Why Crete Shines in the Off-Season: A Hidden Gem for Autumn Travelers

When thinking of planning an island escape, I know November isn’t the first month that springs to mind. But trust me on this! With mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and rich cultural experiences, Crete is at its authentic best during the off-season.

Our brand-new retreat is designed around exactly this kind of immersion and tranquility, as we showcase the serene side of Crete and give you the rare opportunity to experience the island in a way that only a few ever do.

Crete in autumn or early spring feels like a secret the island shares only with those open to look beyond the summer months. The beaches are quiet, the hiking trails much more inviting, and monasteries and villages welcome you without the rush of crowds. The air is mild and clear: perfect for long walks, morning yoga, and afternoons spent enjoying fresh, seasonal meals.

Our retreat draws you into this slower pace. Each day begins and ends with yoga, practiced in peaceful surroundings where the sound of the wind through the olive trees replaces the noise of summer. Hikes take you through valleys and along the southern coast boasting a rugged mountainous landscape that’s unlike anywhere else in Greece. 

One of the highlights is the trail to the tiny village of Loutro, accessible only on foot or by boat: no roads leading to it and no cars in the village at all, giving you the peaceful feeling of stepping back in time.

Our cultural immersion continues with a visit to the Arkadi Monastery, time in the pottery workshops of Margarites, or a stop in Preveli to explore its one-of-a-kind palm beach.

For those seeking a challenge, the optional climb to Psiloritis—Crete’s highest peak and the subject of many songs—offers sweeping views across the island and a close encounter with its rich flora and fauna, (including the iconic kri-kri goats)!

It isn’t a Nefeli Nine retreat without particular attention being paid to food. Cretan cuisine is world-renowned, and here it takes center stage. Expect meals prepared with seasonal, local ingredients: arguably the world’s best olive oil, mountain herbs, cheeses, and vegetables that warm the heart and soothe the soul. 

Just as important is the balance between adventure and rest. After a day of exploration, you’ll find time for peaceful relaxation: afternoons by the pool with a book in hand, a massage to ease tired muscles, or simply the pleasure of doing nothing at all.

To travel in Crete during the off-season is to see the island as it truly is. You connect with locals returning to their everyday lives, walk through landscapes renewed by rain or blooming with wildflowers, and discover that the quieter months hold a beauty and generosity all their own. 

This is your chance to experience the soul of the island: leaving not only with memories of stunning hikes and pristine beaches, but with the sense of having touched something authentic and truly timeless.

Have I convinced you? If so, I invite you to become one of the very first guests to experience this adventure with us. Learn more about what’s in store and book your spot.