Enjoy Crete’s ancient olive traditions on this 3.5-hour experience. You’ll learn hands-on olive harvesting techniques as you pick olives in a scenic grove. Then, dive into the nuanced flavors of freshly pressed olive oil through a guided tasting, uncovering the impact of variety, terroir, and processing. Enjoy a delicious local lunch featuring regional specialties thoughtfully paired with the olive oil. With no additional costs, all transportation, and an intimate group size, this is the perfect way to gain a deeper appreciation for Crete’s liquid gold. Discover the labor and care behind each drop.
Key Points
- A 3.5-hour immersive experience to learn about the ancient traditions of olive harvesting and olive oil tasting in the Armenoi region of Crete.
- Hands-on opportunity to participate in the olive harvesting process, including hand-picking, shaking, and raking the olives.
- Guided tasting of freshly pressed extra virgin olive oil, with an emphasis on understanding the importance of variety, terroir, and processing methods.
- Sampling of local Cretan dishes and wines paired with the olive oil, allowing participants to fully appreciate the culinary culture.
- Small group tour limited to 8 participants, led by a knowledgeable local guide, providing a personalized and immersive experience.
About the Activity
This 3.5-hour olive harvesting and olive oil tasting experience allows participants to enjoy the ancient traditions of Crete.
The small group tour, limited to 8 people, provides a guided journey through an olive grove in the Armenoi region, offering a hands-on opportunity to learn about the art of olive harvesting. Guests will be captivated by the stunning views of the White Mountains and have the chance to participate in the harvesting process.
Following the olive picking, they’ll enjoy a guided introduction to extra virgin olive oil, as well as a tasting of the freshly pressed liquid gold accompanied by local products. This unique experience offers a deep dive into Crete’s rich culinary heritage.
Taste buds happy? More delicious discoveries we love in Armenoi
Location and Meeting Point
The experience takes place in the picturesque Armenoi region of Apokoronas, Crete, where you will meet at the designated olive grove. This charming meeting point offers stunning views of the White Mountains, known as the Lefka Oroi, providing a breathtaking backdrop for the olive harvesting adventure.
| Location | Meeting Point |
|---|---|
| Armenoi in Apokoronas region, Crete | Olive grove in Armenoi |
| Stunning views of the White Mountains | – |
Participants will join a small group of up to 8 others, led by a knowledgeable local guide, to embark on this immersive exploration of traditional olive harvesting and olive oil tasting.
Highlights of the Tour
During the olive harvesting and olive oil tasting experience, participants can look forward to an array of captivating highlights. They’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the White Mountains, also known as the Lefka Oroi, as they explore the picturesque olive groves.
The knowledgeable local guide will lead the small group, providing valuable insights into the ancient art of olive harvesting.
Highlights of the tour include:
- A guided introduction to extra virgin olive oil, with a tasting of the freshly pressed liquid gold.
- The opportunity to relax and savor a delicious lunch featuring local products.
- A chance to sample local wines, perfectly paired with the rich, flavorful olive oil.
- The hands-on experience of harvesting olives, immersing participants in the time-honored traditions of the region.
Hands-on Olive Harvesting
Participants will have the opportunity to actively engage in the centuries-old tradition of olive harvesting, as they don gloves and work alongside the local guide to carefully pick the ripe olives from the trees. This hands-on experience allows guests to fully enjoy the olive-picking process, learning the proper techniques and gaining a deeper appreciation for the labor-intensive nature of this ancient craft.
| Olive Harvesting Techniques | |
|---|---|
| Hand-Picking | Use a small comb to gently remove olives from the branches |
| Shaking | Shake the branches to release the olives, catching them in a net below |
| Raking | Use a small rake to gather the fallen olives on the ground |
Through this engaging activity, you will come away with a newfound respect for the hard work and dedication required to produce the high-quality olive oil they’ll later savor.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyGuided Olive Oil Tasting
Following the guided olive oil tasting, participants explore the nuanced flavors and aromas of the freshly pressed olive oil. Under the tutelage of the local expert, they swirl, sniff, and savor the oil, learning to detect its distinct characteristics and appreciate the subtle complexities that distinguish premium extra virgin olive oil.
The tasting session reveals:
- The importance of olive variety, terroir, and processing methods in shaping the flavor profile.
- How to properly evaluate an olive oil’s color, texture, aroma, and taste.
Techniques for pairing olive oil with regional specialties to enhance the overall dining experience.
The health benefits associated with high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
Relax and Enjoy Lunch
After the guided olive oil tasting, participants can kick back and savor a delightful lunch featuring locally-sourced ingredients. The meal showcases the region’s culinary traditions, allowing them to sample a variety of Cretan delicacies thoughtfully paired with the freshly tasted olive oil.
| Dish | Description | Ingredient Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Dakos | Traditional Cretan rusk with tomatoes, feta, and olive oil | Local farm |
| Dolmades | Grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and olive oil | Family garden |
| Moussaka | Eggplant, ground meat, and béchamel casserole | Family recipe |
The leisurely lunch provides an opportunity to further appreciate the nuances of the olive oil and take in the local culture. Participants can savor the flavors, share conversation, and leave feeling satisfied and enlightened.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes entrance fees for all activities and tastings, as well as applicable taxes and insurance. Participants won’t have to worry about additional costs during the experience.
The inclusions of this olive harvesting and olive oil tasting tour are:
- Guided introduction to the ancient art of olive harvesting
- Hands-on experience in picking olives from the groves
- Tasting of freshly pressed extra virgin olive oil
- Sampling of local Cretan products, such as wines, cheeses, and breads, during the included lunch
With these inclusions, guests can fully enjoy the local olive oil culture and traditions without any extra expenses. The tour provides a comprehensive and authentic olive-themed experience in Crete.
What to Bring and Wear
For the olive harvesting and olive oil tasting experience, participants should wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and bring sun protection such as a hat and sunscreen.
As the activity takes place outdoors in the olive groves, dressing in layers and bringing a light jacket is also recommended.
It’s important to wear clothing that can get dirty, as you will be hands-on with the olive harvesting.
Plus, bringing a reusable water bottle is a good idea to stay hydrated during the tour.
While the experience includes a tasting of olive oil and local products, participants may also want to bring cash for any optional purchases they’d like to make from the local producers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Keep the Olives I Harvest?
You can’t keep the olives you harvest during the experience. The olives are used for the olive oil tasting and lunch provided by the local host. Any extra olives are typically left for the olive grove’s owner.
Is the Tour Suitable for Vegetarians/Vegans?
The tour should be suitable for vegetarians and vegans, as it includes a lunch with local products. However, it’s best to check with the tour provider about the specific menu and offerings to ensure they meet one’s dietary requirements.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
There is no minimum age requirement for this activity, though it may not be suitable for very young children. The tour is open to participants of all ages, allowing families to enjoy the olive harvesting experience together.
How Long Does the Olive Harvesting Portion Last?
The olive harvesting portion typically lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing participants hands-on experience with the traditional techniques. This interactive activity is a key highlight of the overall 3.5-hour Olive Harvesting & Olive Oil Tasting experience.
Can I Purchase Olive Oil and Local Products On-Site?
Yes, participants can purchase olive oil and local products on-site during the olive harvesting and tasting experience. The experience includes a guided introduction to extra virgin olive oil and a tasting of freshly pressed olive oil as well as local products.
Recap
The Olive Harvesting & Olive Oil Tasting experience offers a captivating exploration of Crete’s olive-growing heritage.
Visitors will learn traditional harvesting techniques, savor the region’s renowned extra virgin olive oil, and indulge in local delicacies – all while surrounded by the stunning vistas of the White Mountains.
This immersive activity promises to ignite the senses and deepen one’s appreciation for Crete’s rich cultural traditions.
You can check if your dates are available here: