Greece 2024

August 3-10, 2024

Kissamos, nestled on the northwest coast of Crete, Greece, is a charming town that effortlessly combines history, natural beauty, and modern comforts. Blessed with sunkissed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a backdrop of rolling hills, this town is a haven for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. But Kissamos is not just about its picturesque beaches; it boasts a rich historical heritage as well. The town is home to ancient sites such as the archaeological site of Polirinia, showcasing remnants of past civilizations. The lively town center exudes a warm ambiance with its traditional tavernas serving delectable Cretan cuisine, local shops offering handmade crafts, and friendly locals who are eager to share the town’s stories and traditions. Kissamos is a delightful destination where visitors can unwind, explore the past, and embrace the genuine hospitality of Crete.

Accommodations

Kissamos Bay is a newly built property located right on Kissamos Paralia beach. The majority of rooms have their own balcony with a sea view and each room has its own private bathroom. Housekeeping, clean linen, and service are provided daily. There is a safety deposit box, Wi-Fi, television, air conditioning, and a mini fridge in every room. Sunbeds, bicycles and snorkeling equipment are available free of charge.

Distance From the Beach: Right on the beach
Distance to town center: 5 min walk (800m)
Distance to bus stop 10 min walk (1,2km)

Twice daily meals will be included in your cost. Kissamos is a small, traditional Greek town, which is why every evening we will visit a different Greek restaurant in town that will have a selection for you to choose from. (At least 3 plants based healthy vegetarian and vegan options, 2 meat options, 2 pasta options). Lunch can range from 4-18 Euros depending upon restaurant/market location. Lunches included are noted in the itinerary.

Breakfast is served at the hotel.
Oats
Fresh fruit
Coffee
Tea
Fruit juice
Scrambled eggs
Bread
Avocado, egg, toast
Cereal

Itinerary

Day 1 – Welcome to Kissamos, Crete, Greece. Your luggage can be dropped off at the hotel as soon as you arrive, so feel free to explore Kissamos at your leisure. Check in begins at 3pm. 5pm Yoga 6pm Wine Meet and Greet 7pm Dinner Free time

Day 2– Two Seas Hike. Spend the morning relaxing after yesterdays travel before our afternoon hike. 9am Yoga 10am-11am Breakfast 10am-2pm Free time. Relax on the beach, snorkel, take a nap…it’s your time! 2pm Two Seas Hike and lunch (optional) – We will embark on a scenic stroll that connects Crete’s Northern coast and Kissamos Bay, extending towards the expansive West Coast. Let’s marvel at the boundless vistas of the Cretan Sea while traversing the high ridge. A sack lunch is provided to eat at the look out point. As we descend the vista, we’ll explore the historical Greek port and conclude our journey with a rejuvenating dip in the crystalline turquoise waters. If you plan on hiking, be sure to have a small back pack to hold your lunch, walking/hiking shoes, and water bottle. Walking time: 1½ hours
Walking distance: 5Km
Total time: 3 hours
Difficulty: easy-medium
Terrain: mostly wide country tracks, some rocky parts. This is a nice hike for those who love sea views. 5pm Return to hotel for free time. 7pm Dinner 9pm Free time

Day 3– Balos Beach- A day spent at one of the most well know beaches in Europe. 8am Yoga 9am Breakfast 10am-4pm Balos Beach and sack lunch provided. This lagoon is one of the most photographed spots on the island of Crete, with hypnotizing turquoise waters and a panoramic landscape. There are sunbeds and umbrellas for rent and snacks for sale. 5pm Yoga 7pm Dinner 9pm Free time

Day 4– Chania Exploration Day- Much of the Chania you will want to see is clustered close to the harbor – old buildings, museums, churches, amazing food, open air markets, and crafts shops. The Venetian, Turkish, traditional and modern architecture coexist in harmony in the city of Chania, creating a unique and attractive scenery for the visitors. Archaeological sites, temples, squares, and unique buildings adorn the attractive city of Chania. Küçük Hassan Mosque, this is the oldest and most mesmerizing edifice on the island and is built right on the old Venetian port of Chania. It is also called the Mosque of the Janissaries (or Yiali Tzamisi Mosque), which means the “seaside mosque”. It was built on the ruins of an ancient Venetian church and was solely used by the Janissaries (Turkish soldiers during the Ottoman era). The mosque was constructed around 1645. Chania Lighthouse was originally a naval post created by the Venetians that would protect the city from oncoming Turks or pirates. The old city of Chania constitutes a unique historical monument, for which have been made many efforts by the State and the local authorities to preserve and project its historical character. Lunch is not included. Any fees for additional tours/sightseeing/museums are at your own expense. 9am Yoga 10am Breakfast 11:30am Depart for Chania- Today is a day of exploration! Stick together or wander solo. 5pm Rendezvous at meeting point to return to Kissamos 7pm Dinner 9pm Free time

Day 5-Kissamos Exploration and Pnevmatikakis Winery Tour and Tasting -Pnevmatikakis Winery is a family run winery in Kissamos, with many years of experience, expertise and extensive presence and contribution in Cretan wine making. Lunch is not included. 9am Yoga 10am Breakfast 11:30am – Kissamos Exploration (walking) Tour the town at your leisure. Take in the monastery, traditional arched buildings, local shops, vendors, walk the harbor, or enjoy more of Greece’s beautiful beaches. Lunch is not included. 3pm-Depart from hotel to Pnevmatikakis Winery for tour and tasting 7pm Dinner 9pm Free time

Day 6– Free Day- Take a hike, ride a bike, hop on the bus to a new adventure, or simply chill. Lunch is not included. This is a free day for you to explore the region. Stay in Kissamos and explore more of the local culture and beaches or head off to Chania on the local bus to shop till you drop. 9am Yoga 10am Breakfast 11-5pm Free time 5pm Yoga 7pm Dinner 9pm Free Time

Day 7– Beach Day, Cooking Class, and Greek Night- Falassarna is a blue flag beach and one that is loved by locals. This public beach on the Western coast of Crete is known for its powdery white and pink sand, stunning sunset views, and tranquil atmosphere. Just a short drive from Kissamos, Falassarna Beach is also a protected nature reserve that’s home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Stroll along rolling sand dunes, go jet skiing and surfing amid crystal clear waters, or check out the string of seafood tavernas lining the coast. Here you can either lay on the beach or explore ancient Falassarna. Remember walking shoes if you are interested in exploring ancient Falassarna. The evening will start with a traditional cooking class where you’ll learn the secrets behind Greek favorites like tzatziki, dakos, and gemista! Then we will end on a high note with Greek Night, a local buffet restaurant with dancing, plate smashing, and a last celebration of our time together in Crete! 9am Yoga 10am Breakfast 11am Depart for Falassarna Beach 4pm Rendezvous to return to hotel 5pm Cooking Class 7pm Greek Night Dinner

Day 8-Departure Day 8am Yoga 9am Breakfast 11am Check out- You are welcome to leave your baggage at the hotel for no extra cost if you decide to still explore Kissamos or have a flight that leaves later.

Cost

What’s included:

Twice daily meals (occasional lunches are included as noted above)
Luxury Accommodations
Daily Yoga classes
Cooking Class
Greek Night
Wine tasting
Hike to Two Seas
Transfers to locations. (occasionally we take the bus)
Snorkeling Equipment
Sunbeds at the motel
Bicycles for exploring

What’s not included:

Travel insurance
Transfer from the airport to Kissamos – The bus system is safe and clean. Buses run from 7am-11pm in the summer. Transfer from the airport to Kissamos is approximately 10-15 euros. Taxis are available as well, however cost are higher. Once all participants have booked flights, we will try to let everyone know what arrivals look like if you’d like to share a cab or travel the bus together.
Plane travel– Fly into Chania (CHQ)
Local Peeps I have travel watches on the flights leaving Billings. You’ll need to leave on Aug 2nd (overnight flight) in order to make it into Greece on time. I’ll let you know when it’s time to book your flights if you’d like, or you’re welcome to find you own. Currently (1/1/24) flights are about $1700, but I fully expect this to drop to around $1350 give or take.
Non Local Peeps- If you’d like me to set a ticket watch from your nearest airport, let me know!
Spending money for shopping and travel treasures
Lunches ( unless noted above)
ETIAS fees- The European Union implemented this system to collect information on visa-free tourists to ensure the identification of people who pose a security risk before traveling. The ETIAS application process is an online application process; it’s very easy and straightforward. You will receive an email with more information about this and what to do.
Passport costs- If you don’t have a valid passport…fill out the online form HERE and follow instructions to print. Schedule your passport appointment HERE. Be sure to bring all your paperwork and documents with you to your appointment.

Flying Solo– 8 rooms available 4 Rooms available

Save $200 with our Early Bird Special

$1700 valid until March 31st @ midnight

~~Full Price $1900~~

$500 Non-refundable deposit required to hold your space.

Private Room with private bath. Housekeeping, clean linen, and service are provided daily. There is a safety deposit box, Wi-Fi, television, air conditioning, and a mini fridge in every room. Sunbeds, bicycles and snorkeling equipment are available free of charge.

Bring a Buddy– 2 rooms available

Save $200 per person with our Early Bird Special

$3000 for 2 people valid until March 31st @ midnight

~~Full Price $3400~~ for 2 people

$500 per person non-refundable deposit required to hold your space.

(Please note…We do not partner you with someone for this room rate)

Shared Room 2 single beds with private bath. Housekeeping, clean linen, and service are provided daily. There is a safety deposit box, Wi-Fi, television, air conditioning, and a mini fridge in every room. Sunbeds, bicycles and snorkeling equipment are available free of charge.

In order to keep transaction costs and fees down, we are taking deposits and payment via Venmo.

Please send your $500 deposit to @Jessica-Burns-Moore If asked for the last 4 phone digits to confirm please enter 4633.

In the “what’s this for?” area please state:

Flying Solo/your name/deposit.

OR

Bring a Buddy/Your name and Your buddy’s name/deposit

You will receive a confirmation email within 48 hours of your deposit being received. Deposits will be deducted from your balance. The remaining balance will be split into 3 equal payments. Payment dates are March 15, May 1, and June 15, request for payment will be made via Venmo. If you need alternate payment arrangements please reach out to us. Reservations must be paid in full by June 15.

Namaste Studio

Kissamos, Crete, Greece