Chania: Milia Mountain Tour w/Lunch Olive Oil/Wine Tastings

If you’re visiting Chania and want to step off the beaten path, the Milia Mountain Tour offers a fantastic way to experience Crete’s natural beauty and tradition. The tour takes you through rugged landscapes, to ancient olive trees, and into a mountain retreat that feels a world away from the tourist crowds. It’s a well-rounded day that combines scenic drives, cultural insights, and plenty of tasting opportunities.

What I love about this experience is how it blends off-road adventure with visits to authentic local sites—like the thousands-of-years-old olive tree and the charming Anoskeli winery. Plus, the guides really shine; many reviews praise guides like Nickolas and Stavros for their enthusiasm and knowledge. Another highlight for me is the lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat, which is both hearty and authentic, offering a taste of traditional Cretan food in a stunning mountain setting.

One thing to consider is the length of the day—around 8 hours—so it’s best suited for travelers who want a full, immersive experience rather than a quick sightseeing trip. Also, the tour’s price of $164 includes a lot: tastings, lunch, transportation, and expert guides—meaning it offers solid value for those eager to explore Crete’s interior without renting a car. Still, if you’re not keen on bumping along dirt roads or prefer a more relaxed pace, some might find the off-road element a bit intense.

This tour delivers a genuine taste of Crete—covering history, nature, and local flavors—making it ideal for curious travelers who want an authentic, memorable day out beyond the beaches.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Unique access to scenic mountain sites only reachable by four-wheel drive.
• Learn about the ancient olive tree, believed to be thousands of years old, which still produces fruit.
• Tastings include organic olive oil and five local wines, served alongside authentic snacks.
• Guides like Nickolas and Stavros are highly praised for their local knowledge and engaging personalities.
• Includes a hearty Cretan lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat, offering both vegetarian and traditional options.
• Off-road drive through stunning landscapes, including Topolia Gorge, provides memorable scenery.
• Small group size (up to 6 people) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Duration of about 8 hours makes it a full, immersive experience but not overly long for most travelers.
• Great value considering the inclusions of tastings, lunch, transport, and expert guidance.

Exploring Crete’s Countryside in Style and Substance

Visiting Crete often means relaxing on beaches or wandering through historic towns, but a tour like this opens your eyes to the island’s rugged, authentic heart. Starting from your hotel in Chania, your day begins with a scenic drive into the mountains, where the landscape quickly transforms from coastal charm to wild, untamed beauty. The first stop at Ano Vouves introduces you to the 3,000-5,000-year-old olive tree, still producing fruit today. Standing next to such a living monument, you can’t help but feel connected to the island’s millennia-old olive oil tradition.

What’s especially appealing is how the guide (many reviewers mention Nickolas and Stavros by name) shares stories and insights, making the experience personal and engaging. Their local knowledge turns a simple tasting into a lesson about history, agriculture, and Cretan culture. You’ll learn that olive oil production dates back to ancient times, and many of the techniques are still traditional—something truly special to witness.

Off-Road Adventures and Mountain Retreats

From Ano Vouves, you’ll hop into a sturdy vehicle—most likely a Jeep or SUV—for a drive along rough dirt roads. This part of the tour is genuinely fun, offering spectacular views of the Topolia Gorge and surrounding mountains. Several reviews praise this off-road section as a highlight, allowing you to see parts of Crete inaccessible by rental car. The drive itself feels like an adventure, and you’ll appreciate the natural beauty of the landscape, with rocky cliffs, olive groves, and distant villages.

Your destination, the Milia Mountain Retreat, feels like stepping back in time. The old stone houses, lack of modern electricity, and peaceful surroundings create a sense of tranquility. Many reviewers mention how the retreat’s rustic charm makes you feel like you’re seeing Crete as it once was, but with the comfort of good food and hospitality.

Authentic Olive Oil and Wine Tastings

At Anoskeli’s Olive Mill & Winery, you’ll enjoy sampling organic extra virgin olive oil—warm bread with oregano is the perfect pairing. The guide explains the production process, giving context to why Crete’s olive oil is so highly regarded. Then it’s on to a tasting of five different local wines, paired with cheese, bread, and other snacks. Several reviewers describe the wine as “delicious,” “perfect for the weather,” and praise the variety offered.

The tastings aren’t rushed, and many guests comment on the quality of the olive oil and wines—some claiming the olive oil is the best they’ve ever had. The experience is both educational and delicious, providing a real taste of local craftsmanship.

Hearty Cretan Lunch in the Mountains

After the tastings, it’s time for the lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat. The menu features traditional Cretan dishes, and vegetarians are well accommodated. The food is described as “scrumptious,” “beautiful,” and “authentic.” Many guests say they felt very full and satisfied, with some mentioning particular favorites like stuffed zucchini flowers.

This meal is not just about the food but also about enjoying it in a setting that’s peaceful and stunning. The mountain air, panoramic views, and rustic environment make it a memorable part of the day.

Final Highlights and Scenic Return

The journey back to Chania takes you through the wild landscapes of the Topolia Gorge, where the sheer cliffs and rugged terrain make for a spectacular finale. Many reviews emphasize how much they enjoyed the scenic drive, noting that it’s a great way to see Crete’s interior without the hassle of self-driving or organizing multiple stops.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re interested in local culture, authentic food, and scenic landscapes, this tour hits all those marks. It’s perfect for small groups who want personal attention and a relaxed pace. The off-road drive is ideal for those who enjoy a bit of adventure and stunning views. Food and wine lovers will appreciate the tastings and the hearty lunch, plus the chance to learn about Crete’s agricultural traditions.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, and the day’s length might be a stretch for very tired travelers. Also, the adventure involves some dirt roads and uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Price and Value

At $164 per person, the tour offers good value considering all it includes—transport, tastings, lunch, and guided insights. Many reviews highlight the quality of the food, the friendliness of the guides, and the unique access to inaccessible sites as worth the price. The small group size (limited to six) also enhances the experience, making it more intimate and flexible than larger bus tours.

Final Words

This Milia Mountain Tour from Chania is a thoughtfully curated way to experience Crete’s rural beauty and traditions. It’s a full day of scenic drives, cultural insights, and delicious tastes that leave you with a deeper appreciation for the island. If you love authentic experiences, good food, and a touch of adventure, this tour will serve you well.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included, with pickup from your hotel within a specified radius of Chania.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 8 hours, making it a substantial day out but still manageable for most travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat. Given the mountain setting, layers are wise as it can get warm during the day.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian meals are offered, and if you have any specific food allergies or dietary needs, you should advise beforehand.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The experience is best suited for adults or older children due to the off-road driving and walking involved.

How many people typically join?
The tour limits to 6 participants, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed experience.

What makes this tour special?
It combines scenic mountain landscapes, authentic local tastings, and visits to sites you won’t find on self-guided trips—plus knowledgeable guides who add personal stories.

Is there any time to explore on my own?
Yes, the itinerary includes some free time at stops like Milia Mountain Retreat, where you can walk, take photos, or simply soak in the scenery.

This tour offers a genuine slice of Crete—its history, its landscape, and its flavors—all wrapped into a well-organized day that’s packed with memorable moments. Perfect for curious travelers eager to see more than just the coast and experience authentic Cretan life.