Gastronomy tour and wine tasting in traditional villages

If you’re craving a taste of what makes Crete special, a gastronomy tour and wine tasting through its charming villages might just be the experience for you. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of an authentic, immersive journey into Cretan cuisine, history, and hospitality.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it offers a well-balanced mix of delicious food, beautiful scenery, and local insights. Second, the expert-guided visits to traditional cheese factories and olive oil mills promise a behind-the-scenes look at age-old craftsmanship. Third, the carefully curated stops at family-owned tavernas with stunning views bring a genuine taste of local life.

One thing to keep in mind—this tour is quite full, so you’ll want to come hungry and eager to learn. It’s best suited for travelers who love authentic food, scenic drives, and discovering lesser-known villages. If you’re after a relaxed, flavorful day off the beaten path, this experience is likely to hit the spot.

Good To Know

• Authentic Crete cuisine: Includes cheese, honey, olive oil, smoked meats, and traditional sweets.
• Beautiful rural scenery: Stops include mountain villages and lakeside locations with stunning views.
• Expert-guided visits: Tours of olive oil mills and old churches enrich the experience.
• Local family-owned tavernas: Offers genuine, home-cooked meals with dishes you won’t find in standard restaurants.
• Hassle-free: Pickup, transportation, and all fees included make it convenient.
• Limited group size: With a maximum of eight travelers, expect personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.

A Deep Dive into the Cretan Gastronomy Tour

Starting Point: A Traditional Coffeehouse in Armeni

The tour kicks off in Armeni, where you’ll be welcomed into a cozy, shaded coffeehouse surrounded by lush trees and flowing streams. Here, you’ll get to taste Greek coffee crafted the traditional way, slow-cooked in hot sand. This method boosts the flavor and aroma, offering a genuine taste of local coffee-making traditions.

Our guide, Yannis, was praised for his friendliness and knowledge, making this first stop much more than just a caffeine fix. Reviewers mention how Yannis shared stories about the landscape and local customs, setting an engaging tone for the day. Expect about 30 minutes here, with no admission fee, making it a relaxed start.

Indulge in Unique Local Ice Cream in Fres

Next, you’ll visit Fres, where the highlight is sheep milk ice cream, a rare treat exclusive to Chania. Reviewers describe this as “the best ice cream they’ve ever had,” with a distinct flavor that’s difficult to find elsewhere. You’ll also taste carob ice cream, a special flavor unique to this part of Crete—reviewers call it “unlike anything else in the world.”

Here, you’ll also sample Cretan cheese graviera, the cheese used in saganaki, and have the chance to try raki, the strong local spirit. The guide facilitates insights into cheese and dairy production, adding context to the tasting. About 30 minutes are allocated, with free admission.

Exploring Apokoronas and its Old Church

A highlight of the tour is a visit to a 500-year-old church, featuring stunning architecture and a charming garden filled with herbs and fruit trees, such as figs, apricots, and walnuts. Reviewers loved how this stop blends history and nature, giving a peaceful break from the drive.

This stop lasts about 45 minutes and is free of charge. It’s an excellent chance to stroll among historic walls and fragrant herbs, soaking in the tranquility and beauty of rural Crete.

Olive Oil Mill Tour in Georgioupolis

The tour then takes you to a modern olive oil mill in Georgioupolis, where Antonis, the producer and a friend of the guide, will walk you through the process of olive oil making. Visitors love how approachable and knowledgeable Antonis is, answering questions about everything from olives to bottling.

Tasting fresh virgin olive oil and selecting souvenirs from the local shop are part of this stop. It’s a practical way to understand and appreciate the importance of olive oil on Crete. The visit lasts around 45 minutes, and the experience is free but highly informative.

Scenic Lunch at Lake Kournas

One of the most memorable parts of the tour is the lunch at Lake Kournas, a stunning spot where freshwater meets sea views, mountains frame the landscape, and the atmosphere is relaxed. Here, you’ll try several traditional Cretan dishes, including tsigariasto arni (lamb cooked with wine), ntolmadakia (stuffed grape leaves), and imam baildi (eggplant with tomato and cheese).

Complementing the meal, you’ll enjoy tasting four local wines, carefully selected to pair with the dishes. Reviewers mention the beautiful lake setting next to a family-owned tavern, which makes the experience feel both special and authentic. Expect about 75 minutes here, with no additional charge.

Second Meal in Apokoronas

In the late afternoon, the tour moves to a different village in Apokoronas for a second meal featuring distinctive dishes like chicken cooked with grape juice, smoked pork with herbs, and marinated mushrooms. This diversity showcases Crete’s culinary versatility.

Again, the food is prepared by a family-owned restaurant, emphasizing local ingredients and home cooking. Many reviews highlight how the variety and quality of food exceeded expectations, especially given the included price.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

At $207.43 per person, this tour packs in almost six hours of guided exploration, food, wine, and scenic viewpoints. Considering that meals, wine tastings, and entrance fees are included, it’s a comprehensive way to experience Crete beyond the usual tourist spots.

The tour’s small group size (up to 8 guests) allows for a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and engage with guides. Guests consistently praise Yannis for his knowledgeable commentary and friendly demeanor, which elevates the entire outing.

The Authenticity Factor

Unlike generic tours, this experience emphasizes family-run establishments and local artisans, like the cheese shop owner and olive oil producer. This means you’ll enjoy genuine Cretan hospitality and learn about traditional food production methods that have endured centuries.

Scenic Value and Relaxation

The stops are thoughtfully chosen for their picturesque settings—mountain villages, lakeside views, and lush gardens—making this more than just a food tour. Expect to enjoy moments of peace while absorbing the countryside’s natural beauty, which complements the culinary delights.

Flexibility and Comfort

Pickup and drop-off are included, reducing travel stress. The tour runs either in the morning (9:30-15:00) or other flexible times, giving you options depending on your schedule. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available, accommodating various dietary needs.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is ideal for food lovers eager to discover authentic Cretan cuisine in a relaxed, scenic setting. It’s also perfect for small groups and travelers who prefer an intimate, guided exploration over large, bus-based excursions.

If you enjoy scenic drives, cultural stops, and local storytelling, you’ll find plenty to love here. However, be prepared for a full day with lots of tasting and walking—so come hungry and ready to indulge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your designated location and returns you at the end, making it convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on the stops and pace.

Are vegetarian or gluten-free options available?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available, ensuring all dietary needs are catered for.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 8 travelers, which allows for a more personalized and relaxed experience.

Can I visit the olive oil mill?
Yes, there’s a guided tour of a modern olive oil mill, where you can learn about the process and taste fresh virgin olive oil.

What are the main highlights?
Key highlights include tasting traditional cheeses and honey, visiting historic churches, touring an olive oil mill, and enjoying scenic lakeside and mountain views while sampling authentic dishes and local wines.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The age restriction is 18+ for alcoholic beverages, but families with older children interested in food and culture might still enjoy the stops.

What should I bring?
Bring an appetite, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a camera for photos of the stunning scenery.

How much does it cost?
The tour is priced at $207.43 per person, offering a comprehensive taste of Crete’s culinary and scenic riches.

Final Thoughts

This gastronomy and wine tasting tour in Crete’s traditional villages offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, authentic food, and local hospitality. Small group sizes and expert guides ensure a personalized experience that goes beyond the typical sightseeing route.

Whether you’re a foodie wanting to taste genuine Cretan dishes, a culture enthusiast interested in local crafts and traditions, or simply after a leisurely day exploring the countryside, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s a fantastic way to spend a day soaking up the flavors, sights, and stories of Crete—crafted for those who truly want to experience the island beyond the usual tourist spots.

If you’re ready to uncover the heart of Crete’s culinary heritage while enjoying some of the island’s most picturesque views, this tour promises to deliver. Just come hungry and prepared for a memorable, flavorful journey.