South Round Trip – VIP Private Tour

A private exploration of Crete’s southern charms—this VIP tour offers a tailored journey through some of the island’s most scenic spots, all for just $41. In about 6 to 7 hours, you’ll visit the tranquil Kournas Lake, the lush waterfalls of Argiroupoli, the dramatic Kotsifou Gorge, the inviting sands of Plakias Beach, and the wild beauty of Kourtaliotiko Gorge. Led by a professional driver, the experience is flexible—adjusting stops and timing to suit your preferences, making it a perfect choice for those who value comfort and authenticity.

Two aspects we especially appreciate are the personalized nature of this tour, with the vehicle exclusively for your group, and the variety of landscapes—from peaceful lakes and waterfalls to rugged gorges and stunning beaches. The fact that the stops are all free of admission fees adds to the great value; you only pay for the tour itself.

A possible consideration is that with a 6–7 hour schedule, it’s a fairly full day, so travelers who prefer a more leisurely pace or multiple relaxed stops might find it a bit packed. Still, the flexibility allows for some adjustment if you want to linger longer at certain spots.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to experience a diverse slice of Crete’s natural beauty without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple bookings. It’s also suited to those who love authentic scenery, picturesque villages, and a touch of the wild side of this island. If you’re after a private, flexible day out that combines nature, local color, and coastline, this tour could be just right.

Key Points

• Private and flexible: The entire vehicle is yours, with stops and timing adjusted to your preferences.
• Diverse scenery: From lakes and waterfalls to gorges and beaches, this tour covers a broad spectrum of Crete’s natural beauty.
• Cost-effective: At $41, the price includes personalized service and scenic highlights, with free entry to all stops.
• Authentic experiences: Expect genuine landscapes, with a chance to relax, swim, and take memorable photos.
• Ideal for nature lovers: Perfect for those who want an active, scenic day without the crowds.
• Limited time for stops: While stops are generally short and sweet, it’s a full schedule, so plan for a busy day.

In-Depth Review of the South Round Trip – VIP Private Tour

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

What sets this tour apart is the personalized approach. Unlike group tours that follow a rigid schedule, this VIP experience adapts to your interests. The dedicated vehicle and driver mean you won’t be stuck with strangers—an advantage if you prefer private, intimate outings. The price point of $41 offers excellent value, especially considering the flexibility and the scenic variety packed into a single day. The tour’s focus on natural beauty and authentic spots makes it ideal for travelers wanting a genuine taste of Crete’s outdoors.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Let’s explore each stop in detail, highlighting what makes each unique and why it’s worth your time.

Lake Kournas

This is the only freshwater lake on the island, surrounded by hills and a lush landscape. We loved the peaceful atmosphere here—an excellent spot to unwind and soak in the scenery. The free admission means you can enjoy the views without worrying about extra costs, and the 30-minute stop allows for a quick walk around or a photo session. The calm waters also invite a dip if you want to cool off.

Argiroupoli

This village is a refreshing change from the busier tourist spots. Known for its waterfalls and mountain air, it offers a peaceful walk through traditional scenery. The 30-minute stop gives enough time to explore, listen to the water’s gentle rush, and maybe snap a few photos of the cascading streams. It’s an authentic slice of rural Crete, perfect for nature lovers.

Kotsifou Gorge

Here, the scenery becomes more dramatic. The stone church carved into rocks is a striking sight, blending history with geology. The 15-minute stop is brief but sufficient for a quick look and a photo of this unusual feature. The gorge itself, with its rugged beauty, is a reminder of Crete’s wild landscapes—ideal for those who love dramatic scenery.

Plakias Beach

This is a highlight for many travelers. The long sandy beach with clear waters of the Libyan Sea offers ample space to relax, swim, or sunbathe. We appreciated the 2-hour stop, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the beach, grab a snack, or even visit a local pool bar. The beach’s natural beauty and inviting waters make it a perfect spot to unwind after the morning’s sightseeing.

Kourtaliotiko Gorge

Concluding the day with this wild gorge, you’ll see Crete’s rugged and untouched side. The 15-minute stop provides an opportunity for photos—capture the towering cliffs and rushing waters. The scenery here is truly impressive and memorable, a fitting end to a day of varied landscapes.

What Travelers Say

The only detailed review from a traveler named Vasilis echoes the overall positive impression. They mention feeling well-looked after, with a safe and patient driver. Highlights included lots of scenic stops, a beach, a pool bar, tastings, and lunch, which seem to suggest the tour is well-rounded. The mention of unlimited food, drink, and raki indicates that the experience is not just about scenery but also about enjoying local flavors and hospitality.

Practical Considerations

The tour runs every day from 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM (with some flexibility), so you can plan accordingly. Because it’s a private tour, you won’t have the rush of a large group, but be prepared for a full day of travel and sightseeing. The cost of $41 is quite reasonable, especially considering the private service and scenic diversity. Remember, since all stops are free of charge, your main expense is the tour fee itself.

Transportation & Comfort

Travel is in a dedicated vehicle for your group, which means comfort and privacy. The vehicle’s size and amenities aren’t specified, but given the private nature, you can expect a comfortable ride suitable for a small to medium group.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to nature enthusiasts, those who enjoy stunning landscapes and authentic villages, and travelers who prefer customized, private outings over crowded tours. It’s particularly suitable if you want to combine a bit of adventure with moments of relaxation, such as beach time or scenic walks.

The Sum Up

This South Round Trip VIP Private Tour offers a fantastic way to experience some of Crete’s most captivating natural sights without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. The flexibility, personal service, and diverse scenery make it a strong value at just $41. You’ll visit tranquil lakes, lush waterfalls, dramatic gorges, and a lovely sandy beach—all in one day, with plenty of opportunities to take photos and relax.

If you’re seeking a personalized, scenic adventure that balances exploration and leisure, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It works well for travelers who want to see the best of the south coast without feeling rushed, especially if you enjoy nature, photography, and authentic local landscapes.

However, keep in mind that the day can be quite full, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or more extensive stops, you might need to adjust expectations or discuss your preferences with the driver. But for those eager to explore a variety of Crete’s stunning outdoor spaces in a comfortable, private setting, this experience offers a memorable and well-rounded journey.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate. It’s designed to be flexible and comfortable, though younger children might need supervision for some stops like waterfalls or gorges.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts roughly 6 to 7 hours, including travel and stops, so it’s a full but manageable day out.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, the tour fee does not cover food or drinks, but the mention of a pool bar and lunch suggests you’ll have opportunities to buy refreshments, especially at Plakias Beach.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, the driver will adjust the schedule to your preferences, making it a flexible experience.

Is there an entrance fee for any of the stops?
No, all stops listed are free of admission fees, which adds to the overall value.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, swimwear if you plan to swim, sun protection, and perhaps a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

This private tour offers a well-balanced day of exploration, relaxation, and authentic Crete scenery. Perfect for travelers wanting a personalized experience, it’s a solid choice for a memorable day on the island’s southern coast.