Exploring the rich flavors of Cretan extra virgin olive oil is a must-do activity for visitors to Chania. This 3-hour olive oil tasting trip whisks you away from the Souda Cruise Port on a scenic bus ride to the family-owned Biolea Astrikas Estate. Here, an expert guide unveils the fascinating process of traditional olive oil production, while the ancient Monumental Olive Tree, over 3,000 years old, sets the stage for unforgettable photo opportunities amidst the stunning Cretan countryside. With a wealth of sensory delights in store, this excursion promises to be a highlight of your cruise stop in Chania.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Chania.

Key Points

Olive Oil Tasting 3-Hour Trip From Chania Souda Cruise Port - Key Points

  • This 3-hour olive oil tasting trip from Chania Souda Cruise Port offers a guided tour and tasting at a family-owned olive mill, as well as a visit to the Monumental Olive Tree.

  • The tour is priced at $103.85 per person and includes hotel/port pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and air-conditioned transportation with WiFi.

  • The itinerary includes a 45-minute bus ride to the Biolea Astrikas Estate, a 65-minute guided tour and tasting at the olive mill, and a 25-minute visit to the Monumental Olive Tree.

  • Highlights of the trip include the opportunity to explore the oldest olive tree in the world, taste unique flavors and aromas of Cretan extra virgin olive oil, and learn about traditional production techniques.

  • The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy with a full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

Olive Oil Tasting 3-Hour Trip From Chania Souda Cruise Port - Tour Overview

This 3-hour olive oil tasting trip from Chania Souda Cruise Port offers visitors a chance to explore the production techniques and unique flavors of Cretan extra virgin olive oil.

Priced at $103.85 per person, this tour includes hotel/port pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and air-conditioned transportation with WiFi.

Guests will enjoy a guided tour and tasting at a family-owned olive mill, as well as a visit to the Monumental Olive Tree, a natural heritage monument.

With a duration of 3 hours, the tour provides ample time to discover the scenic beauty of the Cretan countryside and learn about the artisan production methods used to create these premium olive oils.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

Itinerary Details

Olive Oil Tasting 3-Hour Trip From Chania Souda Cruise Port - Itinerary Details

The tour begins with a pickup at the Port Souda Welcome Sign or the Port of Souda, followed by a 45-minute bus/coach ride to the Biolea Astrikas Estate. Upon arrival, guests will enjoy a guided tour and food tasting at the family-owned olive mill, learning about the artisan production techniques using traditional millstones and presses. This 65-minute experience is followed by a 25-minute visit to the Monumental Olive Tree, declared a "natural heritage monument," where guests can take photos. The tour concludes with a 45-minute return bus/coach ride to the drop-off locations.

Itinerary Step Duration
Pickup
Bus/Coach Ride 45 minutes
Guided Tour and Tasting 65 minutes
Visit to Monumental Olive Tree 25 minutes
Return Bus/Coach Ride 45 minutes

Highlights of the Trip

Olive Oil Tasting 3-Hour Trip From Chania Souda Cruise Port - Highlights of the Trip

Visitors can explore the oldest olive tree in the world, declared a ‘natural heritage monument,’ during their tour.

They’ll also have the opportunity to taste unique flavors and aromas of Cretan extra virgin olive oil while learning about the artisan production techniques used at the family-owned olive mill.

The guided tour allows guests to witness the traditional millstones and presses in action, providing an immersive experience into the olive oil-making process.

Beyond the olive oil tasting, the trip showcases the scenic beauty of the Cretan countryside, offering a picturesque backdrop for the experience.

Included in the Price

The tour price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation from the Chania Cruise Ship Port to the Biolea Astrikas Estate and back.

Visitors can enjoy bottled water and air-conditioned vehicles with on-board WiFi throughout the trip.

An expert guide will lead the tour of the family-owned olive mill, where guests can partake in an olive oil tasting experience. This allows travelers to learn about the unique flavors and aromas of Cretan extra virgin olive oil, as well as explore the traditional production techniques using millstones and presses.

The tour also includes a visit to the Monumental Olive Tree, a ‘natural heritage monument’ and one of the highlights of the excursion.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Additional Information

Starting times for the tour vary, so travelers should check availability. Itineraries are also subject to change. Plus, personal expenses aren’t included in the tour price.

The tour departs from the Port Souda Welcome Sign or Port of Souda, with a 45-minute bus/coach ride to the Biolea Astrikas Estate. There, visitors will enjoy a guided tour and food tasting at the family-owned olive mill, followed by a 25-minute photo stop at the Monumental Olive Tree.

The return journey takes another 45 minutes back to the drop-off locations. Guests are provided with bottled water and an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi onboard throughout the 3-hour excursion.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking this olive oil tasting tour is easy, with the option to reserve now and pay later. Travelers can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ensuring flexibility in their plans.

Here are four key details about booking and cancellation:

  1. Reserve your spot without paying upfront, and settle the balance later.

  2. Cancel your tour up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

  3. Tour times may vary, so be sure to check availability when booking.

  4. Any personal expenses beyond the listed inclusions aren’t covered.

With free cancellation and the option to book now and pay later, this olive oil tasting experience offers convenience and peace of mind for travelers.

Scenic Cretan Countryside

Travelers on this olive oil tasting tour will get to soak in the scenic beauty of the Cretan countryside, with the 45-minute bus ride taking them through picturesque landscapes. Along the way, they’ll catch glimpses of rolling hills, olive groves, and traditional villages.

The tour culminates with a visit to the Monumental Olive Tree, a natural heritage monument that’s over 3,000 years old. Visitors can take in the majesty of this ancient tree and capture stunning photos against the backdrop of the Cretan landscape.

This experience offers a chance to take in the serene beauty of the region, complementing the educational aspects of the olive oil tasting.

Family-Owned Olive Mill

At the heart of the olive oil tasting experience lies the family-owned Biolea Astrikas Estate, where visitors enjoy the artisanal production techniques that have been passed down through generations.

During the guided tour, guests will explore:

  1. The traditional millstones used to crush the olives, a process that preserves the natural flavors and aromas.

  2. The ancient olive presses, demonstrating the meticulous care taken in extracting the finest extra virgin olive oil.

  3. The state-of-the-art machinery that ensures the highest quality standards while respecting the time-honored methods.

  4. The passion and dedication of the family who’ve been tending to these olive groves for decades, sharing their deep knowledge and love for this cherished Cretan tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, you cannot bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes bottled water, and you’ll have the opportunity to taste the olive oil produced at the family-owned mill. The tour does not allow outside food or beverages.

What Should I Wear for the Tour?

For this tour, you should wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. The tour involves some walking and visiting an olive oil mill, so dress for the mild Mediterranean climate. Avoid overly formal attire and opt for casual, practical wear.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible. The itinerary includes transportation and guided visits that can accommodate guests with limited mobility. Visitors should contact the tour operator in advance to discuss any special needs or requirements.

Can I Customize the Tour to My Preferences?

The tour is generally fixed, but the operator may be able to accommodate some customizations upon request, such as adjusting the itinerary or preferences for the olive oil tasting. It’s best to inquire with the operator about any personalization options.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Olive Oil Tasting?

You don’t need any special equipment for the olive oil tasting. The tour provides everything you’ll need, including a guided tour and tastings of the unique flavors and aromas of Cretan extra virgin olive oil.

Recap

This olive oil tasting tour is a delightful way to take in Crete’s rich culinary heritage.

Visitors will explore a family-owned olive mill, witness centuries-old olive trees, and savor the distinct flavors of Cretan extra virgin olive oil.

With scenic countryside views and an expert guide, this 3-hour excursion offers a unique opportunity to discover the heart of Crete’s olive oil tradition.

You can check if your dates are available here: