Winery – Olive Oil Factory-Old Traditional Villages .

Crete’s rich culinary and cultural heritage come alive in a unique tour that delves into the heart of the island’s artisanal traditions. Visitors can explore a family-owned olive oil factory, savor exquisite local wines at a charming winery, and wander through picturesque old villages, seeing Cretan customs and history. This comprehensive experience offers a glimpse into the essence of the island, from its legendary olive oil production to its enchanting rural landscapes. Whether you’re a foodie, a wine enthusiast, or simply curious about Crete’s captivating heritage, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• Visit to a family-owned olive oil factory for production insights and tastings of high-quality Cretan olive oils.
• Exploration of traditional mountain villages to learn about local history, customs, and immerse in the authentic charm of Crete.
• Scenic drives through the Cretan countryside, showcasing the region’s stunning landscapes of olive groves and vineyards.
• Optional wine tasting of 5 local wines, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of Cretan viticulture.
• Personalized tour experience with knowledgeable guides, catering to diverse interests such as food, culture, and nature.

Overview of the Tour

The tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich culinary and cultural heritage of Crete.

Guests embark on a small-group tasting adventure from Heraklion, exploring a family-owned olive oil factory, learning about production, and sampling various olive oils.

The tour then ventures into traditional mountain villages, where visitors can walk through narrow streets, learn about local history and customs, and enjoy drinks in the village square.

Scenic drives through olive groves and vineyards provide a glimpse into the stunning Cretan countryside.

This immersive experience is ideal for foodies, wine enthusiasts, and culture seekers seeking an authentic Cretan journey.

Tour Inclusions and Costs

As part of the tour, olive oil tasting, bottled water, coffee, and tea are all included in the experience. Guests can also enjoy an optional lunch on the Lasithi Plateau at their own expense. A wine tasting of 5 local wines is available for 18 euros per person.

Inclusions	Cost
Olive Oil Tasting	Included
Bottled Water, Coffee, Tea	Included
Lunch on Lasithi Plateau	Optional, Own Expense
Wine Tasting (5 Wines)	18 EUR Per Person

Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, and pickup is available from Heraklion city or pre-arranged locations (with an extra charge for distant areas).

Pickup and Accessibility

Pickup is available from Heraklion city or pre-arranged locations, though an extra charge may apply for more distant areas.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible and has infant seats available.

This is a private tour, so only your group will participate.

The tour’s accessibility makes it suitable for families and those with limited mobility, though the village visits may involve navigating some narrow streets and uneven terrain at higher altitudes.

Tour Experience

The tour kicks off with a visit to the family-owned olive oil factory, where visitors explore the intricacies of olive oil production and have the chance to sample a variety of flavors. After the olive oil tasting, the group embarks on a journey through the traditional villages nestled in the mountains, exploring their narrow streets and learning about the local history and customs. As they wander through the villages, they stop to enjoy refreshing drinks in the village squares, taking in the breathtaking scenery of the olive groves and vineyards that surround them.

Experience	Description
Olive Oil Tasting	Discover the nuances of different olive oil varieties
Traditional Village Exploration	Stroll through quaint mountain villages, learning about local culture
Scenic Mountain Drives	Admire the stunning landscapes of olive groves and vineyards
Refreshments in the Village Square	Savor local drinks while taking in the peaceful ambiance
Personalized Attention	Enjoy a private tour tailored to your interests

Olive Oil Factory Visit

The tour begins with a visit to a family-owned olive oil factory, where participants explore the intricacies of olive oil production.

At the factory, guests will:

1. Learn about the history and significance of olive oil in Cretan culture.
2. Observe the traditional methods used to extract and process the oil.
3. Sample a variety of olive oils, each with its own unique flavor profile.
4. Gain a deeper appreciation for the care and craftsmanship that goes into creating high-quality olive oil.

This hands-on experience provides a fascinating glimpse into the heritage and artistry of Crete’s olive oil industry, setting the stage for the rest of the immersive cultural tour.

Traditional Village Exploration

After the olive oil tasting, the tour ventures into the traditional villages nestled in the Cretan mountains.

Exploring these quaint villages, travelers will walk through narrow streets and learn about their history and local traditions. The tour guide shares insights into the villagers’ way of life as the group enjoys drinks in the village square.

The scenic drives through the olive groves and vineyards offer breathtaking views of the mountainous terrain. Reaching altitudes up to 1000 feet, the villages provide an authentic glimpse into Cretan culture.

This part of the tour allows visitors to enjoy the region’s traditions and appreciate the local way of life.

Drinks and Scenic Drives

Following the olive oil tasting and traditional village exploration, the tour takes visitors on a series of scenic drives through the mountainous Cretan landscape.

Along the way, guests will have the opportunity to:

1. Enjoy 5 local wines during a tasting session for 18 euros per person.
2. Soak in the breathtaking vistas of olive groves, vineyards, and rugged mountains.
3. Stop at the village square to savor refreshing beverages like coffee and tea.
4. Appreciate the tranquility and traditional way of life in these picturesque Cretan villages.

The scenic drives and village visits allow travelers to fully enjoy the authentic charm and natural beauty of Crete.

Reviews and Recommendations

Twelve glowing reviews with a remarkable 5.0 overall rating demonstrate the tour’s exceptional quality.

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who provide an informative and personalized experience, allowing guests to enjoy authentic Cretan culture.

The feedback highlights the tour’s appeal to a variety of interests, from foodies and wine enthusiasts to those seeking a deeper connection with the region’s rich heritage.

Whether you’re looking to savor the flavors of olive oil and local wines or explore picturesque traditional villages, this tour comes highly recommended as an ideal way to discover the essence of Crete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Visit the Olive Oil Factory and Traditional Villages on Our Own?

Yes, visitors can explore the olive oil factory and traditional villages on their own. While a guided tour provides more context and experiences, independent exploration allows for flexibility and self-paced discovery of these cultural attractions.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Not Mentioned in the Overview?

The overview doesn’t mention any additional fees or costs beyond the olive oil tasting, wine tasting, and optional lunch. However, there may be extra charges for pickups from distant areas, which should be confirmed with the tour operator.

Is the Wine Tasting Optional or Mandatory for the Tour?

The wine tasting is optional, not mandatory, for the tour. Participants can choose to enjoy the 5 local wines for an additional cost of 18 euros per person, or they can opt out of the wine tasting portion of the experience.

Can We Customize the Itinerary or Make Changes to the Tour?

Yes, the tour can be customized. Customers can make changes to the itinerary and add or remove activities as per their preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility to accommodate individual needs and create a personalized experience.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Private Tour?

The private tour has a flexible group size, as it’s tailored to only your group. You can discuss any customizations or changes to the itinerary with the tour operator prior to booking.

Recap

Experience the essence of Crete’s rich culinary and cultural heritage through this unique tour. Discover the art of olive oil production, savor exquisite local wines, and learn about traditional village life while enjoying breathtaking countryside views. This comprehensive and practical tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Crete’s essence, making it a must-do for any visitor seeking an authentic Cretan experience.