Wine & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch – Semi Private Safari Tour

Crete’s rugged landscapes hide some of the island’s best-kept secrets. On this Wine & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch, you’ll explore a handful of local highlights—from ancient olive trees to scenic gorges—without the crowds. For around $169 per person, you get a 7 to 8-hour intimate adventure, limited to just six travelers, which ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Your guide, often praised as knowledgeable and friendly, takes you off-road through Crete’s less-traveled paths, offering a genuine taste of the island’s rich local produce.

What we love about this tour is the combination of authentic tasting experiences and stunning scenery. You’ll sample organic extra virgin olive oil at Anoskeli Winery Olive Mill and taste five different wines, each paired with local snacks. The chance to touch a 3,000-year-old olive tree and learn about olive oil’s history is a real highlight. Plus, the lunch in a mountain restaurant with panoramic views of the gorge is the perfect way to end the day.

A potential consideration? The rough roads and off-road driving might be less comfortable for travelers prone to motion sickness. But for those who enjoy scenic drives and a bit of adventure, it’s a small price to pay for the memorable views and intimate experience.

This tour is ideal for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Crete beyond its beaches. If you’re looking for a deep dive into local products, scenic vistas, and a small-group vibe, this experience delivers.

Key Points

• Authentic Tasting Experiences: Olive oil and wine tastings expertly guided by knowledgeable hosts.
• Scenic Off-Road Adventure: Small-group 4WD journey into Crete’s less accessible landscapes.
• Cultural Highlights: Touching historic olive trees and visiting ancient sites like Saint John the Hermit cave.
• Stunning Lunch Setting: Mountain restaurant with breathtaking views and delicious local dishes.
• Personalized Small Group: Just 6 travelers maximum, ensuring a relaxed, intimate experience.
• All-Inclusive Value: Tastings, lunch, drinks, water, and transportation included for one transparent price.

An In-Depth Look at the Crete Safari Tour

In the first moments of the tour, your group is picked up from your Chania accommodation, setting the tone for what’s to come—an adventure that balances scenic beauty, cultural interest, and culinary delights. The small group size—no more than six—means you’ll enjoy a personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and take photos without feeling rushed.

Visiting Saint John the Hermit Cave and Belvedere

The day begins with a visit to Saint John the Hermit’s cave, an intriguing spot where legend and nature converge. The cave has a certain mystique, and the view from the nearby belvedere offers a sweeping panorama of Crete’s rugged terrain. Expect about 30 minutes here, with admission included, making it a brisk but worthwhile stop. Reviewers consistently praise this as a charming start—“Enjoyed the view and the tranquility of the site,” one said.

Touching History at the Olive Tree Museum of Vouves

Next, you’ll visit the Olive Tree Museum of Vouves, home to what’s believed to be the world’s oldest olive tree, still producing olives after over 3,000 years. Standing beneath this giant, you can grasp the incredible history of olive cultivation in Crete. The visit lasts around an hour and ten minutes, including a chance to sip coffee on a traditional Cretan farm. Authenticity shines here—“Touching the ancient olive tree was a highlight,” a guest shared. This stop blends history, agriculture, and culture seamlessly.

Tasting at Anoskeli Winery Olive Mill

The heart of the tour rests at Anoskeli Winery Olive Mill, where you get to taste organic extra virgin olive oil. The guide, often a professional sommelier, helps explain the nuances of each product. Then, it’s on to the wine tastings, sampling five local labels accompanied by typical Cretan snacks. Expect about an hour and forty minutes here. Reviewers rave about the “delicious olive oil and wines” and the engaging explanations—they say it feels like learning from friends rather than a formal tasting. This is where the tour’s value really shines, combining education with flavorful indulgence.

Scenic Drive through Chania’s Countryside and Lunch with a View

After the tasting, your 4WD vehicle takes you on a scenic journey through the white mountains and gorges—depending on the day, you might see Topolia or Samaria Gorge—both breathtaking. The roads are rough, but the vehicles are comfortable and suited for this kind of terrain. The drive lasts nearly five hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery, spot wild goats, and snap photos.

The highlight is lunch at a mountain restaurant, offering traditional Cretan dishes with a modern twist. Guests commonly mention the “breathtaking views and delicious food”—it’s a perfect setting for a leisurely meal. The lunch includes a round of drinks, dessert, and plenty of local flavor, making it superb value considering the quality and authenticity.

Authenticity, Quality, and Value

This tour isn’t about flashy gimmicks; it’s a genuine look at Crete’s food and landscapes. The small group format allows guides to tailor the experience, and reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Nickolas, Stavros, and Vassilis. Many mention that the guides share fascinating stories and insights, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

The price includes all tastings, lunch, transportation, and a small group, which makes it straightforward and transparent. You won’t face hidden costs or crowded restaurants—just a relaxed, immersive day. Comparing the cost to the quality, it’s clear this offers excellent value for travelers wanting more than just a quick sightseeing drive. You’re getting delicious local products, scenic landscapes, and personal attention.

What Some Might Consider

The rough roads and off-road driving are part of the charm but might be less comfortable for those prone to motion sickness. Plus, the tour operates rain or shine, so dressing smart casual and bringing appropriate gear is wise. Vegetarian options are available if you specify in advance, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, including children accompanied by adults.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a food and wine lover eager to taste authentic Cretan products, this is perfect. The small group creates a cozy atmosphere, making it ideal for travelers who prefer intimate experiences over large tours. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the scenic drives and visits to ancient sites, while culture buffs will value the stories and history shared along the way. It’s suitable for travelers of most ages, with the only practical consideration being the rough roads and potentially long hours in a vehicle.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including all stops, tastings, and lunch.

Is pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered from addresses within 5 km east to 25 km west of Chania, making it convenient for many travelers.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is recommended. Dress comfortably for the outdoor stops and consider bringing a hat, sunscreen, or rain gear depending on weather.

Can I request vegetarian options?
Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request if advised when booking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The rough roads and outdoor activities may not be ideal for very young children.

How many people are in each group?
Up to 6 travelers per guide and vehicle, which keeps the experience intimate and personalized.

What is included in the price?
Tastings (olive oil and wines), lunch with drinks, water, coffee or orange juice, transportation, and liability insurance.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Wine & Olive Oil Safari Tour offers a superb balance of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and culinary delights. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to explore Crete’s less touristy side, taste authentic local products, and learn from friendly guides. The small-group setting guarantees personal attention, making it feel more like a day out with friends than a formal tour.

Travelers who value quality over quantity, enjoy scenic drives, and love pairing food with stories will find this experience rewarding. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who want to see the countryside, learn about olive oil and wine production, and enjoy a delicious meal in a stunning mountain setting.

If soaking in Crete’s natural and culinary treasures sounds appealing, this tour is a smart pick. Just be prepared for some bumpy roads and long vistas — this is a true taste of the island’s authentic spirit.

Disclaimer: All information is based on the provided tour details and reviews. Prices, itineraries, and policies are subject to change, so always double-check with the provider before booking.