Crete: 2 Wineries Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch

If you’re headed to Crete and have even a modest interest in wine, this tour promises a deep dive into the island’s famed vineyards, family-run wineries, and local flavors. Spanning around seven hours, it offers a blend of authentic experiences—olive groves, vineyard tours, and a rustic village lunch—led by guides who know their stuff. From what I’ve seen and read, it’s a compelling way to understand Crete beyond its beaches, especially if you appreciate good wine, homegrown food, and a glimpse into local life.

What I love about this experience is how it combines genuine hands-on activities with plenty of tasting opportunities. Two highlights stand out: first, the chance to meet local winemakers and learn about their unique organic and traditional methods; second, the delicious, home-cooked-style lunch in a small village that’s often described as a highlight by past guests. The guides seem knowledgeable and friendly, making every stop feel like a visit to friends rather than a scripted tour.

One thing to consider is that the tour is quite full, with visits to multiple sites in one day. If you’re the type who prefers slow, contemplative wine tasting, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, the price covers a lot—transport, guided tours, tastings, and a hearty lunch—so it’s excellent value, especially given the small group sizes that foster a more personal experience. The only possible downside is that if you’re not a fan of tours or want more flexibility, this might seem a bit structured.

This tour offers a well-rounded peek into Crete’s wine-making traditions, olive oil craftsmanship, and local cuisine, making it ideal for curious travelers eager to learn and taste. With knowledgeable guides like Antonis and Georgios, the warm hospitality, and the stunning countryside scenery, it’s both educational and very enjoyable. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned connoisseur, you’ll likely find something to love here.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic family-owned wineries: Small, organic, and full of character, offering genuine insights into local winemaking.
• Diverse wine tasting: Experience 10 different wines across the two wineries, including organic varieties and varying philosophies.
• Olive oil immersion: Tour a modern olive mill, meet the producer, and taste fresh olive oil—adding a Greek flavor to your visit.
• Hearty local lunch: Enjoy a traditional village meal in a friendly tavern, paired with wine for a true taste of Crete.
• Small group advantage: Limited to 8 participants, fostering personal interaction and flexibility.
• Expert guides: Highly praised guides like Antonis and Georgios provide engaging and informative commentary.

In-Depth Review of the Crete Wineries and Olive Oil Tour

Setting the Scene: Why This Tour Stands Out

Crete isn’t just about beaches and ancient ruins—its wine and olive oil traditions run deep, stretching back to the Minoan era. This tour captures that essence by taking you to two family-operated wineries, each with its own philosophy and approach. The experience isn’t just about tasting; it’s about understanding how local traditions, organic farming, and craftsmanship produce some of Greece’s finest drinks and food.

The Journey Begins: Comfortable Transportation and Small Group Charm

The tour starts with a convenient pickup from your hotel or specified address, in a comfortable vehicle arranged by Cretan Vioma. With a maximum of eight participants, the small group size ensures you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd. I appreciate guides like Antonis and Georgios who are not only knowledgeable but also passionate about sharing their culture with humor and warmth.

The drive through the lush Cretan countryside is short—around 10 minutes between stops—keeping the pace lively without feeling rushed. This also means you get a good sense of the landscape, with plenty of photo opportunities that past guests have enjoyed.

First Stop: Olive Oil and Olive Grove Tour

Your first visit is to a modern olive mill, located amidst sprawling olive groves. Unlike large-scale monoculture plantations, this is a family-run operation that uses sustainable, organic methods. You’ll get a guided tour of the olive grove, learning how the olives are harvested and processed. An expert olive oil maker shares insights into traditional and modern techniques, which helps you appreciate the quality of the oil.

What makes this stop special is the chance to taste freshly pressed olive oil, often paired with local snacks. The reviews rave about how authentic and flavorful this experience is—some mention it as a highlight of their trip. It’s not just a tasting; it’s an educational moment about a vital part of Cretan life.

Second Stop: Organic Winery with Guided Tour and Tasting

Next, you visit a small, organic winery that embraces environmentally friendly cultivation. Here, you’ll tour the vineyards and see the organic methods firsthand, which adds a layer of respect for how these wines are made. One guest described the guide Antonis as “extremely knowledgeable,” making the experience both engaging and informative.

You’ll taste five different organic wines, each with distinct profiles. The emphasis on organic practices means fewer additives and more authentic flavors—you truly get a sense of terroir. Past visitors emphasize the quality of the wines, with comments like “wonderful wine selection” and “learned so much about Crete and wine making.” Such visits often feel like a peek behind the curtain into local life and tradition.

Third Stop: A Contrasting Winerie with Unique Techniques

The second winery has a different approach—using traditional techniques and distinct winemaking philosophies. You’ll get a tour of their cellar and learn how they craft their four wines, which are paired with a platter of local cheeses, tomatoes, and other specialties. The guide and owners are often present, eager to chat about their methods and share stories.

Guests frequently mention the pleasure of meeting the winemakers directly—it’s a rare opportunity to exchange views and ask questions. Thanks to the diverse approach, you get a well-rounded perspective on Crete’s wine scene, from organic to traditional.

The Village Lunch: A Taste of Cretan Hospitality

After the winery visits, the tour moves to a picturesque village for a hearty, home-style lunch. You’ll dine at a local tavern, where the owner serves up freshly prepared dishes made from local ingredients. Enjoy dishes like stuffed vegetables, fresh bread, and savory cheeses, all paired with the local wine you’ve sampled earlier.

Guests consistently praise this part of the tour as a real highlight, with reviews describing it as “the best home-made Cretan food” they’ve tasted. It’s a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that offers a glimpse into everyday life, away from touristy spots.

Returning with Memories and New Knowledge

The tour wraps up after the meal with a scenic drive back to your accommodation. The overall experience leaves many travelers feeling enriched—not just with wine and food, but with a deeper appreciation of Cretan culture. As one reviewer put it, “the scenery of the countryside is lovely,” and the guides make every moment engaging and memorable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy tasting authentic local products, learning about their origins, and meeting passionate small-scale producers. It suits those with a curiosity about organic farming, traditional methods, and Greek hospitality. If you’re a wine enthusiast, you’ll love sampling a diverse selection and chatting with the winemakers. Food lovers will appreciate the hearty, home-cooked lunch that complements the wine.

It’s also ideal for small groups or couples who prefer personalized attention and a relaxed pace. If you’re after a structured, fast-paced tour with lots of stops, this might feel a little slow. But if you value quality over quantity and enjoy storytelling, this trip delivers.

Price and Value

Considering the guided tours, tastings of 10 wines, olive oil sampling, and a full traditional lunch, the price reflects excellent value. The small-group setting ensures a more intimate, engaging experience, and the guides’ enthusiasm adds a lot of charm. For the price, you’re getting a full day of culture, not just a sightseeing run.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour offers a rare chance to understand Crete’s wine heritage through the eyes of local artisans. It’s best suited for those interested in authentic, small-scale production, and who want more than just pretty scenery—they want stories, flavors, and genuine hospitality. Travelers who enjoy tasting, learning, and relaxed exploration will find it a memorable highlight. It’s also an excellent choice for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to connect with Crete’s vibrant rural life.

If you’re looking for a meaningful, fun, and delicious way to spend a day, this tour stands out as a genuine, well-curated experience.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 7 hours, starting at a time you can check with the provider. It includes multiple stops, tastings, and a traditional lunch.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel or specified address, in a comfortable vehicle.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personal experience and better interaction with guides and hosts.

How many wines will I taste?
You will taste a total of 10 different wines, split between two wineries—five at one winery and four at the other, plus a wine paired with lunch.

Are the wineries family-owned?
Yes, both wineries are family-owned, with one using organic methods and the other employing traditional winemaking techniques.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a full traditional village lunch is included, paired with wine and featuring local dishes.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reservations are flexible; you can book now and pay later.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the focus is on wine tasting, the experience also includes olive oil tasting and a cultural visit, so non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenery and food.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking around vineyards, olive groves, and a village.

Is there an age limit?
The tour is suitable for adults; the minimum age varies by provider but is generally for those of legal drinking age.

This tour offers a solid balance of education, tasting, and local flavor—perfect for anyone eager to taste Crete’s genuine soul beyond the beaches.