Indulging in the rich flavors of Crete’s renowned olive oil and wine is a captivating experience for any food and wine enthusiast. Visitors can enjoy the island’s age-old traditions, learning the intricate processes behind these celebrated gastronomic delights. From exploring the inner workings of an olive oil factory to uncovering the winemaking heritage at a local winery, this guided tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Crete’s celebrated culinary landscape. But the journey doesn’t end there – the opportunity to savor a delightful Cretan lunch in a scenic village promises to leave a lasting impression on the palate.
Key Points
- This small group tour offers an immersive experience exploring Crete’s renowned olive oil and wine production, with tastings and a scenic village lunch.
- Visitors gain insights into the olive oil production process at the Kanakis factory and sample high-quality olive oils.
- The tour includes a guided visit to the Winery Dourakis vineyard with tastings of the winery’s diverse wine offerings.
- Participants enjoy a delicious lunch in the picturesque village of Vryses, featuring traditional Cretan specialties and local hospitality.
- The tour provides an opportunity to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for Crete’s culinary traditions and artisanal food and wine products.
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Tour Overview
The wine and olive oil tasting tour in Crete, Greece offers a half-day small group experience that includes olive oil and wine tastings, a delicious lunch, and comfortable transportation.
Guests will visit the Kanakis olive oil factory to learn about olive oil production and sample various olive oils. Then, they’ll head to the Winery Dourakis for a guided tour of the vineyard and a tasting of different wine varieties accompanied by snacks.
Afterwards, the group will enjoy a scenic lunch in the village of Vryses. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English or French speaking guide, and all taxes and fees.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, this small group experience provides an intimate and immersive way to explore Crete’s renowned wine and olive oil traditions.
Activities
First, visitors explore the Kanakis olive oil factory, where they learn about the intricate process of olive oil production. They then sample a variety of the factory’s high-quality olive oils, allowing them to appreciate the nuances in flavor and aroma.
Next, the tour moves to the Winery Dourakis, where guests enjoy a guided tour of the vineyard. They’ll gain insights into the winemaking process and have the opportunity to taste several different wine varieties, accompanied by delightful snacks.
The day culminates with a delicious lunch in the scenic village of Vryses, where guests can savor the local flavors and soak in the picturesque surroundings.
Inclusions
This tour includes a hotel pick-up and drop-off service for the Rethymno district, providing convenient transportation for participants. An English or French speaking guide accompanies the group, sharing their expertise throughout the experience.
Visitors will travel by air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey. The tour also features an olive oil tasting with coffee, allowing guests to sample the high-quality oils produced in the region.
The tour includes a guided tour of the winery, tastings of different wine varieties, a delicious lunch with a vegetarian option available, and all taxes and fees covered.
With these comprehensive inclusions, guests can fully enjoy the wine and olive oil culture of Crete.
Additional Information
Maximum of 8 travelers are permitted per tour, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but stroller accessible for those with young children. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is conveniently located near public transportation options.
Infant seats are available for families with little ones. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, so travelers can rest assured their spot is secured.
With these accessibility and convenience factors in mind, this wine and olive oil tasting tour in Crete promises an enjoyable and hassle-free day exploring the region’s renowned products. Whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a small group, this experience caters to a variety of needs.
Pricing and Cancellation
The price of the tour varies depending on the size of the group, with discounts available for larger parties.
Travelers can take advantage of a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience begins, providing flexibility in their plans.
The tour offers several benefits for guests:
- Competitive pricing that can be adjusted based on group size
- Hassle-free cancellation option up to a day before the tour
- Ability to plan with confidence, knowing costs and changes are manageable
- Opportunity to explore Crete’s renowned olive oil and wine offerings within a reasonable budget
These pricing and cancellation policies make the Wine and Olive Oil Tasting tour an attractive option for those looking to indulge in Crete’s culinary delights without breaking the bank.
Olive Oil Tasting
Visitors start their olive oil tasting experience at the Kanakis olive oil factory, where they learn about the intricate process of olive oil production from the knowledgeable guide.
They’ll discover the meticulous steps involved, from harvesting the olives to extracting the pure, golden liquid. As they sample the various olive oils, they’ll pick up on the subtle nuances in flavor, aroma, and texture. The guide encourages them to compare the different varieties, helping them develop a discerning palate.
This hands-on experience provides a deeper appreciation for the care and craftsmanship that goes into creating high-quality olive oil, leaving visitors with a newfound respect for this essential Mediterranean ingredient.
Winery Tour and Tasting
After exploring the olive oil production process, the tour group then heads to Winery Dourakis for a guided tour and wine tasting.
They’ll stroll through the scenic vineyard, learning about the grape varietals and winemaking techniques from the knowledgeable staff.
The highlight of the visit is sampling the winery’s diverse offerings, from crisp whites to bold reds, as they savor the complex flavors and aromas that have been meticulously cultivated.
The tour includes:
- A guided walk through the rows of grapevines, learning about the region’s microclimate and soil conditions
- An in-depth explanation of the fermentation and aging process
- Tasting several signature wines and discussing the subtle notes and characteristics
- The opportunity to purchase bottles to enjoy at home
Scenic Village Lunch
Following the winery tour, the group makes their way to the scenic village of Vryses, where they’ll enjoy a delightful lunch featuring locally-sourced ingredients and traditional Cretan specialties.
The quaint village offers a picturesque setting, with its cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and lush olive groves.
As they’re seated at a charming family-owned taverna, the group is treated to an array of Cretan meze, including creamy tzatziki, tangy feta, marinated olives, and fresh-baked bread.
The main course features hearty dishes like hearty moussaka, juicy souvlaki, and vibrant salads.
Throughout the meal, the guide provides insights into the region’s culinary traditions and the importance of using locally-grown, seasonal produce.
It’s a delightful and authentic taste of Cretan hospitality.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Type of Clothing Is Recommended for the Tour?
The recommended clothing for the tour is casual and comfortable. Participants should wear lightweight, breathable fabrics that allow for easy movement, as they’ll be doing some walking and exploring during the day’s activities.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Lunch?
The tour includes a lunch with a vegetarian option, so participants with dietary restrictions can be accommodated. The guide will work with the restaurant to ensure everyone’s needs are met during the meal.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Preferences?
The tour can be customized to accommodate individual preferences. The company is happy to make adjustments, such as providing a non-vegetarian lunch option, to ensure each traveler has an enjoyable and personalized experience.
How Long Is the Duration of the Entire Tour?
The tour lasts for half a day. It’s a small group experience that includes hotel pickup, transportation, olive oil and wine tastings, a guided winery tour, and lunch, before dropping you back off at your hotel.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?
The tour price varies based on group size, so larger groups may be eligible for discounts. However, the exact discount amount is not specified in the available information.
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Recap
This immersive tour offers a well-rounded insight into Crete’s renowned olive oil and wine production.
Visitors explore a renowned olive oil factory, savor exceptional oils, and experience a guided winery tour and tasting.
The scenic village lunch showcases the local culinary traditions and hospitality.
This small-group experience provides a comprehensive introduction to Crete’s celebrated gastronomic offerings.