Winery Tour and Kourna’s Lake from Rethymno

A delightful half-day adventure combining nature and wine in Crete

This Winery Tour and Kournas Lake from Rethymno is a wonderfully balanced experience for travelers looking to see two of Crete’s highlights without committing to a full day. Priced at around $439.59 per person, the roughly five-hour trip takes you from the bustling streets of Rethymno to the tranquil waters of Lake Kournas, the island’s only freshwater lake, and then to a charming local winery.

What we love most about this tour is how it mixes active, fun moments—like pedaling a boat around the lake—with relaxing wine tastings and a delicious light lunch. It’s a great way to get a taste of Crete’s natural beauty and the local wine scene in one go. Plus, with small-group size, you’ll likely enjoy the guide’s attention and more personalized experience.

One potential drawback is that admission to Lake Kournas isn’t included in the price, so you’ll need to budget a little extra for that. Also, if you’re not keen on guided tours or small-group settings, this might feel a bit structured.

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, wine enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a leisurely yet engaging half-day escape that captures a bit of Crete’s authentic charm. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a mix of outdoor activity, culture, and relaxed indulgence.

Key Points

• Unique combination of natural scenery and local wine tasting in one tour
• Pedal boat ride around Lake Kournas offers a hands-on fun experience
• Small-group setting provides a more intimate and flexible experience
• Includes a light lunch paired with five wine tastings, emphasizing quality and local flavors
• Flexible pick-up options make joining the tour straightforward
• Cost includes transportation and wine tastings but not lake admission

Exploring Crete’s Hidden Gems: Kournas Lake and a Local Winery

When visiting Rethymno, many travelers stick to the beaches and historic sites. But for those wanting a taste of Crete’s tranquility and genuine local flavor, this tour offers a charming escape. It’s not just about ticking boxes; it’s about experiencing the island’s natural beauty and its wine culture in a relaxed, engaging way.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins with a pickup around 10:00 am. From there, we’re driven to Lake Kournas, the only freshwater lake on the island, famed for its calm, turquoise waters and lush surroundings. As you arrive, the first highlight is the opportunity to pedal a boat across the lake’s gentle surface. This activity lasts about two hours, and it’s a simple, enjoyable way to connect with Crete’s landscape.

While the admission ticket to the lake isn’t included, you’ll be treated to coffee or tea upon arrival, setting a relaxed tone for the morning. The pedal boat ride is a highlight for many, with travelers noting the joy of being on the water and the scenic beauty surrounding you. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the guide organized the boat ride—simple but fun, and a great chance to enjoy the peaceful lake.”

After working up an appetite, the group heads to a local winery. Here, the emphasis is on personalized attention—you’ll explore the courtyard, botanical gardens, and production areas, gaining insight into the winemaking process. The highlight is pairing a light lunch with five wine tastings, showcasing some very good local wines. The guide likely shares stories about each wine, making the tasting feel both educational and fun.

The experience wraps up with a relaxed return to Rethymno, feeling refreshed and enriched. The total duration of approximately five hours means you have enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What makes this tour special?

The pedal boat experience at Lake Kournas is genuinely fun and offers a hands-on way to enjoy the scenery. It’s a simple activity, but for many, it creates a memorable moment of connection with the island’s natural landscape.

The wine tasting at the local winery is a highlight for its authenticity and quality. The tour’s emphasis on pairing a light lunch with five tastings ensures you get a genuine taste of Crete’s wine prowess, which is often overlooked by travelers focused only on beaches or archaeological sites.

Authentic and Personalized Experience

One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is the guide’s friendliness and knowledge. For example, a guest named Marita_T said, “Aggeliki Kourou picked us up on time and was charming, friendly, and informative, making us feel safe and welcomed.” Having a local guide who speaks excellent English and who can share insights about the area adds depth to the experience.

The small group format—limited to 15 travelers—ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd. It allows for more interaction, questions, and a less hurried pace. This intimacy is valuable when exploring authentic spots like a family-run winery or a peaceful lake.

Practical considerations

While most travelers will find this tour accessible, keep in mind that extra charges may apply if you’re staying outside the designated pickup zone, as some hotels or villas might incur additional fees for transfer. The tour can also accommodate most fitness levels, since pedaling a pedal boat is straightforward, and the walking involved is minimal.

Why Choose This Tour?

This tour is perfect if you’re after a combination of nature, local culture, and good wine without tying up your whole day. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, personal interaction, and authentic experiences.

It offers great value, considering the inclusion of transportation, a boat ride, wine tastings, and a light lunch. While the lake admission isn’t included, it’s a small extra, and many find the overall cost justified by the quality of the activities and the guide’s attentiveness.

For families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see Crete’s quieter side, this tour strikes a good balance. It’s also a great option if you’re not a fan of large, bus-style excursions and prefer a more intimate, off-the-beaten-path feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from Rethymno is offered, making it easy to join. Additional charges may apply if you’re outside the standard pick-up area.

How long is the tour?
Approximately five hours, with time split between Lake Kournas and the winery visit.

What activities are involved?
A pedal boat ride around Lake Kournas, a walk through the winery’s gardens and production area, and wine tastings paired with a light lunch.

Do I need to buy a lake admission ticket?
No, the admission to Lake Kournas is not included and must be paid separately if you choose to enter.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Most travelers can participate, and the activity is straightforward. Pedaling a boat and wine tasting are generally family-friendly, but check with the provider for age restrictions.

What’s included in the price?
Transport, coffee or tea, boat ride, a light lunch, and five wine tastings.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, admission to Lake Kournas is not included and will be an additional charge if you wish to enter the lake area.

How personalized is the experience?
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the guide can offer a more tailored experience and answer questions in depth.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual clothing suitable for outdoor activities, and perhaps a hat and sunscreen for sunny days.

To sum it up, this Winery Tour and Kournas Lake experience from Rethymno offers a charming blend of outdoor fun, cultural insight, and local flavor. It’s especially appealing for those wanting a taste of Crete’s peaceful countryside, authentic wine, and natural beauty—all in a half-day. If you’re after a leisurely yet engaging excursion that’s rich in authentic experiences and small-group charm, this tour deserves a spot on your list.