Rethymnon: Kournas Lake, Argyroupolis, and Olive Oil Tour

If you’re looking to explore some of Crete’s most stunning natural landscapes without the hassle of driving yourself, this guided tour from Rethymnon offers an engaging way to learn about the island’s scenic side. For around $28, you get a well-rounded experience that includes a visit to the only freshwater lake in Crete, the charming village of Argyroupolis with its lively watersprings, and a fascinating olive oil tasting at a local factory. It’s an itinerary packed with photo-worthy vistas, tasty bites, and authentic local touches—all with the comfort of air-conditioned transport and knowledgeable guides.

What I particularly like about this tour is how it balances sightseeing with tasting and relaxation. The highlight for many is undoubtedly Kournas Lake, where you can pedal a boat and really soak in the tranquility of the water surrounded by mountains. Plus, the stop at Argyroupolis feels like stepping into a timeless village with watersprings that make the place feel almost magical. The olive oil factory visit also offers an interesting glimpse into Crete’s renowned olive oil production, with tastings that make the experience both delicious and educational.

One thing to keep in mind is the overall pace—since this is a full-day trip, it can feel a bit rushed if you want to linger longer at each stop. Also, the tour doesn’t include pickup from some areas like Panormo or the Royal Blue hotel, so you’ll need to plan accordingly. However, with a dedicated guide like Lazaros, who is praised for being both knowledgeable and friendly, you’ll find the journey engaging rather than rushed.

This tour offers excellent value for the price, especially considering the variety of locations visited and the quality of the guide. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a taste of Crete’s natural beauty without the stress of planning or driving, and who appreciate a mix of scenic views, local culture, and good food.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Crete experiences: from watersprings in Argyroupolis to local olive oil production.
• Great value: for about $28, you get a full day with multiple stops, guided commentary, and tastings.
• Stunning scenery: especially at Kournas Lake, the only freshwater lake on the island, with calm waters perfect for pedaling or relaxing by the shore.
• Friendly and knowledgeable guides: Lazaros gets high praise for making the trip informative and fun.
• Comfortable transportation: air-conditioned buses ensure you stay cool, even on hot days.
• Limited area pickup: some locations aren’t included for pickup, so check your hotel or accommodation options.

Starting at the Olive Oil Mill – Crete’s Liquid Gold

The tour kicks off at a local olive oil factory, where you get a behind-the-scenes look at how Crete’s famed olive oil is made. This isn’t just a quick stop; you’ll hear detailed explanations from guides like Lazaros about the production process, which can deepen your appreciation for this staple of Cretan cuisine. Plus, the tasting session afterward allows you to sample fresh olive oil, dried olives, and other local products like Rakomelo. Many reviews mention how fascinating and tasty this part of the tour is, with some even noting that they found the oil so good they bought extra to take home.

Watersprings at Argyroupolis – Nature’s Refreshing Secret

Next, the group heads to Argyroupolis, a village that seems frozen in time. The highlight here is the natural watersprings, which flow constantly and sustain the lush greenery around the village. Walking through the village, you might feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale, especially with the sound of water and the cool shade of trees. Visitors often mention how welcoming the locals are and how special it feels to see a place so untouched by mass tourism. Kelly notes that her guides took her to three different stops, including the watersprings, and she loved the wildlife she saw along the way.

Kournas Lake – The Jewel of Crete’s Inland Waters

The day’s climax is Kournas Lake, the only freshwater lake on the island. The setting is picture-perfect—mountains surrounding the calm waters, with ducks and turtles adding to the scene. You’ll have around 2.5 hours here, enough time to swim, relax, or eat at the lakeside tavern. Many reviewers rave about how stunning the lake is; one even said they’d spend longer there if they could. You can rent a pedalo to glide across the water, which adds a relaxing and fun element to your visit. The lake’s natural beauty and the chance to enjoy a leisurely swim make it a memorable highlight.

Optional Tasty Breaks and Tips

Many travelers recommend trying the local tavernas near the lake, where homemade dishes like Moussaka and Greek salads are affordable and delicious. Be sure to bring your camera—there are plenty of photo opportunities, especially with the mountains, water, and rustic village scenes.

Duration and Timing

This is a full-day tour lasting around 7 hours, with starting times varying so you should check the availability. It’s designed to give you a taste of Crete’s diverse landscapes without feeling rushed, but keep in mind that some reviews mention a slightly hurried pace. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, consider which stops matter most to you.

Transportation and Comfort

The included transportation is air-conditioned, making it comfortable, especially during hot summer days. The group size is not specified but given the reviews praising Lazaros and Kostas, you can expect a friendly and well-organized trip. Note that the tour does not include pickup from some locations like Panormo or the Royal Blue hotel, so plan to meet at designated spots or confirm your pickup time.

Cost and Value

At $28.23 per person, this tour provides significant value—covering transportation, a guide, multiple scenic stops, and tastings. Many reviewers feel it’s worth every penny, especially given the variety of experiences packed into just a few hours.

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the villages
• Sunglasses and sun hat to shield against the sun
• Camera for capturing the beautiful scenery
• Swimsuit if you want to swim at Kournas Lake

Considerations

If you’re not keen on being part of a guided group or prefer to explore at your own pace, this may not be ideal. Also, it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility issues, as some walking and uneven terrain are involved.

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a well-organized, scenic escape from Rethymnon that doesn’t break the bank. It’s a solid choice for those interested in local culture, natural beauty, and good food—especially if you enjoy seeing small villages and tasting authentic products. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find the mix of activities engaging, and the friendly guides help make it feel more like a day out with friends rather than a stiff tour.

If you’re on a tight schedule but still want a taste of Crete’s inland beauty, this tour hits the high points without overloading your day. However, if you prefer more time in each place, consider whether the overall pace suits you.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and the guided visits to the olive oil factory, watersprings at Argyroupolis, and Kournas Lake with some free time for swimming and eating.

Are there any areas not covered by pickup?
Yes, pickup is not available from Panormo, Creta Panorama, Creta Marine, Royal Blue, and Royal Senses hotels. Make sure your accommodation is listed or plan to meet at designated pickup points such as the Opap shop in Stavromenos or the bus stop at 4 Martyrs square.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s mainly designed for able-bodied travelers; people with mobility impairments might find certain stops challenging due to walking on uneven terrain. Children who can sit comfortably during the bus ride and are okay with walking and water activities will enjoy it.

How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll have about 2.5 hours at Kournas Lake, and shorter periods at the watersprings and the olive oil factory. The schedule is somewhat packed, so if you love lingering, you might wish for more time at specific spots.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, and swimwear if you plan to swim. Pack light but be prepared for sunshine and outdoor activities.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This guided tour of Kournas Lake, Argyroupolis, and an olive oil mill offers a rewarding glimpse into Crete’s natural and cultural treasures. It’s ideal for those who want to experience authentic locations without stress, enjoy scenic beauty, and taste the island’s famous products—all in one well-priced package.