From Mykonos: Ano Mera Farm Tour

Imagine spending a couple of hours on a traditional Greek farm, connecting with local culture far from the bustling beaches and party scenes of Mykonos. That’s exactly what this Ano Mera Farm Tour promises—and, based on reviews and descriptions, it offers a glimpse into genuine rural life, with some ups and downs.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see a different side of Mykonos—the quiet charm of farm life, the chance to get involved with farming tasks, and the opportunity to taste fresh, local snacks. It’s also quite flexible, allowing you to participate in activities or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

A possible consideration is that the tour can feel somewhat “bare-bones,” and some visitors have found the organization a bit lacking, with certain promises (like petting animals or milking a cow) not fully realized. It’s not overly commercialized or polished, so if you’re after a structured, in-depth farm experience, this may not be your perfect fit.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy authentic, laid-back experiences, particularly those interested in Greek culture, rural traditions, or simply wanting a peaceful break from the busy island. If you’re the type who appreciates informal, hands-on activities and local flavors, this could be a memorable addition to your Mykonos trip.

Key Points

• Authentic farm experience: Visit a traditional Mykonian farm and get a feel for local agricultural practices.
• Hands-on participation: Optional involvement in farm chores like weeding, animal feeding, or gardening.
• Cultural insights: Learn about Mykonos’ farming history and the way locals farm livestock and crops.
• Local snacks and raki: Enjoy simple but fresh local snacks, bread, tomatoes, cucumbers, and kopanisti, with a glass of traditional raki.
• Flexible experience: You can choose to participate in tasks or relax and explore the farm from afar.
• Mixed reviews: While some found the tour charming and authentic, others felt it was somewhat underwhelming or poorly organized.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Ano Mera Farm Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with hotel pickup from most areas of Mykonos, making logistics straightforward. Transfers are included, although for some remote spots like Elia, Agrari, or Paradise, there’s a small extra charge—about €10 per person round trip, payable in cash. This added fee is typical with island tours and ensures you’re picked up from your accommodation without hassle.

Once aboard, you’ll head across the island’s heart toward the village of Ano Mera, a charming spot that offers a more tranquil vibe than Mykonos Town. The drive is a good chance to relax and get a preview of the island’s landscapes before arriving at the farm.

The Farm Visit and Guided Tour

After a short walk of roughly 400 meters from the bus drop-off point, you’ll arrive at the farm where the farm’s superintendent greets guests. The guide here, often a local or someone knowledgeable about farm life, is key to making the experience worthwhile.

The farm itself is described as beautiful and traditional, featuring stone-built structures typical of Mykonos architecture. Once there, you’ll tour the grounds with the guide sharing stories about the farm’s past and current operations, giving you context about the island’s agricultural roots.

One of the highlights is sitting on a stone-built seat while sipping raki, the local distilled spirit, and listening to tales about the farm’s history and its role within the local community. This is a nice touch that makes the visit more personal and less touristy.

Tasting and Snacking

A significant part of the experience involves sampling local snacks. The guide offers bread, tomatoes, cucumbers, kopanisti (a spicy cheese spread), and black olives—simple, fresh ingredients that showcase authentic Greek flavors.

Some reviews note that the snack is a bit “simple” or even “stale,” which highlights that this is a humble, no-frills offering rather than a gourmet experience. Still, many find the taste of fresh produce from the farm’s garden to be a highlight.

The guide might also show you how to cut and enjoy products directly from the vegetable garden, depending on the season. This interactive element helps reinforce the farm-to-table ethos and makes the experience more tangible.

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Participating in Farming Tasks

For those eager to roll up their sleeves, the superintendent provides tools and instructions for tasks like weeding, trimming the garden or vineyard, feeding animals, or watering. It’s a chance to get a bit dirty and feel closer to farm life.

However, some visitors, based on reviews, have been disappointed by the limited extent of animal interaction, with most seeing animals only from afar or not getting the chance to pet or feed them as expected. Notably, a reviewer mentioned they were told they would milk a cow, but that didn’t happen. So, if hands-on animal care is a priority, this tour might not deliver fully.

Alternatively, if you prefer a relaxed visit, you can choose to skip the tasks and simply enjoy the scenery and snacks at your own pace.

Duration and Flexibility

The entire tour lasts about 2.5 hours, making it a manageable addition to a day’s itinerary. You can see availability and starting times when booking, which helps plan around other activities.

The tour is quite flexible—if you don’t want to participate in chores, that’s perfectly acceptable. The key is to communicate your preferences in advance, especially since the tour relies heavily on the guide’s instructions.

Cost and Value

The price is considered reasonable for a half-day experience, especially given that hotel pickup, farm entrance, snacks, and raki are included. However, keep in mind the extra charge for remote pickup areas and that the experience is more about the authenticity and atmosphere than luxury or extensive activities.

Final Thoughts from Visitors

Many reviews agree that the farm is a beautiful and peaceful place and that the staff is polite and friendly. One reviewer appreciated the knowledgeable guide, Mohamed, who was described as kind and interesting.

On the downside, some felt the organization could be better, and the experience didn’t quite match some of the expectations set by the descriptions—particularly regarding animal interactions or farm chores. One reviewer summarized it as “pretty bare-bones,” noting the food was simple but enjoyable, and a bit stale bread was the only drawback.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers curious about Greek rural life and farm traditions, or those who appreciate casual, authentic encounters over polished tourist attractions. If you’re seeking a peaceful, scenic, and educational break from Mykonos’s beaches, you’ll likely find this farm tour charming.

It’s also suitable for families or groups wanting a relaxed activity that involves some participation but doesn’t require extensive physical effort. But if you’re after a farm experience that guarantees petting animals or milking cows, you might want to manage your expectations or consider other options.

The Sum Up

The Ano Mera Farm Tour offers a chance to step away from the crowds and discover a slice of authentic Greek island life. With its picturesque setting, friendly guides, and simple local snacks, it provides a gentle, educational experience rooted in tradition.

While it may not satisfy those seeking a highly interactive or polished farm visit, it still delivers a peaceful, culturally enriching outing. For travelers who enjoy learning about local customs, taking part in light chores, and savoring fresh produce, this tour stands out as a worthwhile, budget-friendly addition to your Mykonos itinerary.

It’s best suited for those with a flexible mindset and an interest in rural Greece. If authentic, relaxed experiences are what you’re after, the Ano Mera Farm Tour won’t disappoint.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from most locations in Mykonos, making the experience easy to access.

Can I participate in the farming tasks?
Yes, you can choose to help with tasks like weeding, animal feeding, or garden trimming, provided the superintendent offers the tools and instructions.

What should I expect to eat?
You’ll enjoy a simple snack of bread, tomatoes, cucumbers, kopanisti, and olives, along with a glass of raki. The snacks are fresh but not gourmet.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, giving you enough time to explore, learn, and relax without it feeling rushed.

Are animals involved in the experience?
You’ll see farm animals, but according to reviews, interactions are limited—most visitors view the animals from afar, and animal chores are optional.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those interested in farm life or local culture. However, keep in mind that the activities are light and informal.

What happens if I change my mind after booking?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

You can check availability for your dates here: