Private Half Day Wine and Olive Oil Tasting-Kournas Lake

Discover the captivating world of Cretan cuisine and culture on this private half-day wine and olive oil tasting tour at Kournas Lake. Enjoy the stunning scenery as you explore a family-owned olive oil factory and winery, indulging in tastings of local delicacies. With a knowledgeable guide and a personalized itinerary, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for families and couples alike. But the true highlight might just surprise you.

Key Points

• This private half-day tour combines a visit to Lake Kournas with tastings of local wine and olive oil.
• The tour includes a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, snacks, light lunch, and tastings.
• Guests can enjoy activities like swimming or pedalo rides at the lake and visits to a family-owned olive oil factory and winery.
• The tour is highly recommended, with 100% traveler satisfaction and a Badge of Excellence award.
• The tour operates from March to November, with flexible scheduling and pickup options, and a free cancellation policy.

Tour Overview

The private half-day tour combines a visit to the scenic Lake Kournas with a wine and olive oil tasting experience.

Boasting 31 reviews with a 100% traveler recommendation, the tour has been awarded the prestigious Badge of Excellence.

Guests can enjoy swimming or pedalo rides at the lake, followed by visits to a family-owned olive oil factory and winery.

The tour is priced at $427.73 per group of up to 6 people and includes a private, air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, snacks, lunch, and tastings of olive oil, raki, and wine.

Inclusions and Amenities

This private tour includes a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, either a VIP Mercedes V class or a Jeep Renegade, to transport guests throughout the experience.

Bottled water, snacks (both Greek and Cretan), a light lunch, and coffee or tea are provided.

Visitors can enjoy an olive oil and raki tasting, as well as a wine tasting of 5 local wines for 14 euros per person.

The itinerary is flexible, allowing for personalized experiences tailored to your’ preferences.

Pickup and Scheduling

Guests can expect pickup from their location for this private tour.

The tour operates Monday through Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, between March 1st and November 12th, 2025. Guests should confirm the start time with the local provider.

The tour offers the flexibility of a personalized itinerary. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Guest Experiences

Highly praised guides, particularly Angie, have been recognized for their exceptional knowledge, friendly demeanor, and flexibility in customizing the tour experiences.

Guests consistently highlight the relaxing atmosphere and beautiful scenery at Lake Kournas, along with the informative winery tours.

They appreciated the opportunity to learn about local olive oil production and sample regional snacks.

Many expressed intentions to book again or recommend the tour to others visiting Crete, praising the excellent food and wine quality, as well as the chance to try authentic local delicacies.

Recommendations and Highlights

The tour is recommended for all types of travelers, including families and honeymooners, as it offers unique experiences beyond the typical wine and olive oil tastings. Guests can enjoy pedalo rides on the stunning Lake Kournas, browse local shops, and even visit a historic chapel in the sea. The excellent food and wine quality, alongside the opportunity to try local delicacies, leave a lasting impression. Many guests expressed intentions to book again or recommend the tour to others visiting Crete.

Unique Experiences	Excellent Quality	Lasting Impressions
Pedalo rides on Lake Kournas	Food and wine	Booking again
Local shopping	Local delicacies	Recommending to others
Visiting historic sites	–	–

Exploring Lake Kournas

What makes Lake Kournas such a captivating part of this private wine and olive oil tasting tour? Nestled amidst the Cretan countryside, Lake Kournas offers a tranquil oasis where guests can indulge in a variety of activities.

From swimming in the crystal-clear waters to gliding across the lake on a pedalo, the experience immerses visitors in the natural beauty of the region.

The tour also provides the opportunity to:

1. Witness the unique ecosystem surrounding the lake, home to diverse flora and fauna.
2. Explore the nearby Chapel in the Sea, a historic site with cultural significance.
3. Relax and unwind in the serene, picturesque setting.

Discovering Olive Oil and Raki

After exploring the serene Lake Kournas, the tour transports guests to a family-owned olive oil factory, where they explore the rich heritage of Cretan olive oil production.

Visitors learn about the traditional methods used to extract the precious liquid gold, from hand-picking the olives to the meticulous pressing process.

Guests also have the opportunity to sample the distinct flavors of the estate’s organic olive oils, each with its own unique aroma and taste profile.

The tour then continues with a tasting of the local spirit, raki, providing an authentic glimpse into Crete’s vibrant culinary culture.

Taking in Cretan Winemaking

Having explored the captivating world of Cretan olive oil, the tour now delves into the region’s vibrant winemaking heritage.

At the family-owned winery, guests embark on an immersive tasting experience, sampling a selection of Cretan wines. The knowledgeable host educates them on the unique terroir, grape varietals, and centuries-old traditions that shape the island’s distinctive vintages.

Guests appreciate the opportunity to:

1. Discover the nuances of Cretan wine, from full-bodied reds to crisp whites.
2. Gain insider insights into the winemaking process, from grape to glass.
3. Savor the flavors and aromas that capture the essence of Crete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour offers a flexible itinerary, allowing you to personalize the experience to your preferences. The provider is known for their ability to accommodate guests’ requests and provide customized experiences.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has a casual dress code. Guests should wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and possibly getting their feet wet during the optional pedalo ride or swimming at Lake Kournas.

Are Children’s Activities Available During the Tour?

The tour offers flexible itineraries that can accommodate children’s activities. Guests have the option to enjoy pedalo rides and swimming at Lake Kournas, providing family-friendly experiences during the tour.

Can I Store My Luggage With the Tour Provider?

The tour provider doesn’t offer luggage storage. Guests will need to make their own arrangements for storing any bags or belongings during the tour. The focus is on providing a personalized wine and olive oil tasting experience.

Are Professional Photographs Taken During the Tour?

The tour does not include professional photography. However, guests are welcome to take their own photos throughout the experience to capture the scenic landscapes, winery visits, and other memorable moments.

The Sum Up

This private half-day tour offers an immersive experience blending the natural beauty of Kournas Lake with the rich culinary heritage of Crete. Guests can enjoy swimming or pedalo rides, tastings of local olive oil and wine, and insights into traditional production methods. Ideal for those seeking a personalized exploration of Cretan culture and cuisine in a serene setting.