Rethymnon: Kournas Lake, Argyroupolis, and Olive Oil Tour

Crete’s hidden gems await those who venture beyond the bustling beaches. On this guided tour, visitors can enjoy the island’s natural beauty, rich history, and thriving food culture. From the serene Kournas Lake to the charming Argyroupolis, the journey promises enchanting discoveries. But the true highlight lies in the olive oil mill, where the secrets of Crete’s liquid gold are unveiled. What secrets, you ask? Let’s dive in and find out.

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Key Points

A 7-hour guided tour exploring Crete’s natural wonders, including Kournas Lake, Argyroupolis, and a local olive oil mill.
Opportunity for relaxing pedalo rides on Kournas Lake, the only freshwater lake in Crete, and learning about olive oil production.
Comfortable air-conditioned bus transportation with hotel pickup, and flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Discover the charming village of Argyroupolis, known for its natural spring-fed waters and traditional architecture.
Gain insights into the history, health benefits, and culinary uses of olive oil at the local olive oil mill.

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Tour Overview

What’s the Rethymnon: Kournas Lake, Argyroupolis, and Olive Oil Tour all about?

This 7-hour guided tour takes visitors to explore the natural wonders of Crete. For $27.31 per person, you’ll visit Kournas Lake, the island’s only freshwater lake, and take a scenic pedalo ride.

Next, you’ll discover Argyroupolis’ lush greenery and babbling springs. The tour also includes a stop at a local olive oil mill, where you’ll learn about the production process.

Available in English, German, and French, the tour offers hotel pickup across several Cretan towns. It’s a comprehensive way to experience Crete’s stunning landscape and culture.

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Booking Information

The Rethymnon tour offers flexible booking options. Customers can reserve their spot without any upfront payment and pay later. Plus, the tour provider allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind. Travelers will also appreciate the included air-conditioned double-decker bus transportation, ensuring a comfortable journey.

| Booking Information | | |

|——————-|—|—|

| Reservation | Reserve now & pay later; no upfront payment required. | |

| Cancellation Policy | Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. | |

| Transportation | Air-conditioned double-decker bus included. | |

Exploring Kournas Lake

One of the highlights of the Rethymnon tour is the visit to Kournas Lake, the only freshwater lake in Crete.

Nestled amidst lush greenery, the serene lake offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city. Visitors can take a relaxing pedalo ride to admire the stunning natural surroundings and spot local wildlife, including turtles and a variety of birds.

The lake’s calm waters and picturesque setting make it a popular spot for both locals and travelers. With its unique ecosystem and tranquil atmosphere, Kournas Lake is a must-see destination during the Rethymnon tour.

Discovering Argyroupolis

Next, the tour takes visitors to the picturesque village of Argyroupolis. Nestled among lush vegetation, the town is known for its natural spring-fed watersprings.

Visitors can stroll through the charming streets, admiring the traditional architecture and the soothing sound of running water. The greenery and tranquil atmosphere create a serene ambiance, allowing travelers to enjoy the local way of life.

The tour guide shares insights into the town’s history and points out highlights, such as ancient ruins and quaint taverns. Exploring Argyroupolis is a peaceful respite from the bustling Cretan landscape.

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Visiting the Olive Oil Mill

After exploring the charming village of Argyroupolis, the tour then takes visitors to a local olive oil mill.

At the mill, guests learn about the centuries-old tradition of olive oil production in Crete. They witness the process of crushing olives, extracting the precious liquid, and bottling the final product.

The guide explains the health benefits and culinary uses of the island’s renowned extra virgin olive oil. Visitors have the opportunity to sample various olive oils and purchase their favorites to take home, savoring a taste of Crete’s rich agricultural heritage.

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Transportation and Accessibility

The tour includes air-conditioned double-decker bus transportation, ensuring a comfortable journey for participants. This mode of transportation allows easy access and mobility for the group, especially important as the tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments. The buses are equipped with amenities to make the ride pleasant.

| Feature | Availability |

| — | — |

| Air Conditioning | Yes |

| Comfortable Seating | Yes |

| Adequate Legroom | Yes |

| Onboard Restroom | No |

| Wheelchair Accessibility | No |

The transportation provided is reliable and efficient, allowing participants to fully enjoy the tour’s highlights without worrying about the logistics.

What to Bring and Expect

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection like sunglasses and a hat to shield themselves from the Mediterranean sun during the tour.

Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection to shield yourself from the Mediterranean sun during the tour.

The tour involves some walking, so proper footwear is essential. Cameras are encouraged to capture the stunning natural landscapes of Kournas Lake and Argyroupolis.

Visitors should also bring any personal items they may need, as there will be limited opportunities to purchase snacks or drinks along the way.

Pets and smoking aren’t permitted on the tour. Overall, being prepared with the right attire and accessories will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Rethymnon tour, with an impressive 4.7 out of 5 rating based on over 100 reviews.

Guides Yannis and Kostas received special recognition for their hospitality and extensive knowledge.

Tour participants enjoyed spotting local wildlife and visiting charming taverns in Argyroupolis.

Reviewers consistently highlighted the tour’s excellent value for money, with the transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned bus being a particular highlight.

Things To Know

Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The tour could be suitable for families with young children, as it includes activities like pedal boating on a scenic lake. However, the tour notes it may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, so parents should carefully consider their children’s needs.

What Type of Food or Refreshments Are Provided During the Tour?

The tour does not include any food or refreshments. Participants are advised to bring their own snacks and water to stay hydrated throughout the 7-hour excursion. Lunch is not provided, but there may be opportunities to purchase food at local taverns.

Can We Make Any Special Requests for the Tour Itinerary?

Customers can make special requests to tailor the tour itinerary to their interests, such as spending more time at a particular site or adding a stop at a local landmark. The tour operator is typically accommodating of reasonable requests.

How Reliable Is the Tour Operator’s Communication Before the Tour?

The tour operator’s communication before the tour is generally reliable, with prompt responses to inquiries and clear information provided about pickup locations, schedule, and what to expect. Customers report a smooth and well-organized experience from booking to the tour itself.

Are There Any Discounts or Offers Available for Group Bookings?

The tour operator doesn’t explicitly advertise group discounts, but they may offer special rates for larger bookings. It’s best to inquire directly about any group pricing or promotional offers when making your reservation.

Sum Up

This guided tour of Crete’s Rethymnon region offers a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to admire the serene Kournas Lake, explore the charming village of Argyroupolis, and gain insights into the production and benefits of olive oil. With its diverse activities and immersive cultural elements, the tour provides an excellent way to discover the natural and culinary wonders of this picturesque Greek island.