Operation Mercury is the fascinating story of a high-risk operation fought across a stunning Mediterranean landscape. Crete has to be one of the most beautiful Greek islands, and some would argue that there is no other place like it. To the modern mind it is known primarily as a beach holiday destination, however the landscape is wonderfully varied. From beaches and bays, to green coastal plains, imposing mountains and gorges, sleepy hillside villages to bustling, vibrant towns. Not to mention the warm, friendly, hospitable locals, a rich ancient and modern history and culture all of which we absorb as we examine the landings and hard-fought actions along the dramatic coast lines, in the towns of Chania, Rethymnon and Iraklion, in the White Mountains and down to the crystal-clear waters of Sfakia. Our hotels are situated in the centre of Chania and Heraklion, where there will be time available in the evenings to soak up the delightful atmosphere of tavernas and family restaurants. A very comfortable way to experience exciting history!

Operation Mercury was the first and only time in history that a strategic objective has been taken by airborne forces alone. Despite being forewarned by 'Ultra' Luftwaffe intelligence decrypts that an attack was pending, General Freyberg's Commonwealth mix of British, Australian and New Zealand forces, recently evacuated from Greece, were overrun by Hitler's elite Fallschirmjaeger (Parachute) regiments. Landing by both parachute and glider and backed up by air-landed mountain troops, the vastly out-numbered German forces managed to seize the island in the face of crippling losses. This will be a fascinating study revealing why experienced Commonwealth troops did not live up to expectations and why, whilst the German forces were successful, this was to be their last significant airborne operation.

Day 1: Travel to Crete
Fly from London Gatwick and/or assemble at Chania hotel for four nights. Introductory talk over pre-dinner drinks. (D)

Day 2: Maleme Airfield, Prison Valley and Galatas
We drive to Maleme and visit the German Assault Regiment gliding and parachute landing areas around the Tavronitis Bridge and the RAF Memorial. After climbing up Point 107, the vital high ground, we examine the costly German glider and parachute landings and the subsequent air landings under fire by the mountain troops to take the airfield, before visiting the German cemetery. The landings and attacks in Prison Valley and Galatas by the German Gruppe Mitte and the Commonwealth defence is covered from the Oassi Cretan Memorial, Lake Agia and Cemetery Hill. We visit the Allikanou Citizen Memorial to 108 villagers executed during German reprisals, as well as Galatas village and museum. (B,L,D)

Day 3: Chania and Souda Bay
The fighting around Chania and Souda Bay is covered with visits to the German Assault Regiment Memorial, 42nd Street and the Commonwealth War Memorial Cemetery. At the Venizelos Memorial we discuss General Freyberg's command on the Island against the German General, Student, based in Athens. The afternoon and evening are free to explore Chania or relax at your hotel. (B,L)

Day 4: The Allied Retreat and Evacuation
We drive the Allied retreat over the White Mountains to Chora Sfakia via the withdrawal route through Megali Horofia, Apterra Stilos, Neo Horia, Vrysses and Askifou. There is an optional walk through the Imbrou Gorge to the memorial which marks the evacuation point (weather permitting). (B,L,D)

Day 5: The battle for Rethymnon
We check out of our hotel and travel to Rethymnon via Frangokastello and the monastery of Prevalli. Near Stavromenos we discuss the 19th Australian Brigade fight to repel the landings from German Gruppe Mitte. Afterwards we drive on to Heraklion and check-in to our hotel for two nights. (B,L,D)

Day 6: The battle for Heraklion
We visit the Historical Museum of Crete and explore the fighting around the Heraklion area. During the afternoon we will visit the Minoan Palace at Knossos and explore some of old Heraklion. We will also learn the story of the Kidnap of Heinrich Kreipe, a story which was made into the film Ill Met by Moonlight. (B,L,D)

Day 7: Return
Continue to Heraklion airport for flights back to London Gatwick or leave the tour. (B)

Note: UK flights arrive in Chania but return from Heraklion