Rethymno: Private Winery & Olive Oil Tasting Tour with Lunch

Rethymno: Private Winery & Olive Oil Tasting Tour with Lunch offers a fascinating glimpse into Crete’s renowned food and drink traditions. For about five hours, you’ll explore a local olive oil mill, enjoy a guided tour and tastings at Dourakis Winery, and finish with a scenic village lunch. Guided by friendly experts, this tour is priced at $296 per person and features a small, private group atmosphere, making it feel more like visiting friends than being on a tour bus.

Two aspects really shine. First, the hands-on experience at the olive oil mill—you’ll learn how authentic Cretan virgin olive oil is produced, then taste it fresh from the source. Second, the wine tasting at Dourakis Winery is a highlight, with the chance to sample up to five varieties and learn about local wine-making traditions.

A possible consideration: the tour is limited to Rethymno city and nearby areas, so if you’re staying outside that zone, extra charges may apply for pickup. Also, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues. This experience suits travelers who crave genuine tastes and stories behind Crete’s culinary staples, especially those eager to enjoy a relaxed, personalized day of discovery.

Key Points

• Authentic Crete: Visit real olive oil mills and family-run wineries for genuine experiences.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides make complex topics accessible and engaging.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect scenic vineyards, village views, and natural aromas.
• Tastings & Lunch: Sample fresh olive oil, local wines, and enjoy a traditional Greek meal.
• Value & Comfort: Private group with air-conditioned transport offers a relaxed, personalized feel.
• Limited Pickup Zone: Pickup only available within 12 km of Rethymno city, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point: Olive Oil Production at Kanakis Mill

The tour kicks off at the Kanakis olive oil mill, an authentic spot where you’ll learn the ins and outs of making virgin olive oil—an essential ingredient in Cretan cuisine. The experts walk you through each step, from harvesting to pressing, explaining how their process preserves the oil’s natural qualities. We loved the chance to taste fresh, high-quality olive oil right at the source—a contrast to bottled oils you buy in stores. The guide’s explanations make it clear why Cretan olive oil is highly prized.

During the visit, you’ll also enjoy a traditional Greek coffee, served at the mill, which is a nice touch—offering a moment to relax and soak in the tranquil surroundings. This stop highlights the importance of olive oil in local life and gives you a behind-the-scenes look at its production, beyond what you might find in touristy markets.

The Winery Visit: Dourakis Winery

Next, the journey continues to the Dourakis Winery, one of the region’s best. This private tour of the winery lasts around half an hour, during which you’ll learn about Cretan wine traditions, grape varieties, and how local terroir influences flavor. The guides are passionate and eager to share their knowledge, making this part both educational and enjoyable.

Post-tour, you’re invited to the wine tasting room, where up to five different wines are available. We appreciated the variety—ranging from crisp whites to robust reds—each paired with simple descriptions that deepen your appreciation. Reviewers have raved about the quality and diversity of the wines, with some mentioning it as the best wine experience they’ve had during their trip.

Scenic Village & Lunch

Depending on the day and weather, the tour concludes in either Nipos or Vryses, two picturesque villages offering stunning natural views. Here, you can enjoy a delicious, traditional Greek lunch, with vegetarian options available. The meal is often described as authentic, hearty, and made with local ingredients, providing an excellent end to your culinary journey.

One review highlighted how the lunch at a family-run taverna was a standout, with the added bonus of chatting with local hosts. The scenic village setting makes it easy to unwind and reflect on the day’s discoveries.

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Transportation and Group Size

Transport is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the journey comfortable, especially during warmer months. Because this is a private group, the experience feels more personalized—no large coach tours here. The pickup service, however, is limited to Rethymno city and within 12 km, so travelers staying farther out should consider extra arrangements.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food and wine enthusiasts who appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. It’s also ideal for those who value guided insights, scenic views, and relaxed pacing. The reviews suggest that travelers who enjoy learning about local traditions and tasting quality products find this tour particularly rewarding.

The Value of the Experience

At $296, the tour price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guided tastings, and a traditional meal. When you consider that you’re visiting two different production sites, receiving expert-guided tastings, and enjoying a meal in a scenic village, the value becomes clearer. It’s a comprehensive way to experience Crete’s culinary culture without the stress of planning each visit independently.

While the cost might seem high compared to simpler tastings, the private, guided nature of the tour offers a level of intimacy and storytelling that many travelers cherish. Plus, the opportunity to taste fresh olive oil and a variety of wines in a local setting adds authentic flavor you won’t easily replicate on your own.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who enjoys learning about local food traditions, appreciates small-group experiences, and wants to visit authentic sites rather than commercialized tourist spots, this tour suits you well. It’s ideal for cultural explorers who want a relaxed, educational day with plenty of tasting opportunities.

However, it may not be suitable for pregnant travelers or those with mobility issues due to the nature of some stops and walking involved. The limited pickup zone is another consideration; travelers outside Rethymno should be prepared for extra arrangements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available everywhere?
Pickup is only included within Rethymno city and a maximum of 12 km beyond. If staying further out, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about five hours, including travel, tours, tastings, and lunch. Check availability for specific start times.

What languages are spoken by guides?
Guides speak English, French, and Greek, ensuring clear communication regardless of your language preference.

Can vegetarians participate?
Yes, vegetarian options are included in the traditional Greek lunch, making the experience accessible for different dietary needs.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour isn’t explicitly marked for children, and it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues. It’s best suited for adults interested in food and wine.

How many people are in each group?
This is a private group experience, which means you’ll enjoy a more intimate setting with personalized attention from your guide.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour value for money?
Given the guided visits, tastings, lunch, and transportation, most travelers find it well worth the price, especially considering the personalized touch.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of education, scenery, and authentic flavor. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a meaningful, relaxed way to connect with Crete’s culinary roots. The knowledgeable guides, high-quality tastings, and scenic village setting combine to make this a memorable experience, ideal for those who genuinely want to understand and taste the island’s best. Just remember, if you’re staying outside Rethymno or need special accommodations, plan ahead, and enjoy an authentic slice of Crete.

You can check availability for your dates here: