Crete Wine and Olive Oil Tour: An Authentic Taste of the Island’s Heritage
Imagine rolling through traditional Cretan villages, surrounded by lush vineyards and ancient olive trees, all while tasting some of the finest local products. For just around $139, you and your travel companions can spend about six hours discovering Crete’s treasured culinary symbols—wine and olive oil—on a tour from Chania. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience takes you to two family-run wineries and one of the world’s oldest olive trees, with plenty of tastings along the way.
What we really love about this tour is how it combines rich local history with delicious flavors, all in a relaxed, small-group setting that feels intimate and genuine. Plus, the scenic drive through the mountains of Kissamos and the chance to connect with passionate winemakers make it more than just a tasting session—it’s a window into Crete’s soul.
A small potential drawback is the limited time at each location—if you’re eager to see extensive vineyards or production facilities, this might feel a bit brief. However, for most travelers looking for a balanced, taste-focused day, the tour hits the sweet spot. It suits those who enjoy learning about local traditions, trying regional wines and oils, and appreciate a friendly, guided experience that’s well-paced without feeling rushed.
Who should consider this tour? If you’re a wine lover, a food enthusiast, or simply curious about Crete’s agricultural heritage, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s especially ideal if you prefer small-group adventures with personalized attention and insightful guides. Solo travelers, couples, and small groups will all feel welcomed and engaged.
Key Points
- Authentic Crete Experience: Visit two family-owned wineries and one of the world’s oldest olive trees.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable hosts and guides bring the history and craft of wine and olive oil to life.
- Tastings & Insights: Sample award-winning wines and extra virgin olive oils, learning how they’re made.
- Scenic Journey: Travel through picturesque villages and mountains, with plenty of beautiful views.
- Balanced Itinerary: About 6 hours of engaging activities, including a light meal and bottled water.
- Value for Money: For the price, you get a comprehensive, authentic experience backed by numerous positive reviews.
Exploring the Crete Wine and Olive Oil Tour in Depth
Planning more time in Chania? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting the Day: Convenient Pickups and Scenic Drive
Your adventure begins early, with hotel pickups in Chania for a comfortable trip to the countryside. If you’re staying in places with limited vehicle access, like Old Town or the Venetian Harbor, pre-arranged meeting points make it easy to join up. The tour is operated by GS TOURS CHANIA LTD and offers an air-conditioned minibus or van, making the journey both relaxing and enjoyable.
As you leave the city behind, your guide will point out local sights and share tidbits about Cretan life. We loved the way the scenery unfolded—small villages with stone houses, narrow roads winding through mountains, and the occasional glimpse of the sea. These drives aren’t just transportation—they set the mood, immersing you in the landscape that shapes Crete’s wine and olive traditions.
First Stop: Anoskeli Winery and Olive Mill
About a 30-minute drive from Chania, Anoskeli is your first destination. This family-run winery and olive mill is situated in a charming village and offers a chance to see Crete’s agricultural pride firsthand. The setting is peaceful, with vineyards sprawling across gentle hills and olive trees dotting the landscape.
Here, you’ll enjoy tastings of regional wines—awarded and well-regarded—and sample high-quality olive oils, including extra virgin varieties. The guides at Anoskeli take their craft seriously, explaining the process from grape to glass and olive to bottle. As one guest happily put it, “the olive oil and wine were superb,” and the experience feels authentic, not commercialized.
What makes this stop special is the opportunity to learn about olive oil production and regional winemaking directly from the producers. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the vineyards and olive groves, and, if fortunate, see the olive oil pressing process. The relaxed atmosphere encourages questions and tasting at your own pace.
Tip: Many reviews mention how much they appreciated the opportunity to taste different oils and wines, with some saying the guides were very informative and friendly. It’s a chance to learn about the region’s terroir and traditional methods.
The Monumental Olive Tree of Vouves
Next, the tour takes you to see one of the oldest olive trees in the world—the Monumental Olive Tree of Vouves. This ancient giant is estimated to be over 3,000 years old, and its gnarled branches tell stories of centuries past. Standing beneath it, you’ll feel a sense of connection to history, as this tree has witnessed countless generations of Cretans.
Visiting Vouves is a highlight for many, not just because of the tree’s age but also because of what it symbolizes—a living testament to the enduring importance of olive cultivation on Crete. The site is quite accessible, and the view from the nearby village offers a glimpse into the traditional olive-growing landscape.
Guests often comment on how brief the visit is—about 20 minutes—but that’s enough to appreciate its significance. Some wish for a more detailed explanation of its history, but most enjoy just soaking in the atmosphere.
Final Stop: Manousakis Winery in Vatolakkos
The last part of your tour takes you to the family-run Manousakis Winery, located in the village of Vatolakkos. This winery has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and the hosts clearly love sharing their craft. Here, you’ll sample more wines—about 8 different varieties—accompanied by olive oils and regional snacks.
One guest described it as “a fabulous tour,” praising the “knowledgeable” hosts and the quality of the tastings. The guided visit lasts around an hour and a half, giving you time to stroll through the vineyards, ask questions, and really savor the flavors. The guides are often described as friendly, humorous, and passionate about their products, which enhances the experience considerably.
The light meal included at the end is a nice touch, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s tastings. Many reviews mention leaving with bottles of olive oil or wine, making it a perfect souvenir or gift.
What Sets This Tour Apart?
While the itinerary is straightforward, what makes this experience stand out is the genuine passion of the guides and hosts, and the focus on family-run establishments. These are places that produce with love and tradition, not mass production.
The small group size (maximum 20 travelers) ensures personalized attention, and many reviewers note the friendly, inclusive atmosphere. Whether you’re a wine novice or connoisseur, the guides’ expertise makes the tastings approachable and educational.
On top of that, the scenic drive through mountains and villages adds a layer of charm — it’s not just about tasting but also about experiencing the landscape and lifestyle of rural Crete.
Value for Money
At $139, this tour offers an all-day immersion into Crete’s wine and olive oil culture, with multiple tastings, expert guides, transportation, and a light meal included. Considering the quality of the experiences and the intimate setting, it’s a solid value. Guests consistently praise the authenticity and depth of knowledge, which sometimes is absent in larger, more commercial tours.
Practical Considerations
The tour begins at 8:45 am, which is good for avoiding the midday heat, and concludes back in Chania around mid-afternoon. It’s suitable for most travelers—children over 18 are welcome but not allowed to taste wine, though juice options are available.
It’s worth noting that weather can influence the program slightly, as the company reserves the right to adapt when necessary. Advanced booking is recommended, especially since many travelers plan this experience about 40 days ahead, and cancellation policies are flexible up to 24 hours beforehand.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for anyone curious about Crete’s culinary traditions, lovers of regional wines and olive oils, or those seeking a relaxed, immersive day outside the city. It’s also great for solo travelers wanting a welcoming environment, or couples looking for a romantic yet educational outing. If you appreciate small-group settings and expert guides, you’ll feel right at home.
FAQs
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes two-way transfers from hotels in Chania and along the coast to Maleme, making it convenient to join without extra hassle.
How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately six hours, starting at 8:45 am and returning mid-afternoon, allowing plenty of time at each stop.
What is the group size?
A maximum of 20 travelers keeps the experience intimate and allows for personalized attention from guides.
Are children allowed?
Children can join but must be over 18 to participate in wine tastings. Non-drinkers are offered juice or water.
What’s included in the price?
All taxes, fees, tastings of wine and olive oil, a light meal, bottled water, and the services of a knowledgeable guide.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Are the wineries open on the day of my visit?
Yes, the stops are scheduled at active wineries and olive mills, but occasional closures can happen. The tour operator reserves the right to make minor adjustments.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor exposure, plus sunscreen and hat if sunny.
Will I see vineyards and production facilities?
Yes, at Anoskeli and Manousakis, you’ll explore vineyards and see some production processes. However, at Vouves, the focus is on the ancient olive tree.
Is this tour suitable for a solo traveler?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention feeling welcome and included, with no feeling of being left out.
Final Thoughts
The Crete Wine and Olive Oil Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into the island’s culinary heritage. You’ll love the chance to taste award-winning wines and superb olive oils, and to learn directly from passionate local producers. The scenic drives and intimate group setting make it both relaxing and enriching, perfect for those who want to savor Crete beyond just the beaches.
Most travelers will find excellent value here—especially those eager to deepen their understanding of regional traditions while enjoying a fun, flavorful day. It’s a journey that balances education, taste, and beautiful scenery, making it a worthwhile addition to any Crete itinerary.
Whether you’re a serious oenophile or simply curious about the island’s tastes, this tour provides a genuine, memorable experience. It’s a fantastic way to connect with Crete’s countryside, its history, and its heart—one glass and one drop of oil at a time.