Crete: 2 Wineries Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch

Discover Crete’s Wine Roots with a 2 Wineries Tour and Authentic Lunch

If you’re a wine enthusiast or just someone eager to taste Crete beyond its well-known beaches, this 2 Wineries Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch offers an authentic glimpse into the island’s viticultural traditions. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-organized, immersive experience perfect for those seeking genuine local flavors.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you’ll visit two distinct family-owned wineries with different philosophies, giving you a broader appreciation for Crete’s wine diversity. Second, the guided tours are praised for their knowledgeable guides who share insights into organic and traditional winemaking. Third, the lunch in a traditional village offers a cozy, authentic setting and mouthwatering local dishes paired with fine wines. On the flip side, some travelers might find the seven-hour duration a bit lengthy if they prefer more relaxed sightseeing, but overall, this tour suits those who want a comprehensive taste of Crete’s wine and food culture.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic family-owned wineries with different winemaking philosophies
• Expert guides enhance learning with detailed storytelling
• Tasting a total of 10 wines, including organic options
• Includes a traditional Cretan lunch with wine pairing
• Visits to olive groves and olive oil tasting add extra flavor
• Small group size ensures a personalized experience

An In-Depth Look at the Crete Wineries & Village Experience

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel or specified address, setting a relaxed tone for the day ahead. The small group size—limited to 8 participants—means you’ll get more personalized attention and chances to ask questions, which many reviews highlight as a major plus. The transport is comfortable, and the timing is structured to maximize each stop without feeling rushed.

Visiting the Olive Oil Mill and Olive Groves

The day kicks off with a short 10-minute drive to a local modern olive mill surrounded by lush olive groves. This is where the tour gains a culinary edge. You’ll walk through the olive orchard, learning about olive oil production from the oil maker himself. It’s a rare chance to see the process up close, and the tasting of fresh olive oil paired with local snacks makes this a real highlight. Several reviewers, such as Kaycee, praise the “lots of amazing information” and the chance to meet the olive oil maker, which adds a personal touch to the experience.

First Winery: Organic and Family-Run

Next, you’re off to the first winery, a small, organic family-run operation. This stop is a favorite among guests, especially those interested in organic farming and sustainable practices. You’ll explore the vineyards and the cellar, where expert guides explain the organic cultivation methods. Here, you’ll taste five different wines, each showcasing the distinct profile of Crete’s organic grapes.

Reviewers like Karin mention how “Antonis, our guide, was extremely knowledgeable,” emphasizing that these visits aren’t just about tasting but about understanding the story behind each wine. The emphasis on organic wines indicates a focus on quality and health-conscious production, making the tasting all the more meaningful for connoisseurs.

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Second Winery: Different Philosophy, Same Quality

The second stop, just a short 10-minute drive away, features a second family-owned winery with a contrasting approach to winemaking. Here, you’ll explore the winery and cellar, appreciating the craftsmanship behind their wines. The tasting includes four wines paired with a platter of local delicacies. Guests often comment on the diversity of flavors and the chance to meet the winemakers, fostering a genuine connection to Crete’s wine culture.

Kirsten describes this visit as “an experience where you can exchange views on wine flavors and methods,” highlighting the interactive value of this small-group tour.

The Village Lunch: A Culmination of Flavors

After wine tasting, the tour moves to a picturesque traditional village about 1.5 hours in, where you’ll enjoy a lunch at a local tavern. The setting is relaxed, and reviewers like Emily mention it as “the highlight of our holiday,” with food that is “the best homemade Cretan dishes” they’ve ever tasted. The lunch is paired with local wine, offering a true taste of the region’s culinary heritage.

Guests often rave about the friendly atmosphere and excellent food, which is described as simple yet flavorful, emphasizing fresh ingredients and authentic recipes.

Returning and Reflection

The journey wraps up with a relaxed drive back to your accommodation, leaving you with a full belly, a head full of wine knowledge, and unforgettable memories. The entire day, from olive groves to wine cellars to village tavern, is designed to give an immersive look into Crete’s traditions.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

This experience is particularly well-suited for wine lovers, foodies, and culture enthusiasts looking to go beyond typical sightseeing. The combination of guided tours, tastings, and local cuisine offers excellent value, especially considering the inclusion of 10 different wines and a full lunch in the price.

The small group size means you get personalized attention, while the expert guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. The visits to family-owned wineries using organic methods add a sense of authenticity and support for local producers.

However, keep in mind that seven hours can be a long day if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have limited energy for a full day of activities. Still, for those wanting a comprehensive, flavorful experience of Crete’s wine culture, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking an authentic, educational, and delicious way to explore Crete, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines wine, food, and culture. The visits to distinct wineries with different philosophies provide insight into the island’s diverse approaches to winemaking, while the olive oil tasting and village lunch deepen your appreciation for local culinary traditions.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides make this a personalized journey, and many reviews underscore the warm, friendly atmosphere and high-quality tastings. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they want a real taste of Crete’s heritage.

For those who enjoy interactive, hands-on experiences that connect you to local producers, this tour promises memorable moments and a richer understanding of what makes Crete’s wine and cuisine so special.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers transportation, pick-up and drop-off at your hotel, guided visits to two wineries, wine tastings of 10 different wines, and a full traditional lunch with local dishes and wine.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at a time you’ll need to check availability for, and includes multiple stops, tastings, and a leisurely lunch.

Is the tour suitable for wine beginners?
Absolutely. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, and the focus is on sharing the stories behind each wine, making it accessible for all levels.

What makes the wineries special?
Both are family-owned, with unique philosophies—one is organic and sustainable, and the other uses traditional techniques—offering a diverse tasting experience.

Can I customize the experience?
While the tour has a set itinerary, the small group setting allows for some interaction and questions, making it easier to tailor the experience slightly to your interests.

Is there enough time to enjoy the village and lunch?
Yes. The 1.5-hour stop at the village provides plenty of time for sightseeing, photos, and enjoying a relaxed meal.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking through vineyards and the village. Bringing a hat and sunscreen is advisable if the weather is sunny, and your camera is a must for capturing the scenic views.

In summary, this Crete-based wine and culinary tour offers a genuine taste of the island’s traditions, with knowledgeable guides, authentic family wineries, and a warm village lunch. It’s an ideal choice for those wanting a deep dive into Crete’s wine culture combined with local flavors—an experience that promises new knowledge, delicious tastes, and memorable sights.

You can check if your dates are available here: