PRIVATE – Zeus-Winery-Olive Oil Factory-Old Traditional Villages

This private tour promises an immersive experience into Crete’s rich heritage. Visitors will explore the renowned Zeus Winery, discover the secrets of traditional olive oil production, and uncover the charm of picturesque villages. Knowledgeable guides share personal insights, while tastings of exquisite local products and breathtaking landscapes create an unforgettable cultural journey. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply seeking an authentic Cretan adventure, this tour offers a unique opportunity to…

Key Points

• Private small-group tour that visits a family-owned olive oil factory, a local winery, and picturesque mountain villages in Crete.
• Opportunity to taste authentic Cretan olive oil, wine, and traditional foods like coffee, pastries, yogurt, and honey.
• Guided exploration of the Lasithi Plateau, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
• Knowledgeable local guides provide insights into Cretan lifestyle, history, and unique experiences.
• Flexibility in tour schedule and personalized experiences tailored to guests’ interests.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The tour offers a private small-group tasting experience from Heraklion, Greece, with a focus on olive oil, wine, and traditional village life in Crete.

Visitors tour a family-owned olive oil factory, learn about production, and sample various olive oils. They then explore picturesque mountain villages and stop for lunch on the Lasithi Plateau.

In the afternoon, guests can enjoy an optional wine tasting featuring 5 local wines. The tour includes olive oil tasting, bottled water, coffee, and tea.

Lunch is optional and at guests’ own expense. Pickup is available from Heraklion and surrounding areas, with an extra charge for distant locations.

Inclusions and Pricing

The tour includes olive oil tasting, bottled water, coffee, and tea.

Lunch is optional and at your’ own expense. The tour’s price starts from $139.01 per person, varying by group size.

There’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Pickup is available from Heraklion city and surrounding areas, but an extra charge applies for distant locations.

Guest Experience and Reviews

What do the guest reviews say about this tour? 100% of travelers recommend this tour and it has a badge of excellence. In total, 16 reviews have been left, all with a perfect 5.0 rating. Guests have appreciated the knowledgeable local guides and the personal experiences. The highlights include informative tours, local interactions, and beautiful scenery.

Review Highlights	Rating	Recommendation
Knowledgeable guides	5	100%
Personal experiences	5	100%
Informative tours	5	100%
Beautiful scenery	5	100%

The overwhelmingly positive reviews demonstrate that this small-group tasting tour of Crete’s olive oil, wine, and traditional villages is a must-do experience.

Accessibility and Additional Information

Although the tour offers an immersive cultural experience, accessibility is an important consideration.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers and infant seats are available. Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, subject to availability.

While the tour showcases the beauty of Crete’s mountains and vineyards, guests should be prepared for some walking and stairs.

The knowledgeable local guides strive to ensure all guests can fully enjoy the unique experiences, from olive oil tastings to traditional village visits.

Cultural Immersion and Unique Experiences

Guests experience authentic Cretan culture through immersive local interactions. The tour includes tastings of Greek coffee, pastries, yogurt, and honey – allowing visitors to savor the flavors that define Cretan cuisine.

The beautiful landscapes of mountains and vineyards further enhance the cultural experience. Guides enrich understanding with personal anecdotes about Cretan lifestyle and history, providing a genuine glimpse into the local way of life.

This tour offers a unique opportunity to discover:

• Traditional olive oil production
• Family-owned winery visits
• Historic mountain villages
• Homemade Cretan delicacies
• Scenic Lasithi Plateau

Visiting the Olive Oil Factory

After the scenic drive through the Cretan countryside, visitors arrive at the family-owned olive oil factory.

The guide leads them inside, where they learn about the centuries-old production process. Visitors observe the olives being washed, crushed, and pressed using traditional methods.

They sample the factory’s premium olive oils, noting the distinct flavors and aromas. The owner shares insights into the importance of olive oil in Cretan culture and cuisine.

Guests appreciate the opportunity to witness this artisanal craft up-close and gain a deeper understanding of its role in the local community.

Exploring Traditional Cretan Villages

Where next do your venture after the olive oil factory tour?

The group heads to the nearby mountains to explore traditional Cretan villages. They wander through the narrow, winding streets, admiring the whitewashed buildings and charming architecture. The guides share stories about local life and customs, providing a glimpse into the authentic Cretan culture.

Highlights include:

• Visiting a village cafe for Greek coffee and pastries
• Touring a family-run yogurt and honey farm
• Discovering traditional artisanal workshops
• Exploring ancient churches and historical sites
• Basking in the stunning mountain landscapes

The immersive experience allows guests to truly connect with the soul of Crete.

Tasting the Local Wines

As the olive oil tasting concludes, guests are invited to an optional afternoon wine tasting.

They gather around a long wooden table in the winery’s tasting room. The knowledgeable guide introduces five local Cretan wines, each with their own unique character.

Guests sip and savor the distinct flavors, learning about the grape varieties, terroir, and winemaking processes.

The experience offers a delightful opportunity to explore Crete’s vibrant wine culture.

Whether a wine connoisseur or novice, guests leave with a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich winemaking heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time Does the Tour Start?

The tour starts at a flexible time, typically in the morning hours. The exact departure time is coordinated with your based on their preferences and availability.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, guests are encouraged to take photos during the tour. The tour allows ample opportunities to capture the scenic landscapes, traditional villages, and unique cultural experiences, helping guests document their memorable journey through Crete.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code for the tour, but comfortable, casual clothing is recommended. Guests should wear appropriate footwear for light walking and be prepared for the local weather conditions.

Can I Purchase Olive Oil and Wine on the Tour?

Yes, you can purchase olive oil and wine on the tour. The tour includes visits to a family-owned olive oil factory and a local winery, where you’ll have the opportunity to sample and purchase their products.

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour can be customized. Guests can work with the tour operator to adjust the itinerary based on their interests, such as spending more time at the olive oil factory or adding a visit to a specific village.

The Sum Up

Discover the essence of Crete through this private tour. Enjoy the island’s rich heritage, from the renowned Zeus Winery to the captivating olive oil factory. Explore charming traditional villages, savoring the local flavors of exquisite olive oil, wine, and authentic Cretan delicacies. This comprehensive experience offers a unique glimpse into the island’s vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes.