The sunsoaked island of Crete, the culinary capital of Greece, where ancient history is etched into every stone.
Whitewashed villages and grand Venetian fortresses.
The labyrinths of Chania and the ancient streets of Heraklion.
The historic legacy of the Minoans layered with thoughtful modern design.
The birthplace of European civilization. A food lover’s paradise. Private guides to show you the hidden backstreets and secret gems. High end hotels that feel like a dream.
And woven throughout all of it, the thread of philoxenia: the deeply Greek concept of welcoming strangers with overflowing hospitality and joy.
ANCIENT LAND OF ZEUS
A scenic dive into myth, legend and the Mediterranean in the
YOUR
CURATED
FEAST
On the first evening, we'll wander with a private guide through the stunning cultural crossroads of Chania. We'll explore the Venetian fortifications, the Arsenals, Greek Orthodox Cathedral, the Etz Hayim Synagogue, and the Turkish quarters, and wonder the whole time...
Where has Chania been all my liiiife?
We’ll begin with three days in Chania and move across the island for new views and flavors, ending with four nights in Elounda.
7 LUXE NIGHTS ON THE ISLAND OF THE GODS
HERE'S WHAT YOU'LL BE UP TO:
Sink your toes into the white and pink sands of Balos Beach on a private cruise to this tropical lagoon, one of the most unique in the world. Wade in the warm waters, visit the nearby castle, get your snorkel on, or just lounge in the sun with some wine (this is a Greek vacation after all).
We'll skip the normal tourist stops and visit quaint countryside orchards, wander through lush Greek orange and olive groves, sample wines from vintners far off the beaten path, and visit master artisans.
The remote culinary trails are calling our names... we'll visit a private olive oil estate, a local winery, and a rustic, family-owned restaurant overlooking the vast olive groves.
We'll make our way from Chania across the island to Heraklion, where the local food scene is waiting with open arms. We'll take a mouthwatering meander through colorful food shops and beloved local cafes as our private guide shows us the city's most important sites. An intimate glimpse into the living history of Heraklion and the rich traditions of Cretan gastronomy- all flavored with the hospitality of philoxenia.
What better way to soak up the mythology, history and traditions of this iconic land of ancient civilizations than on a private safari?In our humble opinions, we all belong in Land Rovers. We'll take them through verdant olive groves to the Dikti Mountains and cruise through a shepherd’s paddock, where you’ll milk goats and make fresh cheese, drink the shepherd’s raki (if you haven’t had Greek raki yet, strap in baby!), and meander the remote landscapes of Crete.
Visit the birthplace of Zeus, the impressive cave of Dikti and its imposing stalactites and stalagmites, and enjoy local dishes that only Grandma Niki knows how to bake in a wood oven. All in the same day.
Feeling small in all the best ways is an important part of travel... we'll stand under the massive plane tree in the 2000 year old village of Krasi and remember our place in the universe as we gaze up at its grandness.
We'll comb through the ruins of Knossos Palace, one of the preeminent archaeological sites in Greece and a rare glimpse into Minoan culture. With a private archaeology guide, the restored palace will come alive (picture it: us standing here in the Bronze Age).
A private cooking class in your 5 star villa! Meals with traditional Cretan dance and music! Tucked away restaurants far from the beaten path! Olive oils considered the fountain of youth! And the wine flowing like the salmon of Capistrano! You got it all, baby.
White Dinner - Moveable Feast Sicily 2018
In Chania, you’ll make yourself at home in a luxury room at either the Casa Delfino Hotel or the Domus Renier hotel.
Casa Delfino has been in the same family for six generations, and authentic charm and hospitality are the cornerstones of its heritage. You can take a sink into relaxation at the spa, have a drink on the spectacular rooftop terrace, or take a short stroll to the lively old town and its vast selection of museums, bars, restaurants, and shopping.
Domus Renier is a classic of Chania’s Venetian history and the Reniers, who lived in the building originally, were one of Venice’s prominent noble families. An architectural gem that has been lovingly restored in the very center of Chania.
In Elounda, you’ll settle into two of the most exclusive properties in Crete. Our off-the-beaten-path villas have panoramic views of the most magnificent Mediterranean sunrises and sunsets, infinity pools gazing out onto the Cretan landscape and gardens, and plenty of open air places to relax with a drink, a book, or a deep breath.
Philoxenia is a way of life on this vibrant island, where history, culture and food combine to create a unique and dreamy experience. Explore a world that bridges the past and the present– we can’t wait to fling open the doors to you at this highly curated Feast.
where you'll stay
"I absolutely loved the element of surprise you guys kept the whole week through. The need to know basis made things always feel exciting and fun. For example, cognac in the cave that then broke out into a dance party. Love love loved it. Also, the fact that there was so much story behind each meal, wine, cocktail, floral arrangement, etc was so fucking wonderful. It brought me to tears many times and I'll never forget it.
I loved arriving to that castle and seeing Laura greet me with tears in her eyes and champagne and a Chris (what an angel) pouring drinks. I mean, wtf was happening???? After a long train ride to arrive to something like that was beyond. So simple, so thoughtful, so impactful and a memory I will carry with me forever.
I would 1000% recommend Moveable Feast. Travel is something that has shaped my life and changed me in ways I could never have imagined. The people I have met, the lessons I have learned about myself, the dreams that have manifested due to putting myself in someone else's way of life. I am who I am today because of travel and so if someone asked me if MFR is worth it, I would say if you want your trip to be impactful, life changing, exciting, stress free and an opportunity to meet new people in a beautiful far away land, then yes. I mean, is the sky blue? Ok then."
-liz, provence 2021
"The Feast was one of the most important experiences of my life.
I prepared for the usual: I figured I’d show up, all tattooed, queer and polyamorous, and everyone there would find me annoying at best, but more likely (in my mind) insufferable and possibly even hate my character. I don’t think this way of myself, but I have often experienced a deep level of judgment simply because of certain parts of who I am. I’ve worked incredibly hard to be the person I am, to love others without reservation, to find a life worth living— and I’ve made peace with the fact that my worth cannot be seen by unwilling eyes. So I was prepared to make no friends, to be uncomfortable, and to just be myself anyway. Prepared, but dreading. I spoke with my therapist about it. I tried to lower my expectations and hopes for connection and community.
What actually happened was that I went out dancing with six other weirdos one night after our after-dinner cocktails; spent a day by the pool discussing relationships and travel and careers with a doctor, a lawyer, a tailor, an artist, and a yoga teacher; hiked up giant hills and staircases and trekked through castle dungeons with my 20 new friends; held a delicious baby for some grateful parents at the dinner table… I was just another person there. Because of course I was— I’m just some person. All the pieces of me showed up and danced with every other person’s full selves.
On the final night, Laura— one of the two founders of this incredible group— toasted each one of us. When she got to me, she said that simply by shining my own light so brightly, I empowered those around me to light themselves up, too. And that… broke me open. The same thing so many people have rejected in me, this whole group of strangers could see and embrace and even love. And Laura said it out loud (my favorite love language). I have to say, tears go well with champagne.
I can’t wait to be reunited with my friends both known and unknown. Forever grateful to be seen with such a loving gaze."
-callie, lisbon 2022
“The abbey was absolutely stunning and seeing the MFR team set up just outside with cocktails waiting and looking fabulous as always was the perfect start to the amazing week. It was really like the best start to a mix tape: start big and just keep going bigger! The introductions of local food and drink culture with almost every meal was perfect.
The biggest surprise came from the people though. If I were to try to write about all of my favorite experiences, I would just be writing a detailed log of the entire trip, but the people who gravitated to Tim and Laura that ended up on this trip were truly incredible. I feel enriched by the interactions with every single person we met.”
-ryan, sicily 2018
"As a solo traveler for the vast majority of my trips. I was worried about not having individual freedom and control over my trip, and how that might somehow result in a less fulfilling experience. Would the things I value in travel — culinary exploration, exposure to different cultures/settings, and enriching new social interactions, would those things be satisfied?
Wow, all my doubts were alleviated when we arrived at the castle with drinks and oysters waiting for us. The core piece of all my enjoyment was the people and the company. You guys were able to attract an amazing group of people with a similar zest for life. No matter the activity, it was the people that made it a truly special experience. And so much of that credit goes to you guys for fostering these attitudes and being exemplars of what it means to be “the highest and coolest version of myself.”
I would never have been able to stay at a cool castle like this, nor would I have been able to feel as "at home" or comfortable in my travel abode.
The trip was amazing. It was a rough year leading up to the trip and I was in a bit of a funk. Tim’s unwavering warmth, openness, guidance, and infections positive attitude, Laura’s amazingly sweet, empathetic, and tender reflections of all of the Feasters. Those words left a mark. You both encourage us to cultivate those ideals and traits in ourselves and even further. This retreat was exactly what I needed to lift my spirits and re-invigorate me. It has helped me re-engage in self-growth towards the person I want to be. So thank you for that."
-peter, provence 2021
I was most hesitant re: meeting up with a bunch of strangers in another country (what if they are scary weirdos?!) and whether the price tag was worth it.//To quote Pride and Prejudice, YES, a thousand times yes! I arrived at a train station to be picked up by a group of attractive, hilarious, kindly souls who felt like old friends. Once we arrived a la chateau, I was greeted with the freshest damn oysters and crisp champers- I basically felt like I had been transported to the Provence of the 1920s- it was all very Woody Allen and Midnight in Paris. My soul nearly burst.
-katie, provence 2016
When such time, care, and love is put into something so intentionally, it shows. From drinks and meals, accommodation and activities, learning and playing, this retreat was a wonderfully curated blend of magic. Thank you.
I got spectacular accommodation that I didn't have to research, a perfect blend of planned activities and downtime, and the opportunity to meet like-minded people without having to go out on my own.
I have already been telling my friends they need to go on a Feast. I only tell people I really truth, though, don't worry. The time, care, and love put into EVERY SINGLE DETAIL of this trip was evident in our activities, meals, and environment. Moveable Feast allowed me to experience a place in a way I never have.
-rachel, sicily 2018
YOUR HOSTS
We want you to experience the best of each country and culture— from the most luxurious boutique hotel on a remote coast of Crete to the best local street food on the island. Travel with an eye for design, quality and joy, without snobbery or blandness. We’re partnering with Curated Greece and The Steuber Travel Group to bring you the best of Crete from a local perspective— and we can’t wait to (figuratively, maybe) bathe in olive oil on this beloved corner of the Greek islands.
Founders
Moveable Feast Retreats
TIM AND LAURA SULLIVAN
Moveable Feast Retreats FOUNDERS
What’s Included:
luxury accommodations at two of the best hotels on Crete
most breakfasts, lunches and dinners (and occasionally you will have freedom to choose your own!)
wine tastings, pairings at dinner, and happy hours
private cruise, private safari, intimate wine tour, custom food tours
multiple curated excursions both in town and the under-the radar outskirts
enough inspiration that you might have to check a bag home.
luxury accommodations at two of the best hotels on Crete
most breakfasts, lunches and dinners (and occasionally you will have freedom to choose your own!)
wine tastings, pairings at dinner, and happy hours
private cruise, private safari, intimate wine tour, custom food tours
multiple curated excursions both in town and the under-the radar outskirts
enough inspiration that you might have to check a bag home.
Le Pricetag
OCTOBER 2nd - 9th, 2024
(per person)
(per person)
(Don’t have a travel buddy and want to be matched with one? We got you! We'll have two twin beds whenever possible. Otherwise, you'll share a large king bed.)
Reserve your spot with a €2500 deposit down, with the remaining payments due March 15th and August 15th.
Feasts frequently sell out within 48 hours– if this trip is calling your name… let’s go.
Shared Room
Solo Room
Refund policy:
Because of the boutique, custom nature of each trip, we invest a lot into each traveler’s spot– but we also want to make Feasting as easy and risk-free as possible! We know that plans change: our flexible cancellation policy is below.
Deposit: trip deposits are non refundable, but they are transferable. You can pass your deposit on to another traveler to take your spot on a Feast, or use it for a future trip within one calendar year.
90+ days prior to a Feast: 75% of your payments will be refunded (minus credit card fees and deposit).
60+ days prior to a Feast: 50% of your payments will be refunded (minus credit card fees and deposit).
30+ days prior to a Feast: 25% of your payments will be refunded (minus credit card fees and deposit).
<30 days prior to a Feast: no refund will be provided
In the unlikely event of a cancellation from our side due to unforeseen circumstances (natural disasters, political instability, vendor cancellation, etc), we will send full or partial refunds commensurate with the uncompleted portions of the trip.
We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to cover any circumstances that may lead to cancelation either prior to or during a trip.
€11, 650
€9,000
