Crete 2024

Our hotel

Pilot Beach Resort

Georgioupoli 730 07 pilot-beach.gr

Set against the beautiful, blue backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea, 5-star Pilot Beach Resort is the ideal setting for an island getaway.

Take advantage of the resort’s close proximity to nature, including the Preveli Palm Forest, Kournas Lake, and Argiroupoli Springs. Explore local history, culture, and food and drink with excursions to nearby cities like Chania and Heraklion and landmarks like the Agia Triada monastery and the Knossos Archeological site.

Resort Amenities

  • 4 restaurants and 3 bars, from traditional Greek cuisine to sushi
  • 4 outdoor pools, 1 indoor pool
  • spa with massage rooms, beauty parlor, sauna, and more
  • fitness facilities, including gym, and private workout studio
  • 4+ miles of private beach on the shores of the Aegean Sea
  • laundry service (free)
  • car and bike rentals

Room Amenities

  • TV, wifi
  • mini-fridge, coffee & tea maker

Our itinerary

Day 1: Friday, Oct 4

________

Arrivals:
Arriving guests will be greeted by iE USA staff before heading to Pilot Beach Resort. Once at the hotel, you will check into your room and have time to freshen up before our Welcome Reception & Dinner.

Day 2: Saturday, Oct 5

________

Breakfast
Breakfast at hotel

6 a.m.-6 p.m.: Free time/time for excursions

Lunch

Dinner

Day 3: Sunday, Oct 6

________

Breakfast
Breakfast at hotel

9 a.m.-noon: Staff meeting for all staff and LCs (free time for guests)

9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.: Quad Safari option for guests (Group #Quad 1)

Lunch (all guests are invited to join)

3-7 p.m.: Free time/time for excursion:

  • Quad safari (Group #Quad 2)
  • Greek cooking event (Group #Greek 1)

Dinner

Day 4: Monday, Oct 7

________

Breakfast
Breakfast at hotel

Free time or Excursion: Knossos & Retyhmno (all day)

Dinner

Day 5: Tuesday, Oct 8

________

Breakfast
Breakfast at hotel

6 a.m.-7 p.m.: free time/time for excursions:

  • 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.: Jeep Off-road tour (Group #Jeep 1)
  • Greek cooking (Group #Greek 2)

    Dinner

    Day 6: Wednesday, Oct 9

    ________

    Breakfast
    Breakfast at hotel

    6 a.m.-7 p.m.: Free time/Time for excursions:

    • Imbros Gorge Hike (Group #Imbros)
    • Boat tours
      • 9 a.m.-noon (#Boat 1)
      • 1-4 p.m. (#Boat 2)
      • 5-8 p.m. (#Boat 3)

    Lunch

    Dinner 

    Day 7: Thursday, Oct 10

    ________

    Breakfast
    Breakfast at hotel

    6 a.m.-7 p.m.: Free time/time for excursions:

    • 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Jeep Off-Road tour (Group #Jeep 2)
    • Olive farm tour

    Lunch

    Farewell dinner

    Day 8: Friday, Oct 11

    ________

    Breakfast & Check-out

    Farewell & Transfer to airport

    EXCURSIONS

    Go Off the Beaten Path

    Quad Safari Tour

    duration: ~4 hrs

    Take adventure into your own hands and explore the island on 2-seat quads! This tour will get your heart racing — and give you a thrilling insight into Crete’s landscape. From your ATV quad or buggy, you’ll see stunning mountain views, hidden hills and gorges, all guided by a local who knows the island well and will share all about Cretan culture.

    *All drivers must have a valid drivers’ license; closed-toe shoes are a must, as well as comfy clothes you’re ok with getting a little dirty. Snack and water are provided throughout the tour.

    Jeep Off-Road Tour

    duration: all day

    Buckle up for an exciting, one-of-a-kind look at Greece’s largest island. Some highlights will include enjoying morning coffee under a 2,000 year-old tree, visits to a Byzantine church, a traditional cafe offering local products like honey, raki, and oregano, and a private beach, and most of all, taking in all of the mystery and beauty that Cretan culture has to offer.

    Note: Wear closed-toe shoes, but make sure to pack your swimsuit and flip flops!

    Imbros Gorge Canyon Hike

    duration: 2-3 hours

    Head south through the Askifou Mountains toward the village of Imbros on this 8 km, 2-3 hour hike.  Plus, take advantage of an opportunity for a beach swim at the end of our journey! 

    Please note: While this hike is doable for anyone who is in good health and good on foot, much of it is a decline from 780 meters — if you have knee issues or any other condition you believe might make this an issue, please let us know what other activity you’d be interested in doing.

    Experience Crete

    Boat Safari

    Duration: ~ 3 hrs

    Make sure to pack your swimsuit and sunscreen for this 5-person maritime adventure. You’ll tour the crystal blue waters of Georgioupolis, taking in stunning nature and wildlife views you won’t see anywhere else.

    Olive Farm Tour & Botanical Gardens

    duration: all day

    Visit Crete’s stunning botanical garden and olive oil farm to explore more of the island’s flora and fauna. Of course, a visit to an olive farm would not be complete without an olive oil tasting (bonus: wine and local snacks).

     

    City Tour of Knossos & Rethymno

    duration: all day

    This excursion will take you straight to the heart of Minoan Crete. Visit the palace that was the prosperous Minoan capital and residence of legendary King Minos. This intriguing historical site was designed in a way that “no visitor could find their way out without the help of a guide” (it’s said to be the source of the legend of the labyrinth) — luckily, a guide is included, along with lunch.

    FAQ’s & Helpful info

    What do I need to prepare ahead of the trip?
    • Bring the correct travel documents. U.S. citizens and permanent residents do not need a visa to visit Greece but please review your airline’s website for any travel requirements.
    • Review the recommended packing list (will be sent to you a couple of weeks ahead of departure).
    • Exchange currency.Get travel insurance (optional).
    • Download WhatsApp and get a temporary international data plan for the duration of the stay.
    What will the weather be like?

    The weather in October is generally mild and pleasant, making it a great time to visit Greece. In Crete specifically, due to proximity to the ocean, temps remain warm, usually between 60-80°F during the day (slightly cooler during the evening).

    What is the dress code? What clothing items are recommended?

    Lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen are totally appropriate, and layers are a smart idea since it tends to be a little warmer during the day and cooler in the evening.

    Make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes so you can explore all the island has to offer!

    Do I need to bring Euros?

    It is recommended to bring some cash to use at smaller businesses like local convenience stores, and for tipping. When using debit or credit card, be aware of fees for using your card abroad. Many business also utilize Google Pay or Apple Pay, but it is best to have cash or card on-hand.

    What meals are included?

    Hotel breakfasts as well as all dinners listed on our itinerary are included.

    The mini bar in your room is a private expense paid by the individual room occupants on check-out.

    Are there special rules about smoking?

    In general, smoking in indoor spaces is not allowed (includes vaping, e-cigarettes, etc.), while smoking outdoors is acceptable. At the resort, smoking is not allowed in the rooms or public indoor areas while there are designated smoking areas available outside.

    Who will I share a room with?

    If you are a solo traveler, you will receive an email with information about who you will be sharing a hotel room with.

    Will I receive details about meeting times, locations, etc. ahead of time?

    Yes, the itinerary will include most of those details. Our team also knows the itinerary well and will be able to answer questions, or provide guidance.

    What should I know about Crete?

    Here are a few things to know about Crete:

    1. Known for their hospitality, Cretan people are friendly and welcoming. It’s customary to greet locals and engage in conversation.

    2. Tipping is optional. While it is not expected, it certainly is appreciated for restaurants and other services like the hotel spa. It is also okay to leave a few coins or bills in lieu of calculating a specific tip percentage.

    3. Crete, Greece’s biggest island, is known for its rich historical landmarks; when visiting churches and monestaries, dressing modestly is important to show respect. Otherwise, shorts and t-shirts are completely appropriate when walking around and exploring the island.

    4. The official language is Greek, with written language using the Greek alphabet, but many locals speak English, and signage will often include information written in the English alphabet as well.

    5. Tap water is generally considered safe to drink.

    6. Grecian sewage pipes are often much narrower than elsewhere in the world, so some places may ask you to not flush toilet paper when using the restroom.