An intriguing introduction to Minoan archaeology that combines the best elements of a holiday: a town hotel close to the harbour in Heraklion and a cosatal hotel with private beach, good food and a taste of the idyll of the countryside...

The famous "palace" sites of Knossos, Phaistos and Malia contrast well with the delightful and less well-known rural sites of Aghia Triada and the impressive hillside situations of Gournia and Chamaizi.

There is a particular charm and elegance to Minoan civilisation, demonstrated through lively and free artistic expression, and an obvious delight in realistic decoration with leaping sea creatures, beautiful young people, flowers and Mediterranean colours. A visit with an archaeologist here will unravel the threads of the past, and present you with theories new and traditional.