Activities

An array of post-conference leisure activities have been envisaged for delegates and their accompanying persons who will have the options to taste the local delicacies, visit unique spots and unwind in magical beaches.

SOCIAL FUNCTIONS

WELCOME RECEPTION AND REGISTRATION | 19:30

On the evening of June 25th, prior to the conference commencement, delegates will have the chance to visit the venue to clear their registration procedure and join us for an ice-breaker drink in a relaxed atmosphere.

Complimentary for all Conference delegates
Location: Conference Venue

CRETAN CUISINE EXPERIENCE | 20:00

Conference delegates and their accompanying persons are invited to join us for a rich Cretan dinner at Chania Old Harbor on the evening of June 26th. The menu will include a variety of local delicacies and drinks at a highly recommended tavern. Following that, a night stroll through the labyrinth of countless little streets and along the never-sleeping esplanade will definitely help digestion!

Registration required: Book your ticket here
Price: 45€
Location: Salis Chania, 3 Akti Enoseos, Old Harbour, Chania
Transportation: Free shuttle to/from the restaurant

CONFERENCE BEACH PARTY | 20:00

Delegates and their guests and families are invited to our Conference Dinner Party on the 27th of June. The summer setting of the event and the beach vibes encourage a more personal communication in a relaxing environment under the beautiful Cretan night sky. A rich selection of Cretan food and drinks will excite our senses before the live music takes us to its rhythm. Vegetarian options will also be available.

Registration required: Book your ticket here
Price: 55€
Location: Euphoria Resort, Kolimvari Chania
Transportation: Free shuttle to/from the beach venue

ACCOMPANYING PERSONS PROGRAM

Our excursions are organized by an external travel agency, ‘Kyriakakis Travel’. All excursions will be open to other clients, excepting our Post-Conference Trip to Elafonissi beach, which will be private to 9ICEG participants and their family/friends.

TUESDAY, 27 JUNE

TRIP TO KNOSSOS PALACE AND HERAKLION CITY | Download Itinerary

Among the most important archeological sights of Crete is the complex of the palace of Knossos encapsulating the grandeur of the Minoan architecture and the fine lifestyle of the island-dwellers of the Bronze age. The 4000-years-old palace complex, which was brought to light at the beginning of the 20th century by Sir Arthur Evans, offers a realistic view of the crafts, industry and technology of the Minoan civilization with its paved roads, the installations for running water and the beautiful and delicate cultural artifacts and frescoes. Here was the residence of the famous King Minos, which according to the Greek Mythology built the Great Labyrinth to imprison his son, the Minotaur.

The scheduled field trip seeks for an unforgettable visit to the lost world of the Minoans and their inspiring myths. After the field trip, a visit to Heraklion city center will follow with a guided tour and free time, for coffee, shopping, and lunch.

Price: € 54 pp*
Duration: 11h30m (07:00-18:30)

* plus € 16/ $18 (15 €) entrance fee at Knossos + museum (paid on the bus in cash). Whisper tour included in price.

WEDNESDAY, 28 JUNE

BOAT TRIP TO GRAMVOUSA ISLAND & BALOS LAGOON BEACH | Download Itinerary

The cruise starts at the port of Kissamos, heading to Gramvousa – an islet that lies in the extreme northwestern part of Crete. There will you will have the chance to admire  the ancient shipyard ‘’Tarsanas’ and observe a rare geological phenomenon at the western coast of the island. You can also visit the Venetian fortress that covers the plateau of the Gramvousa island used as a hideaway by the pirates in the 18th century. In the midday you have the chance to swim and enjoy a snack on board. The trip leads further on to the bay of Balos, a lagoon, listed among the most beautiful beaches in the world that is famous for its fine coralline and sea-shell sand. Here you will have plenty of time to appreciate the unparallel landscape and panoramic views and enjoy a relaxed swim into the turquoise waters.

Price: € 55 pp* 
Duration: 10h5m (08:55-19:00)

* plus 1€ municipality fee payed in the bus

POST-CONFERENCE TRIPS

THURSDAY 29 JUNE

POST-CONFERENCE TRIP TO ELAFONISSI BEACH | Download Itinerary

Elafonisi is one of the most stunning  natural environments in Greece located at the southwestern part of Crete. It is known for its pink sand beaches, its crystal turquoise waters and its beautiful sand dunes with sea daffodils and junipers. The land is torn by the sea water in two parts, giving the impression of a separate island. When the weather is fine it is possible to walk from the mainland to the island through a shallow submerged sandbar and visit a “Natura 2000” protected area – home to loggerhead turtles and rare plants. Elafonisi is also ideal for children as they can have fun snorkeling or exploring the two small islands arriving there on foot over the shallow waters.

Price: € 30 pp 
Duration: 9h (09:00-18:00)

* This excursion is offered exclusively to our delegates and their friends and families.

POST-CONFERENCE TRIP TO SAMARIA GORGE | Download Itinerary

For those who love hiking and adventure, one of the most famous places to see is the Samaria Gorge. A 18km long National Park, it is the second largest in Europe. The gorge became a national park in 1962, particularly as a refuge for the rare ‘kri-kri’(Cretan goat), which is largely restricted to the park and protected by international law. There are several other endemic species in the gorge and surrounding area, as well as many other species of flowers and birds. The walk takes 4-8 hours, depending on your pace. Agia Roumeli village is where the walk ends, and you can enjoy a swim in the Libyan Sea or have lunch one of the many tavernas.

Price: € 40 pp* 
Duration: 14h50m (05:40-20:30)

* plus €5 entrance fee at Samaria Gorge & €13 boat ticket from Ag. Roumeli to Sougia