The warm, sunny weather when I arrived at Heraklion Airport was a good sign. It stayed with us for most of the week. After a look around the quaint, but bustling town of Heraklion we went to the ancient, Cretan palace of Knossos. Fascinating to think that you could be walking in the footsteps of people out of Greek history and legend.  Most days there was a selection of walks for people of different abilities. Climbing to the top of Mount Gingilos was challenging , but very satisfying. You felt literally on top of the world. The views were amazing, along with sightings of a golden eagle and an Egyptian vulture.  Walking the Samaria Gorge was equally challenging, but satisfying. For this I would recommend getting at least one walking pole. They are a good investment. The chances are that if you do one Explore holiday, you will very likely book to do some more!  Some days there was the opportunity to go for a swim in the sea. Amazing how it relaxes you after a walk.  Was good rounding off the day with the evening meal where you could relax and chat with the rest of the group about the day's activities and other things.   After having been to Crete some years before with another group, I had always wanted to return. This tour though exceeded my expectations. As well as seeing some of the more well known sites, you also saw some lesser known (but no less impressive) sites. (CR - 7th September 2010)

It was my 1st time I took a group holiday as a single traveler. Fortunately the group had only two couples, and I didn't find myself alone. The tour had several  optional walks, and it allowed people who wanted more active holiday to do it so. The food in the local tavernas was superb and inexpensive. The hotels were pretty basic, but you only needed it for overnight sleep. The breakfasts are really basic, but there is an option for extras. The itinerary was perfect - it was a very successful combination of walks in the mountains, beaches, wildlife, small villages, archeology and local culture and food. The organization of the tour was perfect - everything was well orchestrated, the drivers, the hotels, the food and the walks. I recommend everyone to improve fitness before the tour to be able to enjoy very recommended optional tours. Take a big hat, a lot of sunscreen (30 SPF is enough) and swimming suit (unless you prefer to do it naturalistic), and you will really enjoy it. (CR - 7th September 2010)