A Pilgrimage to the Goddesses and Sacred Island of Crete

(Crete prices start at *$2,695-$3,495, land package only. Includes all accommodation, Sacred Journeys facilitator, English speaking guide, all breakfasts, 6 dinners, all entrance fees,ground transportation, transfers from airport. *Fee valid until February 1st, 2006. Single supplement $695)

Join Nancy Leatzow and Alaura O'Dell, and journey to the Mediterranean to discover the ancient female-centered culture nestled within contemporary Crete. Encounter Spring herself, when the island is ablaze with wildflowers, fragrant herbs and tender greens. Explore museums, ancient ceremonial centers, and sacred caves on this pilgrimage through early Greek history and myth.

Our Crete Pilgrimage will take you on an exploration of the Greek goddesses as they were worshipped in the fascinating centers of Knossos, Phaistos, Agia Triada, Mallia, and Gournia. We will immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of this ancient island, enjoying the warm Aegean Sea, quiet springs, and sacred woods. We will come together in circle and create our own rituals, gathering the magical energy of this land, which, along with its many sacred sites and artifacts, has drawn visitors for centuries.

We will visit archeological and historical museums in Heraklion, and the Ilythia Cave which has had special significance for childbearing women throughout the ages. We will visit Minoan ceremonial centers, and walk into the mountains to see temples dedicated to Leto and Artemis. The Paliani Nunnery is home to a sacred Myrtle tree, and the seaside harbor of Hania has been described as the ³jewel of Crete². We will experience all of these amazing places and more! There will also be plenty of time for personal exploration, solitude, and relaxation.

Finally, we will spend some time in a magical village in the mountains of western Crete. There, we will stay in stone cottages lit only by candles, and feast upon delicious organic meals created from the bounty of local farms. This place, in particular, offers us a timeless adventure into the world of ancient Crete, and will help to ground us in the sacred Goddess cultures of the old world.

This spectacular, twelve-day journey to the sacred island of Crete is open to all women searching for travel of a different kind. We will bring women together who want to experience the rich spirituality and history which Crete offers. We have arranged a variety of accommodations including the above-mentioned stone cottages, as well as modern hotels situated in breathtaking locations. Your comfort and security are our priority and we endeavor to suit the needs of all our travelers. Please do not hesitate to call us if you have any questions about any of our tours.

Highlights of our Retreat:

• Ancient ceremonial centers of Knossos, Mallia, Gournia, Phaistos and Agia Triada.
• Caves of Ilythia, Arkoudiotissa, Hagia Sofia.
• Archeological and historical museums of Heraklion.
• Leto and Artemis Temples.
• Paliani Nunnery and Sacred Myrtle Tree.
• Samaria Gorge, one of Europe's most beautiful natural parks.
• Yoga and ritual at sacred sites.

* Please note- this is our proposed itinerary that may change

• Photo Gallery

For pricing & booking information