Set out on a captivating journey through the heart of Crete’s cultural and natural wonders. This private excursion promises an immersive experience, from exploring the haunting history of Spinalonga Island‘s former leper colony to strolling through the picturesque harbor and markets of Agios Nikolaos. But the true highlight lies in uncovering the secrets behind Crete’s award-winning olive oil, as you explore the production process at a local factory. With convenient pickup and drop-off options, this comprehensive tour offers a well-rounded exploration of the island’s rich heritage, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the island’s enduring charm.
Key Points
- Comprehensive full-day private tour with pickup/drop-off, local guide, and all-inclusive features exploring Spinalonga island, Agios Nikolaos, and an olive oil factory.
- Guided boat trip to and from Spinalonga, the former leper colony with well-preserved Venetian fortifications and captivating historical significance.
- Exploration of the picturesque harbor, bustling markets, and scenic lakeside promenade of Agios Nikolaos, a charming Cretan town.
- Guided tour of an olive oil factory, providing insight into the production process and the cultural heritage of Crete’s award-winning olive oil.
- Convenient pickup/drop-off options within a 15 km radius around Hersonissos, with additional charges for locations outside the radius.
Tour Details
This private tour of Spinalonga island, Agios Nikolaos, and an Olive Oil Factory in Crete has received 28 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, indicating a full-day excursion of high quality.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off within a 15 km radius around Hersonissos, as well as a local driver/guide, insurance, gasoline, and an air-conditioned minibus.
Guests will enjoy a boat trip to and from Spinalonga, a guided tour at the olive oil factory, and a coffee stop in Agios Nikolaos. The Spinalonga entrance fee is included, and lunch is provided.
Additional charges apply for pickup and drop-off from certain locations, and the cancellation policy offers a full refund if cancelled 24 hours prior.
Inclusions
The tour includes comprehensive offerings, from pickup and drop-off within a 15 km radius around Hersonissos to a local driver/guide, insurance, gasoline, and an air-conditioned minibus.
Guests will also enjoy a boat trip to and from Spinalonga, a guided tour at the olive oil factory, and a coffee stop in Agios Nikolaos.
Entrance fees to Spinalonga island are included, with standard adult tickets costing 8 euros and reduced tickets for children available at 4 euros.
Plus, a delicious lunch is provided as part of the full-day experience.
With these all-inclusive features, travelers can enjoy the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Crete without any hassle.
Pickup/Drop-off
The tour offers convenient pickup and drop-off options for travelers, with collection points spanning Kokinni Hani, Gournes, Gouves, Analipsi, Anissaras, Chersonissos, Piscopiano, Koutouloufari, Stalis-Stalidas, and Malia.
For those located in Heraklion, Sissi, Milatos, Agios Nikolaos, and Elounda, an additional charge of 20 euros per person applies.
The pickup and drop-off service provides:
- Hassle-free transportation to and from the tour’s starting point
- Flexibility for travelers staying in various locations across Crete
- Comfortable, air-conditioned minibuses for a pleasant journey
- Time-saving convenience, allowing guests to focus on the day’s experiences
Meeting Point
At the tour’s starting point, travelers meet at Eye Travel Excursions, located in Stalida, Greece, along El Venizelou Drapanos.
This central meeting location provides a convenient hub for participants to gather and begin their private tour of Crete’s highlights.
The office is easy to find, situated in the heart of the bustling tourist area.
Once everyone has arrived, the local driver and guide will greet the group and ensure a smooth transition onto the air-conditioned minibus.
From here, the adventure begins as the private tour departs for the scenic coastal drive to Spinalonga island, the first stop on this immersive exploration of Crete’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
Cancellation Policy
Eye Travel Excursions’ cancellation policy offers travelers full refunds if they cancel their tour booking at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled start time.
However, no refunds are provided for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour begins. This policy ensures the company can accommodate last-minute changes while minimizing financial losses.
The cancellation policy includes several key features:
- Flexible 24-hour cancellation window for full refunds
- No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours of the tour
- Designed to balance customer needs and business operations
- Supports the company’s ability to provide reliable, high-quality tours
This straightforward cancellation policy gives travelers peace of mind when booking their Crete excursion with Eye Travel Excursions.
Spinalonga Island
PRIVATE Spinalonga & Agios Nikolaos & Olive Oil Factory CRETE
Spinalonga’s remote island location has captivated visitors for centuries, offering a glimpse into Crete’s captivating history and culture.
Once a leper colony and now a poignant archaeological site, Spinalonga boasts well-preserved Venetian fortifications, crumbling houses, and a haunting atmosphere. Visitors can explore the island’s past, wandering through its narrow streets and ruins.
Beyond the island’s somber history, Spinalonga also showcases stunning natural beauty, with crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs.
A visit to this unique destination provides a deeper understanding of Crete’s resilient spirit and the island’s ability to transform adversity into a place of contemplation and wonder.
Agios Nikolaos
Nestled along the picturesque Gulf of Mirabello, Agios Nikolaos captivates visitors with its charming harbor, bustling markets, and scenic lakeside promenade.
This quaint town offers a delightful blend of Greek island charm and modern amenities:
- Stroll along the tranquil Lake Voulismeni, a picturesque body of water believed to have mythical origins
- Explore the vibrant Agios Nikolaos Market, where you can find an array of local produce, handicrafts, and traditional Cretan delicacies
- Indulge in the town’s thriving cafe culture, sipping on fragrant Greek coffee while people-watching along the waterfront
- Discover the town’s rich history, including the Venetian-era Agios Nikolaos Cathedral and the Archaeological Museum showcasing local artifacts
Olive Oil Factory
The tour’s guided visit to the local olive oil factory offers visitors a chance to learn about the time-honored traditions and modern techniques behind Crete’s renowned olive oil production.
Guests will get to see the entire process, from the harvesting of the olives to the extraction and bottling of the rich, golden liquid.
They’ll discover the careful attention to quality that goes into making Crete’s award-winning olive oil, renowned for its distinct flavour and health benefits.
Visitors can sample different varieties and learn how to identify the characteristics of a superior olive oil.
This behind-the-scenes look provides a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and cultural heritage woven into every bottle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Time Does the Tour Start and End?
The tour is a full-day excursion, but the exact start and end times aren’t specified. Pickup is available from several nearby locations, and the tour includes a boat trip to Spinalonga island and a guided visit to an olive oil factory.
Is Food Provided During the Tour?
The tour includes lunch, providing a full-day dining experience for participants. Plus, the tour features a coffee stop in Agios Nikolaos, ensuring travelers have opportunities to refuel throughout the day’s activities.
Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?
The tour itinerary can likely be customized, though additional fees may apply. Travelers should speak with the tour provider to discuss their preferences and any changes they’d like to make to the standard tour schedule.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The maximum group size for the tour is not explicitly stated, but it’s described as a "private tour," suggesting it’s likely a small group setting with personalized attention. The tour details don’t mention a group size limit.
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 day’s activities, such as the boat trip to Spinalonga island and the guided tour of the olive oil factory.
Recap
This captivating full-day excursion in Crete offers a well-rounded exploration of the island’s rich history, natural beauty, and local traditions.
Uncover the fascinating past of Spinalonga’s former leper colony, stroll through the picturesque harbor of Agios Nikolaos, and gain insight into the intricate olive oil production process.
With convenient pickup and drop-off options, this inclusive tour provides an immersive experience that showcases the cultural heritage and local charm of this remarkable Greek destination.
