Skalani is a charming village in Crete that offers more than just scenic views—it’s a hub for authentic local experiences and well-curated tours. Its proximity to Heraklion and the lush olive groves makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Cretan culture through food, history, and nature. We particularly like the Olive Farm Tour with Tasting of Local Delicacies for its hands-on approach and genuine insight into the island’s olive oil tradition, as well as the Premium Crete Olive Oil Tasting, Wine, Raki, and Cretan Food for a more immersive, private experience. These tours showcase the region’s rich agricultural heritage and its delicious produce, providing memorable tastes and stories along the way. For a comprehensive look at Crete’s top sights, including ancient sites and natural wonders, the Learn all about Crete in one Tour | Private Guided Tour offers a full-day, personalized experience that covers the island’s iconic landmarks.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we review three of the top tours in Skalani, each offering a different way to experience Crete’s culture and scenery. Whether you prefer learning about olive oil at a working farm, sampling local flavors on a private tour, or exploring Crete’s history and landscapes in one day, you’ll find options suited to your interests and schedule. For more details, check out the experiences at Heraklion: Olive Farm Tour with Tasting of Local Delicacies, Premium Crete Olive Oil Tasting, Wine, Raki, and Cretan Food, and Learn all about Crete in one Tour | Private Guided Tour.
1. Heraklion: Olive Farm Tour with Tasting of Local Delicacies
This olive farm tour in Skalani offers a flavorful peek into Greece’s most iconic ingredient—olive oil. The tour explores both ancient olive groves and a modern olive mill, where you’ll see the full extraction process firsthand. It’s a wonderful opportunity to understand the craftsmanship behind award-winning oils and how Cretan farmers maintain sustainable practices. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a tasting of freshly pressed olive oils paired with local cheeses, olives, and other delicacies, making this a true culinary treat. The tour is particularly praised for its friendly, knowledgeable guides who share stories about local heritage and farming secrets, making it more than just a tasting—it’s an educational journey.
The itinerary includes a scenic drive through the countryside, a guided walk through ancient groves, and plenty of time for photos and shopping. With reviews averaging 4.9/5 from 268 travelers, this tour strikes a great balance between fun, learning, and delicious sampling. It’s perfect for those who want to get their hands dirty in the olive fields and leave with a deeper appreciation of Cretan agriculture.
Bottom Line: This tour delivers authentic insight into olive oil production in a relaxed setting, making it ideal for food lovers and curious travelers alike.
2. Premium Crete Olive Oil Tasting, Wine, Raki and Cretan Food!
For around $158, this private, full-day experience offers much more than just olive oil. It’s a comprehensive immersion into Crete’s culinary traditions, combining olive oil tasting, wine and raki distillation, and sampling local dishes, all led by enthusiastic local guides. Starting with a hotel pickup, the tour moves through Skalani to visit a working farm where you’ll learn about traditional production methods. You’ll get to taste freshly pressed oils and learn about their health benefits. The experience continues with a visit to a nearby winery for a guided tour and wine tasting, followed by a trip to a traditional village where you can taste spirits, local snacks, and explore authentic life in Crete.
What sets this tour apart is its intimate, non-touristy vibe, with travelers praising the friendly guides and excellent food. It’s suited for those wanting a deeper connection with Crete’s gastronomic culture and who enjoy a relaxed, personalized experience. The tour also includes sightseeing in a local village, making it rich in authentic moments.
Bottom Line: This private tour is perfect for foodies and wine lovers who want a thorough, personalized experience of Crete’s flavors and traditions without the crowds.
3. Learn all about Crete in one Tour | Private Guided Tour
Looking for a comprehensive day out? This full-day private tour covers a broad swath of Crete’s highlights, tailored to your interests. It includes visits to Zeus Cave, Knossos Palace, an olive mill, and a winery, topped off with a traditional lunch in Archanes Village. The experience is led by expert local drivers with extensive knowledge, ensuring you get insightful commentary at each stop.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility and scope. You can learn about ancient Minoan civilization at Knossos, marvel at the mythic Zeus Cave, and enjoy tasting local wines and olive oils. The traditional lunch in Archanes is a highlight, giving a real taste of village life and Cretan hospitality.
This tour is best for travelers with a full day to spare who want to see the highlights of Crete in one go—especially history buffs and those wanting a curated, all-encompassing experience. The $248 price reflects the extensive itinerary and personalized service, making it a good value for those looking for an in-depth exploration.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want a curated, flexible introduction to Crete’s ancient sites, culinary delights, and scenic villages in one trip.
$248 per person
How to Choose
Deciding between these tours depends on your interests and schedule. If you’re a food lover who wants an authentic olive oil experience, the Olive Farm Tour with Local Delicacies offers a relaxed, educational taste of local agriculture. For a more personalized, all-inclusive culinary adventure, the Premium Crete Olive Oil Tasting is perfect, especially if you value private guiding and a varied itinerary. Meanwhile, if you prefer a comprehensive day covering historical sites, landscapes, and local culture, the Learn all about Crete in one Tour provides a broad, flexible overview.
Consider your budget, time available, and specific interests. For example, budget travelers might prioritize the olive farm tour, while history enthusiasts may lean towards the full-day exploration. Booking early is advised during peak season, especially for private tours, to secure preferred times.
To sum it up, Skalani and its surrounding area offer a variety of engaging tours suited for different tastes. Whether you’re interested in tasting fresh olive oils, exploring Crete’s archaeological sites, or enjoying a private culinary experience, there’s a perfect match waiting. For a laid-back, authentic taste of Crete’s olive heritage, the Heraklion Olive Farm Tour is ideal. If you want a personalized, all-in-one day of eating and drinking, choose the Premium Crete experience. And for those eager to see the island’s top sights in one go, the full-day private tour delivers a rundown. Whatever your choice, booking ahead will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable Crete adventures.