Discover the enchanting wine country of Heraklion on a private SUV tour. Over 8 hours, you’ll visit two award-winning wineries, sample 14 exquisite local wines, and savor a Cretan brunch and 4-course lunch. With a knowledgeable sommelier as your guide, learn about the island’s gastronomic heritage while taking in stunning vineyard views. This comprehensive experience offers a chance to explore Crete’s rich wine culture and uncover the flavors that make it truly unique. What secrets await as you explore the heart of this captivating region?
Key Points
- Private SUV transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off included in the tour price of $206.56 per person.
- Tour duration of 8 hours with visits to two award-winning wineries and a medieval wine press, offering tastings of 14 selected wines.
- Guided tours of vineyards, cellars, and historical sites, complemented by a Cretan brunch with organic wine tasting.
- 4-course lunch showcasing traditional Cretan cuisine with fine wine pairings, highlighting the island’s rich gastronomic heritage.
- Expert sommelier guidance (WSET certified) throughout the tour, providing insights on winemaking processes and local grape varieties.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This private SUV wine tour in Heraklion typically costs from $206.56 per person and lasts for 8 hours, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
Guests can select from four pickup locations: Heraklion, Malia, or Agia Pelagia.
The tour includes visits to two award-winning wineries and a medieval wine press, as well as guided tours of the vineyards, cellars, and historical sites.
Travelers will have the opportunity to taste 14 selected wines, including 11 from local grape varieties.
The tour also features a Cretan brunch with organic wine tasting and a 4-course lunch paired with fine wines.
Hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional Sommelier guide, and all entrance fees are included in the price.
Itinerary and Experience
The private SUV wine tour kicks off with pickup from the traveler’s hotel in Heraklion, Malia, or Agia Pelagia, providing a convenient start to the day’s exploration.
Next, the tour visits two award-winning wineries and a medieval wine press, where guests enjoy guided tours of the vineyards, cellars, and historical sites. Along the way, they’ll taste 14 selected wines, including 11 from local grape varieties.
The experience also includes a Cretan brunch with organic wine tasting and a 4-course lunch featuring traditional cuisine paired with fine wines.
Scenic views and walks through the vineyards enhance the dining experience, making for an immersive and delightful day of discovery.
Culinary Highlights
Brunch on this private wine tour features a delightful pairing of organic wines with local cheeses, homemade marmalades, and extra virgin olive oil. This culinary experience sets the stage for the day’s exploration of Crete’s vineyards and wineries.
The subsequent 4-course lunch showcases traditional Cretan cuisine, with each dish perfectly complemented by fine wines. From starters to dessert, the flavors of the island come alive, enhanced by the scenic views and leisurely walks through the vineyards.
This culinary journey allows travelers to savor the essence of Crete, blending its rich gastronomic heritage with the acclaimed wines that have put the region on the map.
Included Services
A private SUV and hotel pickup and drop-off are included in this wine tour, providing seamless transportation for participants. A professional sommelier (WSET certified) guides the group throughout the day, sharing expert knowledge on the local wines and vineyards. Bottled water and all entrance fees are also covered, so travelers can focus on fully seeing the Cretan winemaking experience. Gratuities and personal expenses, however, are not included in the tour price.
| Included Services | Excluded Services |
|---|---|
| Private SUV Transportation | Gratuities |
| Hotel Pickup and Drop-off | Personal Expenses |
| Professional Sommelier Guide | – |
| Bottled Water & Entrance Fees | – |
Participant Information
Participants should be aware that this tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or heart problems.
The tour is designed for participants who are able to walk and stand for extended periods. Those with health conditions that could be exacerbated by the tour should consult their healthcare provider before booking.
Comfortable shoes and a passport or ID card (copy accepted) are recommended items for the tour. Guests are encouraged to dress comfortably and bring any necessary personal items to ensure a smooth and pleasant journey through Crete’s renowned wine country.
Smoking indoors and bare feet aren’t allowed during the experience.
Pickup and Drop-off Options
Heraklion: Private SUV Wine Tour With Lunch
Pickup and Drop-off Options
From your hotel in Heraklion, Malia, or Agia Pelagia, the tour van will promptly pick you up to embark on this immersive wine adventure.
During the 8-hour excursion, you’ll visit two award-winning wineries and a medieval wine press, accompanied by a knowledgeable sommelier.
At the end of the day, you’ll be returned to your original pickup location, having experienced Crete’s rich wine culture and indulged in a delectable Cretan brunch and multi-course lunch paired with fine local vintages.
With convenient hotel transfers, you can relax and fully savor the flavors and scenery of this personalized wine tour.
Winery and Historical Sites
After being picked up from their hotel, guests embark on a winery and historical tour, visiting two award-winning vineyards and a medieval wine press along the way.
At the first winery, they’ll receive a guided tour of the vineyards, cellars, and tasting rooms, learning about the local grape varieties and winemaking processes.
The second winery offers a similar experience, allowing guests to sample 11 different wines.
In between, they’ll visit a medieval wine press, providing a fascinating glimpse into Crete’s rich wine heritage.
Throughout the day, the knowledgeable sommelier shares insights and anecdotes, enhancing the overall experience.
With scenic walks through the vineyards and a hearty Cretan lunch to look forward to, this tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Heraklion’s renowned wine culture.
Expert Sommelier Guidance
A knowledgeable sommelier (WSET) guides guests throughout the tour, sharing insights and anecdotes that enhance the overall wine tasting experience. The sommelier’s expertise shines through in their detailed explanations of the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of local grape varieties.
They provide recommendations on the best pairings between the wines and the traditional Cretan dishes served during the lunch. Captivating stories about the history and heritage behind the award-winning wineries visited further enrich the experience.
Engaging conversations foster a deeper appreciation for the art and science of winemaking. Plus, the sommelier offers personalized attention to each guest’s preferences, ensuring everyone leaves with a newfound love for Cretan wines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Request a Specific Dietary Preference for the Lunch?
Yes, you can request a specific dietary preference for the lunch. The tour operator should be able to accommodate dietary requirements like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free upon request when booking the tour.
Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration for an Additional Fee?
Yes, it’s possible to extend the tour duration for an additional fee. Guests can discuss their preferences with the tour provider, who can accommodate requests to adjust the itinerary and length of the experience as needed.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Private SUV Tour?
The private SUV wine tour has no set maximum group size, as it’s a private experience tailored to the traveler’s needs. The tour can accommodate small groups, typically up to 6 people, to provide a personalized and intimate experience.
Are Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?
The private SUV wine tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or children. The tour price is a flat rate per person, regardless of age. Discounts may be available for larger group sizes, but are not specifically mentioned for individual travelers.
Can I Request a Modified Itinerary to Visit Different Wineries?
Yes, the tour provider can likely accommodate a modified itinerary to visit different wineries. Guests should simply request this when booking the tour, as the provider aims to tailor the experience to individual preferences when possible.
Recap
Discover the essence of Crete’s wine culture on this immersive SUV tour.
Savor award-winning wines, indulge in traditional Cretan cuisine, and uncover the island’s rich gastronomic heritage.
With an expert sommelier leading the way, you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey through stunning vineyards and historical sites, making this experience a must for wine enthusiasts.
