Rethymno, the captivating town on the island of Crete, offers a unique half-day tour that combines the natural beauty of Kournas Lake with the rich cultural heritage of the region. Visitors can expect to enjoy the enchanting landscape, learn about the intricate process of olive oil production, and savor the distinctive flavors of Cretan wines. This tour promises a well-rounded experience, blending the region’s stunning natural wonders with its deep-rooted culinary traditions. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a connoisseur of fine oils and wines, or simply seeking a memorable adventure, this tour provides an enticing glimpse into the essence of Crete.
Key Points
- This half-day tour from Rethymno offers an immersive experience at Kournas Lake, an olive oil factory, and a winery, all for $363.14 per group of up to 6 participants.
- The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a multilingual guide/driver, guided tours, tastings, and pedalo boat riding, with a duration of 5.5 hours.
- Highlights of the tour include exploring Kournas Lake, visiting the Kanakis Olive Oil Factory, and participating in a wine tasting at Dourakis Winery.
- The tour provides an opportunity to learn about Crete’s agricultural heritage, appreciate the region’s natural beauty, and indulge in local culinary delights.
- The tour features a flexible cancellation policy and a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option, ensuring a seamless and customer-friendly booking process.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This half-day tour from Rethymno offers a comprehensive experience, featuring a visit to a local olive oil factory, a tasting at a renowned winery, and an exploration of the picturesque Kournas Lake, all for a starting price of $363.14 per group (up to 6 participants).
The tour lasts 5.5 hours and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a multilingual guide/driver, guided tours, tastings, and various activities like pedalo boat riding.
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy and reserve now with the option to pay later.
With a focus on immersing visitors in the local culture and flavors, this tour provides an excellent way to discover the highlights of the Rethymno region.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with a 30-minute van ride to the picturesque Kournas Lake, where travelers enjoy 1.5 hours to explore the area, take photos, go for a swim, and experience pedalo boat riding.
Next, the group heads to the Kanakis Olive Oil Factory for a 15-minute drive and a 1-hour guided tour and tasting.
Afterward, they visit the Dourakis Winery, also a 15-minute drive away, for a 2-hour wine tasting and tour of the production and storage areas.
The tour concludes with a 40-minute van ride back to Rethimno.
Throughout the day, the multilingual guide-driver provides commentary and ensures a seamless experience for the participants.
Activities and Experiences at Kournas Lake
At Kournas Lake, travelers can indulge in a relaxing coffee break, glide across the serene waters on pedalo boats, and observe the diverse wildlife like turtles, ducks, and fish in their natural habitat.
The picturesque lake offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city, allowing visitors to soak in the serene surroundings and reconnect with nature.
Pedal-boating on the lake is a popular activity, providing a unique vantage point to appreciate the stunning landscape and spot the local wildlife.
Whether it’s enjoying a refreshing beverage or exploring the lake’s tranquil waters, Kournas Lake promises a delightful and rejuvenating experience for all who visit.
Olive Oil Factory Tour and Tasting
Travelers embark on a guided tour of the Kanakis Olive Oil Factory, where they learn about the meticulous process of producing high-quality olive oil. The knowledgeable guide leads them through the factory, explaining the traditional methods used to extract the precious liquid from the olive fruit.
Visitors observe the state-of-the-art equipment and machinery that ensures the oil’s purity and flavor. At the end of the tour, they’re invited to sample the various olive oils and even the local raki spirit.
This hands-on experience allows travelers to appreciate the care and craftsmanship that goes into every bottle. It’s a unique opportunity to take in Crete’s rich agricultural heritage.
Winery Tour and Wine Tasting
After exploring the olive oil factory, visitors then venture to the nearby Dourakis Winery for an immersive wine tasting experience.
A knowledgeable guide leads them on a tour through the production and storage areas, explaining the meticulous winemaking process.
Guests then sample an array of the winery’s finest vintages, accompanied by a light lunch to complement the flavors.
The winery’s picturesque setting and friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere, allowing guests to fully appreciate the art of winemaking.
With a focus on quality and tradition, the Dourakis Winery offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich wine culture of Rethymno.
Inclusions in the Tour Package
The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, providing convenient transportation for participants.
A multilingual guide/driver accompanies the group throughout the excursion, offering insights and expertise.
Visitors also receive a guided tour and tasting at the Kanakis Olive Oil Factory, where they can sample the facility’s premium olive oils and raki.
The winery tour and wine tasting at Dourakis Winery are also part of the package, allowing guests to explore the production and storage areas and sample a variety of local wines.
Breakfast/brunch, coffee, and other beverages are provided, as well as pedalo boat riding at Kournas Lake.
Participants also receive souvenirs from the olive oil factory and winery as keepsakes of their experience.
Important Information for Participants
Participants should arrive in the hotel lobby 5 minutes prior to the scheduled pickup time. The tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing for inclusive participation. Visitors are advised to bring comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, and a change of clothes to fully enjoy the various activities throughout the day.
| Important Information | |
|---|---|
| Pickup Time | 5 minutes prior to scheduled time |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible |
| Recommended Items | Comfortable shoes, hat, swimwear, change of clothes |
The tour ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants, catering to their needs and preferences. By following these guidelines, visitors can maximize their time and fully enjoy the wine tasting, olive oil factory visit, and Kourna Lake exploration.
Cancellation Policy and Payment Options
Flexible cancellation policies and convenient payment options make booking the Rethymno wine tasting and olive oil factory tour a hassle-free experience.
Travelers can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, while the ‘reserve now, pay later’ option allows them to secure their spot without an upfront payment. This gives customers the flexibility to adjust their plans if needed, without worrying about losing their money.
The tour provider understands that travel plans can change, so they’ve designed their policies to prioritize customer satisfaction.
With these user-friendly features, booking this immersive cultural experience in Rethymno is a breeze.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?
The minimum number of participants required for this tour is 1. The tour price is based on a group size of up to 6 participants, so a single traveler can book and participate in the tour.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Charges Not Included in the Quoted Price?
The quoted price includes all fees and charges for the tour. There are no additional costs or hidden fees that participants need to pay. The price covers all activities, transportation, and services as described in the tour itinerary.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Special Dietary Needs?
The tour can be customized to accommodate special dietary needs. The tour provider is happy to modify the food and beverage offerings to cater to any dietary restrictions or preferences upon request.
Is There a Dress Code or Any Specific Requirements for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat, swimwear, and a change of clothes for the lake activities. Casual, weather-appropriate attire is recommended.
What Is the Process for Booking and Reserving the Tour?
To book the tour, customers can reserve online and pay later. There’s also a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. Customers can easily manage their booking and receive confirmation details through the provided options.
Recap
The Rethymno Half Day Tour offers a captivating blend of natural wonders, culture, and culinary delights.
Explore the serene Kournas Lake, indulge in a guided olive oil tasting, and savor exquisite wines – all while accompanied by a knowledgeable multilingual expert.
This tour promises an unforgettable escape, showcasing the best of Crete’s stunning landscapes, rich heritage, and delectable flavors.
