Wine & Olive Oil Tour With Lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat

Crete’s culinary heritage takes center stage on this immersive Wine & Olive Oil Tour. Guests will embark on a scenic 4×4 journey, exploring the region’s olive and winemaking traditions. From the Olive Tree Museum to an artisanal winery, this experience offers a deeper understanding of Cretan flavors. But the true highlight awaits at Milia Mountain Retreat, where a seasonal buffet showcases the region’s finest local produce in a serene setting. Where will this delectable tour lead you next?

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Key Points

Small-group 4×4 tour exploring Crete’s culinary and cultural richness, including an olive tree museum, winery with tastings, and a scenic mountain retreat.
Visit to the ancient Vouves olive tree and learn about traditional olive oil production methods with an expert guide.
Guided tasting experience at Anoskeli Winery Olive Mill, featuring renowned wines and extra virgin olive oils.
Seasonal Cretan buffet lunch with wine/beer and homemade dessert at the picturesque Milia Mountain Retreat.
Includes transportation, liability insurance, knowledgeable local driver/host, and non-alcoholic beverages.

Overview of the Wine & Olive Oil Tour

The Wine & Olive Oil Tour at Milia Mountain Retreat is a small-group experience that allows visitors to enjoy the culinary and cultural richness of Crete.

This tour, which accommodates up to 6 guests, takes participants on a scenic 4×4 journey to explore an olive tree museum, a winery with olive oil tastings, and the renowned Milia Mountain Retreat.

Along the way, travelers will enjoy informative presentations by experts, sample high-quality wines and olive oils, and savor a delectable Cretan-style lunch at the mountain retreat.

With its 5-star reviews, this tour is an exceptional way to discover the flavors of Crete.

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Exploring the Olive Tree Museum of Vouves

After exploring the scenic Topolia Gorge, the tour continues to the Olive Tree Museum of Vouves.

Guests learn about the ancient olive tree cultivated for over 3,000 years. An expert guide shares the history and significance of these iconic trees, which are deeply rooted in Cretan culture and economy.

Visitors get a closer look at the ancient olive tree, one of the oldest in the world, and discover the traditional olive oil production methods.

This educational stop offers a deeper appreciation for the Cretan olive industry and its enduring traditions.

Tasting Experiences at Anoskeli Winery Olive Mill

From the Olive Tree Museum, the tour heads to the Anoskeli Winery Olive Mill, where guests embark on a guided tasting adventure.

Under the direction of sommeliers and olive oil experts, they sample the winery’s renowned wines and extra virgin olive oils. Visitors learn about the production methods and flavor profiles, gaining a deeper appreciation for the craft.

The tutored tastings allow guests to discern the subtle nuances that distinguish each offering. This immersive experience at Anoskeli provides a well-rounded understanding of Crete’s celebrated culinary traditions.

Dining at Milia Mountain Retreat

Following the in-depth tastings at Anoskeli Winery, the tour then heads to the Milia Mountain Retreat for a delightful lunch experience.

Guests are treated to a seasonal buffet showcasing Cretan flavors, with dishes featuring fresh local produce, meats, and pasta.

The meal is complemented by a first round of wine or beer, as well as a homemade seasonal dessert served with the local spirit, tsikouthia.

The serene mountain setting and family-style dining create an authentic and memorable culinary encounter, allowing guests to savor the essence of Cretan cuisine in a picturesque rural environment.

Scenic Journey Through Topolia Gorge

As the tour departs from Milia Mountain Retreat, it winds its way through the stunning Topolia Gorge. The narrow, rocky passage offers breathtaking views of the towering cliffs and lush vegetation.

Guests can admire:

The dramatic geologic formations carved by centuries of erosion.
Intricate patterns in the exposed rock layers.
Remnants of ancient settlements nestled along the gorge’s edge.
Indigenous flora and fauna thriving in the protected microclimate.

The scenic drive allows travelers to fully enjoy Crete’s rugged natural beauty before arriving at the next stop on the itinerary.

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Tour Inclusions and Pricing

The tour includes a range of experiences and amenities designed to provide guests with a comprehensive and immersive introduction to Crete’s culinary treasures. Highlights include a visit to the Olive Tree Museum, wine and olive oil tastings at Anoskeli Winery, and a traditional Cretan lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat. Additional inclusions are:

Inclusions	Details
Transportation	Pickup within 3 miles (5km) east and 15 miles (25km) west of Chania
Liability Insurance	Provided by the tour operator
Local Driver/Host	Knowledgeable guide with gratuities included
Beverages	Coffee/tea, fresh orange juice, and bottled water

The tour price covers these thoughtful offerings, ensuring a well-rounded experience for guests.

Planning Your Visit: Accessibility and Booking

When planning your visit, it’s important to note the tour’s accessibility considerations. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible, though infant seats are available.

Booking is simple – confirmation is received at the time of booking, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours prior to the start time of 9:00 AM.

The dress code is smart casual, and vegetarian options are available upon request. The minimum drinking age is 18 years, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Traveler Testimonials and Recommendations

Travelers consistently praise the Wine & Olive Oil Tour at Milia Mountain Retreat for its knowledgeable and friendly guides, unique experiences, and high-quality offerings. One guest remarked, "The guides were so passionate and informative – I learned so much about olive oil and wine production." Another said, "The lunch at Milia Mountain was a highlight, with incredible Cretan flavors and a beautiful setting." Many also highlighted the intimate, small-group atmosphere as a major draw.

Traveler Praise	Standout Experiences	Tour Highlights
Knowledgeable Guides	Anoskeli Winery & Olive Mill	Scenic Topolia Gorge
Unique Experiences	Lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat	High-Quality Tastings
High-Quality Food & Wine	Intimate Small Group Size	Personalized Attention

The tour is consistently recommended for its exceptional ability to immerse visitors in Crete’s culinary heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Visit the Olive Mill and Winery Separately?

The tour provides an integrated experience, so it may not be possible to visit the olive mill and winery separately. However, you could inquire with the tour operator about arranging a custom visit if that’s your preference.

Are There Any Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Options Available?

Yes, the tour offers vegetarian options upon request. Gluten-free dishes can also be provided with advance notice. The menu at Milia Mountain Retreat is flexible to accommodate different dietary needs.

How Long Is the Total Duration of the Tour?

The total duration of the tour is not explicitly stated, but it likely lasts around 5-6 hours based on the itinerary highlights and inclusions provided. This allows ample time for the olive oil and wine tastings, lunch, and scenic stops.

Can I Bring My Own Camera on the Tour?

Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own cameras on the tour. Capturing memorable photos during the olive oil and wine tastings, at the historical sites, and scenic landscapes is encouraged to help create a personalized record of the experience.

Are There Any Restroom Stops During the Tour?

The tour includes restroom stops at the various locations visited, such as the Olive Tree Museum and the Anoskeli Winery. Participants will have the opportunity to use restroom facilities throughout the duration of the tour.

The Sum Up

The Wine & Olive Oil Tour with lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat provides a well-rounded exploration of Crete’s culinary heritage. Visitors can expect an immersive experience, from touring olive groves and wineries to savoring a locally-sourced feast in a serene mountain setting. This tour offers an authentic taste of Cretan flavors and culture, making it a must-do activity for food and wine enthusiasts visiting the island.