Agios Nikolaos: Private Cretan Hills and Beaches Inc. Lunch

Agios Nikolaos, a picturesque town nestled on the northeastern coast of Crete, offers an enticing private tour that combines the region’s stunning natural landscapes with its rich culinary heritage. The "Cretan Hills and Beaches Inc. Lunch" experience promises an immersive journey through the island’s charming villages, hidden beaches, and olive groves, culminating in a traditional Greek feast that celebrates the flavors of Crete. Whether you’re seeking a unique adventure or a deeper connection with the local culture, this tour provides a curated glimpse into the essence of the island, whetting your appetite for the discoveries that lie ahead.

This experience made our list of the 22 Best Lunch Experiences In Greece.

Key Points

• This private tour from Agios Nikolaos includes a scenic drive through olive groves, olive oil tasting, dolmades making, Greek lunch, and a speedboat ride to Spinalonga.
• The 7-hour tour provides an immersive experience in Cretan culture, history, and traditions, with visits to Kritsa village and the Spinalonga fortress island.
• Pricing for the tour starts at $314.32 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and hotel/cruise ship pickup included.
• The tour supports local family-owned businesses and fosters sustainable cultural exchange, with hands-on experiences and interactions with the Cretan community.
• Key highlights include exploring Kritsa’s artisan workshops, learning traditional dolmades preparation, and discovering the rich history and scenic beauty of Spinalonga.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This private tour through the Cretan hills and beaches offers an immersive experience, priced from $314.32 per person and lasting 7 hours.

Pickup is included from hotels or cruise ships in Elounda/Agios Nikolaos, and there’s free cancellation with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Visitors will embark on a scenic drive through olive groves to the charming village of Kritsa, where they’ll explore its history, artisan workshops, and the Panagia Kera Church.

An olive oil tasting and hands-on experience making traditional Greek dolmades are also part of the itinerary, followed by a Greek-style lunch and a speedboat ride to the historic Spinalonga fortress island, with opportunities for swimming.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a scenic drive through picturesque olive groves, leading visitors to the charming village of Kritsa, where they’ll explore its rich history, artisan workshops, and the magnificent Panagia Kera Church.

At a local farm, they’ll enjoy an olive oil tasting accompanied by regional wine, followed by a hands-on experience in making traditional Greek dolmades.

The gastronomic journey continues with a Greek-style lunch featuring Cretan Dako, salad, tzatziki, and local drinks.

The adventure then takes them to the historic Spinalonga fortress island, where they can:

• Discover its Venetian and Ottoman history

• Enjoy a refreshing swim at the nearby Plaka village beach

• Explore the island’s ruins and fortifications

• Admire the stunning views of the Mirabello Gulf

Cultural Experiences

Throughout the tour, visitors enjoy the local traditions and history of Crete, gaining insight into the island’s rich cultural heritage.

At the charming village of Kritsa, they explore artisan workshops and the captivating Panagia Kera Church, uncovering the area’s unique artistic and architectural influences.

On top of that, the hands-on experience in making traditional Greek dolmades allows them to connect with Crete’s culinary traditions firsthand.

The tour also delves into the island’s agricultural practices, with an olive oil tasting at a local farm that showcases the importance of this integral crop.

Tour Inclusions

Comprehensive inclusions enrich the private Cretan Hills and Beaches tour, providing visitors with an immersive cultural experience.

A traditional Greek lunch showcases seasonal local dishes, complemented by tastings of regional wine and raki. Refreshments, including coffee, iced tea, seasonal fruit, and snacks, ensure travelers stay rejuvenated throughout the day.

An experienced English-speaking guide lends expertise, offering personalized tips for discovering local bars and eateries.

The thrilling speedboat ride, led by a professional skipper, transports guests to the historic Spinalonga fortress island, allowing for memorable swimming opportunities.

The tour inclusions offer:

• A traditional Greek lunch with seasonal dishes

• Local wine and raki tastings

• Refreshments and snacks

• Personalized guidance from an expert English-speaking local

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Community Impact

The tour’s community impact extends beyond just the individual experience, as it actively supports local family-owned businesses and engages with the Cretan community and culture.

By incorporating hands-on cooking experiences with traditional methods, the tour directly benefits the local farmers and stock-breeders who supply the fresh, seasonal ingredients.

The olive oil tasting at a family-owned farm further showcases the region’s agricultural traditions.

Plus, the tour encourages interaction with the local community, allowing guests to enjoy Cretan history and traditions.

This holistic approach ensures that the tour’s benefits are shared with the broader Cretan community, fostering a sustainable and meaningful cultural exchange.

Kritsa Village Exploration

Typically, the tour begins with a scenic drive through the olive groves to the charming village of Kritsa, where guests have the opportunity to enjoy the rich history and local artisanry of this picturesque Cretan settlement.

Visitors can explore Kritsa’s winding streets, lined with traditional homes and artisan workshops, and visit the Panagia Kera Church, a magnificent 13th-century Byzantine structure renowned for its well-preserved frescoes.

The tour also includes:

• A guided walkthrough of the village, highlighting its unique architectural features and cultural significance.

• Visits to local workshops showcasing traditional Cretan crafts such as weaving, pottery, and jewelry-making.

• An opportunity to interact with the friendly villagers and learn about their daily lives and customs.

• Time to browse the local shops and markets for authentic souvenirs and artisanal products.

Olive Oil Tasting and Dolmades Making

After exploring the charming village of Kritsa, the tour continues with an immersive olive oil tasting and dolmades making experience at a local family-owned farm.

Guests will learn about the region’s rich agricultural heritage as they sample premium olive oils and pair them with local wines, followed by a hands-on demonstration of traditional Greek dolmades preparation.

The olive oil tasting allows visitors to appreciate the nuances and complexities of Crete’s acclaimed olive production.

Meanwhile, the dolmades making activity provides an opportunity to engage with local culinary traditions, as participants learn to expertly roll and stuff grape leaves with a savory rice and herb filling.

This unique cultural experience offers a delightful blend of flavors and traditions.

Spinalonga Fortress Island Visit

Following a leisurely lunch featuring Cretan specialties, guests embark on an exciting speedboat ride to the historic Spinalonga fortress island, where they enjoy the island’s captivating past.

Visitors explore the well-preserved Venetian and Ottoman-era structures, uncovering stories of the island’s turbulent history, which includes serving as a leper colony in the 20th century.

The tour highlights include:

• Climbing the formidable walls and towers for panoramic views of the surrounding sea and coastline.

• Discovering the former leper colony’s haunting yet poignant history.

• Wandering through the ruins and imagining the vibrant community that once thrived on the island.

• Learning about the strategic importance of Spinalonga’s location and its role in regional conflicts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for This Private Tour?

The tour is a private experience, so the group size is flexible and tailored to the client’s preferences. The tour can accommodate small groups or individual travelers seeking a personalized exploration of the Cretan hills and beaches.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to fit the traveler’s interests. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility in the itinerary, ensuring a personalized experience that caters to the preferences of the individual or group.

Are Child-Friendly Activities and Accommodations Available?

Yes, the tour offers child-friendly activities and accommodations. The itinerary includes a hands-on dolmades cooking class, swimming opportunities, and a comfortable transfer service. The local guide can also customize the experience to suit families’ needs.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour offers accommodations and activities accessible for individuals with disabilities. Guests should coordinate any special needs with the tour operator in advance. The tour route and transportation can be customized to ensure a comfortable experience.

Can I Purchase Additional Souvenirs or Local Products During the Tour?

Yes, the tour allows participants to purchase additional souvenirs or local products during the stops in Kritsa village and at the olive oil farm. There’ll be opportunities to browse artisan workshops and select traditional Cretan crafts or delicacies.

Recap

The Agios Nikolaos: Private Cretan Hills and Beaches Inc. Lunch offers a captivating exploration of Crete’s natural and cultural riches.

Guests embark on a scenic drive, seeing the region’s picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and local culinary traditions.

This personalized tour provides an authentic experience, showcasing the island’s beauty and allowing visitors to savor the flavors that make Crete a renowned destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: