Bridge at the Kernos Beach Hotel, Crete

The 4-star Kernos Beach Hotel boasts a wonderful location, overlooking its long, white, secluded sandy beach and the sparkling blue Sea of Crete on the north coast of the island on the edge of Stalis. Each evening, you will be treated to the most amazing sunsets. Sunseekers can relax in the beautiful, extensive gardens and choose between a swim in the huge freshwater outdoor pool, or a dip in the ocean. The surrounding area is flat with plenty of cafes, bars, shops, and tourist facilities within a short walking distance of your hotel.

**Included excursions** Our first tour takes us by boat to the famous island of Spinalonga, a barren rocky islet that was built and fortified by the Venetians, and widely recognised for the established Leper Colony between 1903 and 1957.  A must see for any Victoria Hislop readers! A beautiful drive along the blue shades of the Gulf of Mirabello leads us to the delightful harbourside town of Agios Nikolaos, one of the most picturesque towns in Crete, for a guided tour and free time to explore and shop.

Our second guided tour takes us to Knossos, the Minoan Palace which flourished for approximately two thousand years and is connected with thrilling myths and legends. It is said to be the location of the labyrinth of the Minotaur and the story of Daidalos and Ikaros. We continue to Heraklion city where you have free time to shop and explore the Cretan capital or you can join us for a guided tour to the Archaeological Museum, which is one of the oldest and most important museums in Greece, and amongst the most famous in Europe.  It represents artefacts from all periods of Cretan prehistory and history spanning over 5,500 years from the Neolithic period to the Roman times, and prides itself for its unique Minoan collection.

*Entrance fees are included for Spinalonga and Knossos Palace, but the Archaeological Museum is an extra charge.