Olive Oil Cosmetic Factory- Spinalonga – Elounda – Agios Nikolaos

Introducing a Truly Authentic Crete Experience: A Tour Beyond the Tourist Trail

This private, door-to-door tour offers a deep dive into Crete’s less-visited interior, with a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests. From tasting local wines and olive oils to exploring quaint villages and discovering natural cosmetics, it’s an ideal way to see the island’s authentic side away from the crowds. The trip is designed for those craving genuine Crete—whether you’re a foodie, a history lover, or simply after stunning landscapes—and it’s praised for its knowledgeable guides and high-quality tastings.

What I love most about this tour is the personalized attention it offers. The guides are known for being friendly and well-informed, making each stop engaging without feeling rushed. Plus, the inclusion of stops like the olive oil factory and natural cosmetics store adds a flavorful touch that goes beyond typical sightseeing. The optional Greek lunch at a traditional taverna is another highlight, providing hearty, local cuisine in a relaxed setting.

The main consideration is the price, which at $401.43 per person might seem steep for some travelers. However, when you factor in the personalized service, private transportation, multiple tastings, and unique stops, it offers substantial value—especially if you’re interested in a comprehensive, authentic experience. Keep in mind, entrance and boat tickets are not included, so budget accordingly if you want to visit Spinalonga or go on the boat trip.

This tour suits travelers eager to explore Crete’s interior with an emphasis on quality, local flavor, and comfort. It’s also a good pick if you value flexibility and expert guidance, making for a memorable, less touristy adventure.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Crete: Focuses on unspoiled villages, vineyards, and local producers, giving you a more genuine experience.
• Customizable itinerary: The private format allows you to tailor stops to your preferences.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides like Liam receive praise for friendliness and depth of knowledge.
• High-quality tastings: Includes visits to wineries, olive oil factories, and natural cosmetics stores—offering sensory delights.
• Optional Greek lunch: A 3-course meal at a local taverna can be added for a true taste of Crete’s home cooking.
• Good value for food and wine lovers: The tour’s focus on authentic food and drink makes it especially rewarding for gourmets.

Discovering Crete’s Hidden Charm: A Detailed Review of the Olive Oil Cosmetic Factory & More

If you’re seeking an experience that gets you off the beaten track and into the heart of Crete’s local culture, this private tour checks all the boxes. Spanning from the historic island of Spinalonga to idyllic villages and a natural cosmetics shop, it’s a journey that combines scenic beauty, local flavors, and deep stories, all delivered at your pace.

Starting with a Coastal Charm: Plaka and Spinalonga

Your day begins in Plaka, a picture-perfect fishing village sitting just north of Elounda. Thanks to its traditional taverns and stunning views of Mirabello Bay, it’s a favorite for relaxing and soaking in the seaside atmosphere. The approximately 30-minute stop is free of charge but offers ample opportunity to capture photos or enjoy a coffee before heading to your main boat trip.

Then, a short boat ride across Mirabello Bay takes you to Spinalonga—a small island steeped in history. Accompanied by a guide, you’ll wander through the Venetian fortress, learning about the island’s past from Byzantine times through its role as a leper colony. The review from Robb_S highlights how valuable these guided insights are, especially for travelers interested in local stories. The boat ticket isn’t included, but the experience of walking through the narrow streets with a knowledgeable guide makes it worthwhile.

Elounda and Agios Nikolaos: Seaside Towns with a Local Vibe

Next, your journey leads to the tranquil Elounda village, known for its calm waters protected by Kalydon Island. It’s an ideal spot for a quick stroll or a swim in clear, inviting waters. Then you’ll continue inland to Agios Nikolaos, the island’s lively capital. With its whitewashed buildings and the famous Voulismeni Lake—often called the “bottomless lake”—it’s a lively place to browse shops, sip coffee, or simply enjoy the view. The 1.5-hour stop provides a good balance between exploration and relaxation, according to reviews.

Voulisma Beach: Relax and Refresh

One of the tour’s highlights is Voulisma Beach, renowned for its white sand and turquoise waters. Two hours here allow enough time for a swim and some sunbathing, a perfect break in the middle of your day. Local tavernas along the bay offer opportunities for a leisurely lunch at an additional cost, which many guests find well worth it for the authentic experience.

Authentic Crete: Visiting Bioaroma and the Olive Oil Factory

A key part of the tour is Bioaroma, where you’ll see Crete’s natural herbal cosmetics and essential oils crafted with traditional methods. This stop is especially meaningful for those interested in natural products or seeking a deeper understanding of Crete’s herbal heritage. Although admission is not included, the chance to see how herbal remedies are made using local herbs is fascinating.

The Vassilakis Estate then welcomes you to learn about olive oil production. The tour showcases how Crete’s signature product is made today, with a chance to see traditional and modern machinery. Robb_S mentioned how the visit to the olive oil factory was “an excellent tour,” highlighting the value of seeing the process firsthand and perhaps picking up some local products.

A Touch of Spirituality: Agios Georgios Monastery

Your afternoon concludes with a visit to the Byzantine-era Agios Georgios Monastery, perched on a hilltop overlooking the sea. The peaceful atmosphere and historical architecture offer a quiet moment of reflection—an enriching addition to your day.

How the Pieces Come Together

The tour’s strength lies in its combination of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and authentic taste. The private format allows for flexibility—so if you’re more interested in wine than cosmetics, guides like Liam are happy to accommodate. The inclusive pickup from your hotel within Heraklion makes logistics simple, removing worries about transport, especially when visiting multiple locations.

While the total price may seem high, it’s important to see it as an all-in-one package—covering transportation, expert guiding, and diverse stops—that would otherwise require planning and multiple separate visits. The reviews confirm that guides like Liam and others add significant value, making the experience both educational and fun.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food and wine lovers, history buffs, and those curious about natural products. It’s suited for travelers who appreciate personalized attention and want to see Crete beyond the typical beaches and ruins. If you’re after a relaxed yet immersive day, with plenty of opportunities to indulge your senses and learn about local craftsmanship, this tour hits the mark.

Price and Logistics – Is It Worth It?

At $401.43 per person, the tour isn’t cheap, but it offers a comprehensive, high-quality experience. Keep in mind, entrance fees for Spinalonga and boat tickets aren’t included, so budget for those if you want to fully explore. For travelers staying in Heraklion or nearby areas, the pickup service adds convenience, and the private nature means fewer crowds and more personalized service.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this tour delivers a delightful blend of scenery, culture, and culinary delights. It’s perfect for those who want to experience Crete’s interior at a relaxed pace, with guides who bring local stories to life. The stops at wineries, olive oil factories, and a natural cosmetics shop make it a sensory-rich journey that goes well beyond typical sightseeing.

While it may not be suitable for budget travelers or those seeking a packed, fast-paced itinerary, it offers genuine value for anyone eager to connect with Crete’s authentic traditions. The combination of scenic coastal views, historic sites, and flavorful tastings ensures a memorable day that many reviews have described as “excellent” and “highly recommended.”

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, including families and seniors. The tour is private, so guides can accommodate different needs.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, a hat, sunscreen, swimwear if you plan to swim, and a camera. The stops at Voulisma Beach and the villages are perfect for photos.

Are meals included?
Lunch at a traditional taverna is optional and comes at an extra cost. The rest of the day is centered around tastings and sightseeing.

How long is the tour?
The typical duration is about 7 to 9 hours, depending on your interests and the optional activities you choose.

Can I customize the stops?
Absolutely. The private nature of the tour allows you to tailor the itinerary to your preferences, whether that’s focusing more on wineries or natural cosmetics.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned minivan, with pick-up from your hotel or preferred location within Heraklion.

What about the weather?
The tour requires good weather; if it’s canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

In all, this tour offers a well-rounded look at Crete’s less-visited yet highly rewarding interior. It’s a fantastic choice if you want quality, authenticity, and a touch of indulgence while exploring this beautiful island.