Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, Olive Oil Factory

Spinalonga, a historic island off the coast of Crete, holds a dark yet captivating past as a former leper colony. Visitors can explore its well-preserved ruins and gain insights into this profound chapter of history. The tour then ventures to the charming lakeside town of Agios Nikolaos, where travelers enjoy the local culture and traditions, including a visit to the Bioaroma Olive Oil Factory. Here, they’ll discover the meticulous processes behind creating Crete’s renowned olive oil, an integral part of the Mediterranean diet. With this wealth of experiences, the tour promises to enlighten and captivate those seeking a deeper understanding of Crete’s rich heritage.

Key Points

• The tour includes a visit to the historic island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony with well-preserved remnants and stunning natural beauty.
• Travelers will explore the charming lakeside town of Agios Nikolaos, including a guided tour and a visit to the Bioaroma Olive Oil Factory.
• At the Bioaroma Olive Oil Factory, visitors can learn about the production process, sample different olive oil varieties, and purchase premium products.
• The tour also includes a visit to the Vassilakis Estate, where travelers can learn about traditional and modern olive oil production methods.
• Guests will have the opportunity to relax at the idyllic Voulisma Beach and enjoy the serene Mediterranean atmosphere.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Duration and Languages

This tour lasts 8 hours and is offered in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Greek, Polish, Russian, and Spanish. Travelers have the option to choose from these language choices for both the guided portions and the included audio guide.

Whether you’re exploring the island of Spinalonga, strolling through the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, or visiting the Bioaroma Olive Oil Factory, you’ll be able to fully learn about the experience thanks to the availability of these language options.

The tour’s comprehensive itinerary and knowledgeable guides ensure that you’ll have a memorable and enriching experience throughout the day.

Pickup and Payment Details

The tour offers pickup and drop-off service from 61 different locations within the North Heraklion region, ensuring convenient access for travelers.

Payments can be made later, allowing customers to reserve their spot now and settle the balance closer to the tour date. This flexible payment option provides customers with the freedom to plan their trip without immediate financial commitment.

The tour also accommodates a variety of languages, including English, French, German, Greek, Polish, Russian, and Spanish, catering to the diverse needs of international visitors.

With these convenient pickup and payment arrangements, the tour makes it easy for guests to experience the highlights of Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, and the Bioaroma Olive Oil Factory.

Monastery of St. George Selinari

The tour kicks off with a photo stop and visit to the Monastery of St. George Selinari, a picturesque religious site nestled in the scenic Selinari region.

Guests will have the chance to explore the monastery’s serene grounds and admire its well-preserved Byzantine architecture. The guide will provide insights into the site’s rich history and cultural significance, highlighting its role as an important hub for Orthodox Christian worship over the centuries.

Visitors can wander through the monastery’s tranquil courtyards, visit the on-site chapels, and learn about the daily life of the resident monks. This stop offers a glimpse into Crete’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions and allows travelers to enjoy the island’s enduring cultural heritage.

Plaka Marina and Spinalonga Island

Departing from the serene Plaka Marina, the group embarks on a captivating journey to the historic island of Spinalonga, once a leper colony and now a poignant testament to Crete’s complex past.

The guided tour on the island offers visitors a remarkable opportunity to:

1. Explore the well-preserved remnants of the former leper colony, including the hospital, church, and the local residents’ homes.
2. Gain insights into the island’s dark yet fascinating history and the plight of those who were once exiled to this remote outpost.
3. Appreciate the stunning natural beauty of the island, with its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters.

As the group wanders through the evocative streets of Spinalonga, they’re transported to a bygone era, leaving with a deeper understanding of Crete’s enduring resilience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Elounda and Agios Nikolaos

After exploring the captivating island of Spinalonga, the tour continues to the picturesque town of Elounda, where participants enjoy a brief photo stop and have free time to soak in the serene atmosphere.

The next destination is Agios Nikolaos, a charming lakeside town. Here, the group embarks on a guided tour, exploring the quaint streets and shops. Visitors can browse the local boutiques and artisanal stores, seeing the town’s vibrant culture.

The tour then moves to the Bioaroma Olive Oil Factory, where guests learn about the production process and have the opportunity to purchase premium olive oil products.

Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary, enhancing the overall experience for the participants.

Bioaroma Olive Oil Factory

Visitors to the Bioaroma Olive Oil Factory explore the facility’s production process, gaining insights into the meticulous techniques that yield the premium olive oil products showcased.

The tour highlights three key aspects of the operation:

1. The olive grove, where visitors learn about the cultivation and harvesting of the olives.

2. The state-of-the-art milling equipment, which gently extracts the oil while preserving its natural flavors and aromas.

3. The bottling and packaging area, where the finished product is carefully prepared for distribution.

Throughout the visit, guests have the opportunity to sample the different olive oil varieties and purchase their favorites directly from the on-site shop, ensuring they take a taste of Crete’s rich culinary heritage home with them.

Voulisma Beach and Relaxation

The tour then takes guests to the idyllic Voulisma Beach, where they can enjoy a relaxing break, swim in the turquoise waters, and soak up the serene Mediterranean atmosphere.

Voulisma is known for its stunning natural beauty, with fine golden sand and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the beach, exploring the picturesque coves and inlets, or simply find a comfortable spot to relax and unwind.

The beach also offers various amenities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all. This stopover provides a delightful respite from the day’s activities, allowing guests to recharge and rejuvenate before continuing their exploration.

Vassilakis Estate and Shopping

From the tranquility of Voulisma Beach, the tour now guides guests to the Vassilakis Estate, where they can enjoy the world of Cretan olive oil production and indulge in some shopping.

The Vassilakis Estate offers a unique opportunity to:

1. Take a guided tour of the olive oil production facilities, learning about the traditional methods and modern technologies used to create the exceptional Cretan olive oil.

2. Browse the on-site shop, where visitors can purchase a variety of olive oil-based products, including gourmet olive oils, soaps, and cosmetics.

3. Enjoy the picturesque setting and learn about the estate’s history and commitment to sustainability.

This stop provides a fascinating glimpse into Crete’s rich culinary heritage and the enduring importance of olive oil in the local culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Bring for the Tour?

Travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera to fully enjoy the tour’s activities. It’s also recommended to bring local currency for any optional purchases during the stops.

Is There a Dress Code I Should Follow?

For this tour, there’s no strict dress code, but comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Avoid anything too casual or revealing, as you’ll be visiting historic sites and participating in various activities throughout the day.

Are There Any Age or Mobility Restrictions?

There are no age or mobility restrictions for this tour. The tour operator accommodates guests of all ages and abilities. However, some activities may be challenging for those with limited mobility. Guests should discuss any concerns with the tour operator.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to your preferences. The tour operator offers flexibility in the itinerary, allowing you to adjust the sights and activities based on your interests and schedule. Additional fees may apply for customization.

What Is the Refund or Cancellation Policy?

The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy – customers can cancel or modify the tour up to 24 hours prior to the start time and receive a full refund. There are no fees for changes made within this window.

Recap

This tour offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and culinary exploration.

Visitors can enjoy the poignant legacy of Spinalonga, stroll through the charming streets of Agios Nikolaos, and explore the intricate art of olive oil production.

With its diverse experiences and picturesque settings, this excursion provides a well-rounded and enriching glimpse into the enchanting island of Crete.

You can check if your dates are available here: