Chania’s full moon olive harvest is an enchanting tradition that allows participants to experience the ancient practice of handpicking olives under the glow of the night sky. This unique five-hour tour immerses visitors in Crete’s rich agricultural heritage, offering tastings of local olive oils and wines, as well as a delectable Cretan lunch. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the experience promises to deepen one’s connection to the island’s stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or seeking a new cultural discovery, this intimate olive harvest promises an unforgettable glimpse into Crete’s captivating traditions.
Key Points
- Immersive olive harvesting experience under the full moon in the scenic Lefka Oroi region of Crete.
- Guided tour led by an English and Greek-speaking local, providing cultural insights into ancient olive-picking traditions.
- Tasting of Cretan olive oils, wines, and local delicacies to savor the region’s gastronomic heritage.
- Easy-rated tour suitable for all ages, with comfortable attire and dietary restrictions catered for.
- Roundtrip transportation to the olive groves and all necessary fees included in the tour price.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The full moon olive harvest experience in Chania is priced from $152.20 per person and lasts for 5 hours, with a limited group size of up to 10 participants.
This unique opportunity is available from November 14-16, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can reserve their spot with no upfront payment, paying later.
The tour offers a chance to handpick olives in a magical atmosphere, taste local products, and enjoy a scenic lunch amidst the Lefka Oroi.
With a local guide fluent in English and Greek, participants can enjoy the traditional olive harvesting culture of Crete.
Experience Highlights
Guests can enjoy the unique experience of handpicking olives under the full moon in a magical atmosphere.
Led by a local guide fluent in English and Greek, you will have the opportunity to get a hands-on taste of Cretan olive harvesting traditions.
The experience also includes:
- Tasting of local products, such as olive oil and wines, to appreciate the flavors of the region.
- A lunch featuring delectable local delicacies, allowing visitors to savor the culinary heritage of Crete.
- Breathtaking views of the Lefka Oroi (White Mountains), setting the stage for a truly memorable culture.
Location and Meeting Point
The olive groves where the full moon olive harvest takes place are located in the Kera Treasures of Crete region, in the Armenoi area of Apokoronas. Participants will meet at a specified location near the olive grove, and Google Maps provides easy directions to get there.
| Location | Meeting Point | Google Maps Link |
|---|---|---|
| Olive groves in Kera Treasures of Crete, Armenoi, Apokoronas region | Specified meeting point near the olive grove | Google Maps |
Getting to the harvest site is straightforward, and the tour organizers will ensure participants have all the necessary information to arrive at the designated meeting point on time and ready to experience the unique full moon olive harvest.
Tour Details and Recommendations
Difficulty of the tour is easy, making it suitable for children.
Participants should wear comfortable shoes and clothes, avoiding shorts and sandals. Any dietary restrictions (gluten, lactose, nuts, alcohol) should be communicated to the tour personnel.
The tour offers a unique and enchanting experience, immersing participants in the ancient traditions of olive harvesting under the magical light of a full moon.
Guests will have the opportunity to:
- Handpick olives in a serene and picturesque setting
- Savor local delicacies and sample the region’s renowned olive oil and wines
- Enjoy scenic views of the Lefka Oroi (White Mountains)
This cultural excursion promises to be a truly unforgettable and authentic adventure.
Inclusions and Logistics
All entrance fees, taxes, and insurance are included in the tour price. Tasting activities are fully covered.
Transportation time isn’t included in the 5-hour duration, and participants must exchange their voucher at the ticket counter before the tour begins.
The tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the traditional olive harvest under the full moon. Guests can expect to engage in hands-on olive picking, taste local products like olive oil and wine, and enjoy a lunch featuring regional delicacies.
With a maximum group size of 10, the experience offers an intimate and immersive cultural encounter.
Participants should dress comfortably and inform the organizers of any dietary restrictions to ensure a seamless and enjoyable full moon olive harvest experience.
Olive Harvesting Traditions
Olive harvesting holds a deep-rooted cultural significance in the Cretan landscape, passed down through generations of local farmers. This ancient tradition is steeped in reverence for the land and its bounty, fostering a profound connection between the people and their olive groves.
During the full moon olive harvest, participants are invited to enjoy this timeless ritual, experiencing the beauty and serenity of hand-picking olives under the celestial glow.
The harvest is a sensory delight, with the:
- Melodic rhythm of raking olives from the branches
- Earthy aroma of freshly picked produce
- Serene tranquility of working in harmony with nature
This unique experience offers a rare glimpse into the enduring olive harvesting traditions that define Crete’s cultural identity.
Tasting of Local Products
The tasting of local products during the Full Moon Olive Harvest experience allows visitors to savor the flavors that define Cretan cuisine.
Participants can indulge in a selection of olive oils, wines, and other delicacies produced by the local community, providing an intimate glimpse into the region’s gastronomic heritage.
Guests will sample the distinct notes and aromas of the locally sourced ingredients, gaining a deeper appreciation for the time-honored traditions that shape Crete’s culinary landscape.
From the robust, peppery notes of the freshly pressed olive oil to the fruity, well-balanced local wines, every bite and sip offers a sensory journey through the island’s rich agricultural bounty.
Scenic Views of Lefka Oroi
Stunning vistas of the Lefka Oroi (White Mountains) provide a breathtaking backdrop to the olive harvest experience, captivating participants with their rugged grandeur.
These ancient, snow-capped peaks rise majestically, painting a picturesque scene that enhances the magic of the evening. As the moon casts its soft glow over the olive groves, the Lefka Oroi seem to shimmer, evoking a sense of wonder and tranquility.
Participants can:
- Gaze in awe at the jagged, rugged peaks that tower above the landscape
- Marvel at the interplay of light and shadow as the moon illuminates the mountains
- Feel a deep connection to the land and its timeless beauty
The Lefka Oroi’s stunning presence ensures the olive harvest unfolds against a backdrop of pure, natural splendor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Weather Like During the Olive Harvest?
The weather during the olive harvest is typically mild and dry. Temperatures average around 20°C (68°F), with clear skies and low humidity. Evenings can be cooler, so dressing in layers is recommended for the full moon experience.
Can I Purchase the Olive Oil and Wines Sampled on the Tour?
Yes, participants can purchase the olive oil and wines sampled during the tour. The local products, including olive oil and wines, are available for purchase at the end of the experience.
How Skilled Do I Need to Be at Olive Picking?
The tour doesn’t require any special olive-picking skills. It’s suitable for beginners and families, with a local guide providing hands-on instruction. As long as you’re comfortable with light manual labor, you can participate in the unique full moon harvest experience.
Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?
There are restroom facilities available at the meeting point and during the olive harvest tour. However, the facilities may be basic as the tour takes place in a rural olive grove setting.
Can I Take Photos or Videos During the Olive Harvesting Activity?
Yes, participants are encouraged to take photos and videos during the olive harvesting activity. The tour allows ample opportunity to capture the unique experience of handpicking olives under the full moon.
Recap
This enchanting full moon olive harvest tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with Crete’s rich agricultural heritage.
Participants can enjoy the ancient tradition of handpicking olives, enjoy tastings of local olive oils and wines, and savor a delicious Cretan lunch – all while surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the Lefka Oroi mountains.
It’s an intimate experience not to be missed.
