Travelers exploring Crete often seek genuine experiences that go beyond the typical tourist spots. One such offering is the Honey & Cheese Tasting Tour operated by DESTINATION PLATANIAS, which promises a blend of scenic drives, local culture, and delicious tasting sessions. This tour, lasting around 4 hours, combines the beauty of Crete’s coastline with authentic tastes of honey, cheese, and Greek snacks, all guided by knowledgeable local experts.
What really makes this experience shine is the chance to meet real Cretan honey producers and learn about traditional cheese making, plus enjoy stunning views of the island’s rugged landscape. The small group size (limited to 6 participants) ensures a personal touch, allowing for engaging conversations with guides who are passionate about Crete’s culinary and cultural heritage.
One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is mainly tailored for those comfortable with a few hours of bus travel and walking around scenic sites. It might not be ideal if you’re seeking a full-day activity or have very young children, as the experience is focused on tasting and sightseeing rather than physical activity. This tour suits travelers craving an intimate dive into local flavors with a side of breathtaking vistas.
Key Points
- Authentic Tasting Experience: Sample real Cretan honey and homemade cheese directly from local producers.
- Cultural & Scenic Stops: Visit the Monastery of Agia Gonia and enjoy gorgeous views of Kissamos bay.
- Small Group Feel: Limited to just 6 participants for a personalized experience.
- Educational & Tasty: Guides share insights into honey production, Greek cheese, and local traditions.
- Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with full refund; pay later option available.
- Consideration: Not suitable for children under 4, and a small additional fee applies for pickups outside Platanias.
An Authentic Journey into Crete’s Flavors and Scenery
This 4-hour guided road trip begins in Platanias, a lively town on Crete’s western coast, where the tour company offers hotel pickup and drop-off in the local area. From there, the journey takes you along the scenic coastline, giving a taste of Crete’s rural charm while providing opportunities to appreciate the island’s natural beauty and historic sites.
Looking for more options in Platanias? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Scenic Drive & the Monastery of Agia Gonia
The first stop is the Monastery of Agia Gonia, a peaceful spot rich in history and tranquility. Visitors get an inside look at the monastery’s church and museum, gaining context about the religious and cultural significance of the site. The visit is brief but meaningful, offering a serene break from the bus ride and a chance to snap some photos of the surrounding landscape.
Meeting the Honey Producer at Rodopou
The core of the tour is the visit to a local honey producer in Rodopou village. Here, you can expect to taste different varieties of honey, each with its distinct flavor profile, influenced by the flora in the area. According to reviews, guides like Päivi, who leads the tour, are incredibly knowledgeable and share personal anecdotes that enrich the experience. One guest noted, “Päivi told us much about the nature in the area, myths, and trivia, making the trip more engaging.”
The honey farm is more than just honey—it’s a small-scale operation where the bee keepers also produce homemade Greek cheese, specifically Graviera, and yogurt. These traditional products are sampled alongside honey, creating ideal pairing possibilities. Guests are often surprised by how well honey drizzled on fresh cheese or yogurt can elevate the tasting experience. One reviewer remarked that they’d never thought of drizzling honey over ripe avocado, but after trying it here, they’d definitely do it again.
Traditional Cheese & Local Snacks
The cheese tasting session offers insight into Greek dairy craftsmanship. The Graviera cheese is often highlighted as a highlight—its nutty, sweet flavor pairs beautifully with honey. The guide explains how these products are produced, adding cultural context that deepens appreciation.
More Great Tours NearbyRavdoucha & Scenic Views
The tour’s final highlights include a photo stop at Ravdoucha, a small village with incredible views over Kissamos bay. Travelers can expect to snap some memorable photos and enjoy the fresh sea breeze. The short stop allows for some leisure time before heading back, with the scenic drive providing plenty of opportunities for picture-taking and soaking in Crete’s rugged charm.
The Experience in Detail
Transportation & Group Size
The tour operates with a comfortable minivan that makes traveling between stops smooth and pleasant. With a cap of just six participants, you get a more relaxed and personalized experience—no overcrowded buses here. This smaller group also means more time for questions and engaging conversations with your guide.
Timing & Pacing
The itinerary is well-paced, with plenty of time at key stops without feeling rushed. The main activity—the honey and cheese tastings—takes place at the farm and village stops. The visit to the monastery and Ravdoucha offers cultural and scenic elements, respectively, without overstaying their welcome.
Cost & Value
While the tour isn’t the cheapest option, the price reflects its intimate nature and inclusion of tastings, guided visits, entrance to the monastery, and hotel pickup. You’ll be sampling authentic, homemade products and gaining insights that are difficult to find on your own—elements that justify the investment.
Guide & Personal Touch
Guests often praise the guides, like Päivi, for her extensive knowledge, friendly demeanor, and ability to make the experience engaging. She shares personal anecdotes, making the trip feel more like visiting a friend’s countryside home rather than a commercial attraction.
Why This Tour Works for You
This experience is ideal if you’re a curious traveler who loves tasting local foods and learning about their origins. It’s perfect for those who appreciate scenic drives and want a taste of rural Crete away from busy tourist hubs. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides create a relaxed, informative atmosphere, making it suitable for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking an authentic glimpse of local life.
However, if you’re more interested in active adventures or full-day excursions, this might not satisfy your appetite for adrenaline or extensive sightseeing. It’s rather a relaxed, sensory journey focused on taste, scenery, and cultural insights.
The Sum Up
In a nutshell, this Honey & Cheese Tasting Tour offers a delightful combination of Crete’s natural beauty and its culinary traditions. You’ll enjoy the chance to meet genuine local producers, sample some of Greece’s finest homemade products, and take in gorgeous coastal views—all in a small, friendly group.
This experience is especially valuable for travelers wanting a slow-paced, authentic taste of Crete’s countryside and cultural richness. The guided nature of the tour, coupled with the quality of tastings, makes it a worthwhile addition to any trip along the western coast of the island.
If you’re seeking a relaxed, tasty, and visually stunning half-day adventure, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to bring your camera, sun protection, and a curious palate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Platanias, honey and cheese tastings, guided visits to the monastery and farm, entrance to the monastery, refreshments, and liability insurance.
Is there an option to cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You also have the option to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change.
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day option that fits well into a relaxed Crete itinerary.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Destination Platanias Service Office in Platanias town and ends back at the same location, with hotel pickup and drop-off included within the area.
Are children allowed?
This tour is not suitable for children under 4 years old, mainly due to the nature of the tasting and walking involved.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a camera are recommended. Remember to dress appropriately for the weather, as there are outdoor stops involved.
Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation is by minivan, and the vehicle is comfortable for the scenic drives and stops.
How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 6 participants, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience.
Is food included besides tastings?
No, actual meals are not included, but the tastings of honey, cheese, and local snacks are part of the experience.
Overall, this tour beautifully captures the essence of Crete—its landscapes, its flavors, and its local artisans—making it a memorable half-day adventure for those eager to explore beyond the usual tourist routes.
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