mimmi, noted, “Kaikki sujui hyvin, kuski oli tosi mukava,” highlighting the friendly and informative nature of the guide.

You’re given about three hours here, which is enough time to soak in the atmosphere, browse local shops, or enjoy a quick coffee in one of the quaint squares. It’s a leisurely pace designed for exploration rather than rushing through.

By around 12:00, your private vehicle whisks you away toward Kournas Lake — Greece’s only natural freshwater lake. The drive takes approximately 25 minutes. Here, you’ll find turquoise waters, lush greenery, and scenic views that are perfect for relaxing or taking photos. The lake’s tranquil setting is a perfect counterpoint to the bustling streets of Rethymno.

Kournas Lake offers more than just pretty views; it’s a spot for gentle walks along trails through olive groves and hills. Some paths lead to elevated viewpoints, giving you sweeping vistas of the lake and surrounding landscape. This is where our reviews really hit the mark: visitors loved the stunning scenery and the knowledgeable guides who explained the natural features and history of the area.

For about two and a half hours, you can swim, take a water bike, or simply relax in the peaceful environment. Bring your beachwear, towel, and sunscreen — you’ll want to make the most of the opportunity to cool off and enjoy the scenery. Keep in mind, there’s a small fee for sunbeds if you want to lounge on the beach, but generally, the lakeside is free and open.

The return trip begins around 15:00, giving you ample time to unwind and take in the views as the vehicle headed back toward Chania. The entire day wraps up around 17:00-18:00, leaving you with a wealth of memories and photos of a truly diverse Crete experience.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $338 for a private group of up to six people, this tour provides excellent value considering the personalized attention, luxury transportation, and the flexible itinerary. For families or couples, it’s a cost-effective way to access multiple highlights in a single day without the stress of organizing logistics or rushing between sights.

The inclusion of a luxury air-conditioned vehicle and thoughtful amenities like a beach umbrella and bottled water ensure comfort throughout the day. Plus, the flexible stops mean you can tailor the experience slightly to your preferences — whether that’s spending more time in Rethymno or enjoying additional time at Kournas Lake.

The reviews also highlight the quality of the guides, who are fluent in both English and Greek, and who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. This adds an extra layer of enjoyment, as you’ll learn interesting tidbits about Crete’s history, architecture, and natural environment from someone who genuinely cares.

What to Know Before You Book

• Timing is flexible, but check availability for specific starting times.
• Bring essentials like sunscreen, a change of clothes, beachwear, and a towel — especially for lakeside fun.
• The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at your hotel, making logistics simple.
• Lunch and drinks are not included, so you might want to pack some snacks or plan to grab something in Rethymno or near the lake.
• Fees for sunbeds at the lake are separate, but the lakeside itself is free to enjoy.

Authentic and Enjoyable for the Right Travelers

This tour is best suited for families, couples, or small groups seeking a relaxed, yet comprehensive day out. It’s perfect if you want to explore Crete’s historic towns and natural lakes without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The private nature of the tour allows for personalized pacing and spontaneous adjustments, which many guests appreciated.

While some might find the schedule a bit leisurely, the overall experience rewards patience with stunning scenery, interesting history, and the comfort of a private vehicle. It’s a well-balanced day designed to leave you with a sense of genuine Crete, both its past and present.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, the private nature and relaxed pace make it family-friendly. Just bring essentials like swimwear and sunscreen for lakeside fun.

How long is the drive between stops? The drive from Chania to Rethymno takes about 50 minutes; from Rethymno to Kournas Lake, around 25 minutes.

What’s included in the price? The cost covers pick-up and drop-off at your hotel, luxury air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, and a beach umbrella.

Can I customize the stops or schedule? Yes, the itinerary is flexible, and the provider is open to adjustments based on your preferences.

Are meals included? No, lunch and drinks are not included, but there are plenty of options in Rethymno and at the lakeside for you to explore.

Is there free time at the lake? Yes, you’ll have about 2.5 hours to swim, relax, walk, or rent water bikes.

What should I bring? Pack sunscreen, a towel, change of clothes, beachwear, and anything you need for water activities.

To sum it up, this private tour offers a wonderful way to see some of Crete’s most picturesque spots with the comfort and flexibility of a private guide. It’s perfect for families or small groups wanting a meaningful, relaxed day that balances culture and nature. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and a thoughtfully designed itinerary, it’s an experience worth considering if you’re seeking an authentic slice of Crete.