Crete: Olive Oil, Soap, Wine, Raki - Flavorful Culinary Journey
Recommended by 95% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Heraklion, Greece
- 6 hours (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Group discounts
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Many visitors to Crete stick to the coast and miss out on its stunning mountains and vineyards. Explore the island's hidden heartlands on this immersive culinary tour. Visit an olive mill to learn the ancient craft of olive oil extraction and take a tour of a winery and raki distillery complete with tasting, so you'll leave feeling like a pro. Plus, enjoy a meal of local specialities for an authentic Cretan dining experience.
- See how olive oil is produced—something many travelers to Crete miss out on
- Learn about Cretan wine and raki production so you'll leave feeling like a pro
- Dine at a hidden gem only the locals know about
- Get to know like-minded travelers on this small-group tour
What's Included
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- LunchTraditional Light Lunch at a local tavern in Peza Village
- Olive Mill Visit with Tour and Olive Oil Tasting
- Tasting of 1 Raki aged in a Barrel
- Wine Tasting of 3 indigenous varieties
- Visit a Micro-Winery & Raki Distillery
- Visiting a Family Run Soap making workshop (Participate in Soap Making Demonstration)
- Personal Expenses
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Pickup details
We appreciate your booking with us and want to ensure a seamless experience for you. To provide you with the exact pick-up time, we will reach out to you either through text message or email. It's important to double-check the information you provided during the booking to ensure accuracy.
What To Expect
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Most travelers can participate
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Adria_S
Pick up was on time and driver excellent. Olive oil farm tour was good, tasing was good as well. Plenty of bread to dip into olive oil and olive oil was delicious. Had tomatos and his olives to eat as well. Also explained how he started growing Dragon fruit but never tasted any fresh Dragon fruit. After the tour owner put on a video in an effort to explain more. That was just ok and through the video he put out the olive oil and accompanying food. Didn’t spend much more time with us after the video came on. There were 8 of us. Overall it was a very good experience but not exceptional.
Next was the winery tour and that was exceptional. Toured the winery, she was engaging and funny and extremely knowledgeable about her wines. Learned a lot about their wines and got to taste a few. Not much food with the wine tasting, only 2 pieces of cheese per person and a few bread sticks. Would have liked more cheese to have with wine as we were tasting. Wine was very good as well as her explanation of each wine.
Next was lunch. That was a great time with the 6 other attendees. The food was all Greek vegetarian and absolutely delicious and plentiful. So much food we couldn’t finish it all. Basic red and white wine was served with lunch. The spinach pie was amazing. Tzatziki delicious. I typically do not like stuffed grape leaves but these were delicious as well. The other dishes were tasty and enjoyed by us all. It was a wonderful afternoon overall and all attendees got along well and enjoyed it. I would definitely recommend this.
Reviews
4.8
based on 123 reviews
William_M, Mar 2026
We had an incredible experience exploring Heraklion with Yanni & Aggeliki. From start to finish, they brought a perfect blend of knowledge, warmth, and genuine care that made the entire day unforgettable.
Their deep understanding of the history, culture, and hidden gems of the area truly elevated the experience—they didn’t just guide us, they brought each place to life with stories and insights we never would have discovered on our own.
What stood out most was how kind, attentive, and accommodating they were. They made sure every detail was taken care of and tailored the experience so our whole family could fully enjoy it at our own pace. You can tell they are passionate about what they do and truly care about creating meaningful moments for their guests.
If you’re visiting Heraklion and want a tour that feels personal, engaging, and memorable, we can’t recommend Yanni & Aggeliki enough.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you for your generous words — truly appreciated.
What you describe is exactly how things should be done here, the old Cretan way: not rushed, not staged, and never superficial. A place like Heraklion doesn’t reveal itself to those who skim the surface; it opens slowly, through stories, people, and the small details most pass by without noticing. We are glad you allowed us the time and trust to show it to you properly.
Hosting families like yours is the real reward of this work. When the day flows naturally, without pressure, and everyone finds their rhythm—that’s when a tour becomes something more than just a schedule. It becomes a memory that stays. Until we meet again, may your travels always lead you to places that are felt, not just seen.
Amber_P, Mar 2026
What a wonderful way to see how they use everything leftover from making their products. Great time making new friends and memories surrounded with the history of Crete.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you for your thoughtful review. Crete has always been a place where nothing goes to waste—our grandparents learned long ago that every olive, every grape, every drop had value. We’re very glad you enjoyed discovering how local producers still follow that same philosophy today, turning what might seem like “leftovers” into something useful, honest, and full of character.
It’s also great to hear that the day brought new friendships and good memories along the way. That’s really the heart of these experiences: a table, a few stories, a shared glass, and suddenly strangers feel a bit more like old companions. Crete has a way of doing that. Thank you again for joining us, and we hope our island paths cross again someday.
Stacey_B, Oct 2025
It was excellent! We spent time with local businesses owners and experts in their craft of soap making, olive oil production, and wine making. It was authentic and so comfortable. Everyone feed us local wonderful foods.
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled to hear you enjoyed meeting the local artisans and discovering the heart of Crete through their crafts. Each stop — from soap making to olive oil and wine — is a glimpse into traditions that have been passed down for generations, and it warms our hearts to know you felt that authenticity.
And of course, no Cretan experience is complete without a table full of local flavors — feeding guests is our way of saying *“you’re part of the family now.”* We hope to welcome you back soon for even more stories, smiles, and Cretan hospitality.
Michael_K, Oct 2025
Long day, but very informative from olive oil soaps to making olive oil and wine and raki tasting. Great traditional Greek lunch to wrap it all up
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! 🌿 It truly sounds like you embraced the full Cretan day — from learning the old crafts of soap and olive oil making, to tasting the island’s proudest flavors of wine and raki. Yes, it’s a long day, but as we say here, *good things take time — and the best memories take a whole day to create.*
We’re so glad you enjoyed the traditional lunch — it’s the perfect way to end a journey through Crete’s heart and soul. We’ll be waiting to welcome you again, perhaps next time with even more flavors and stories to uncover. 🍷🥂
Claire_H, Oct 2025
We had a fantastic day touring with Yanni as our driver! Every stop brought a new surprise and more fun experiences. We also enjoyed having the time to get to know the other travelers on the tour. I would highly recommend this tour!
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled to hear you had such a fantastic day with Yanni — he has a real gift for turning a simple drive into an unforgettable journey, full of laughter and genuine connection.
It’s great that you also enjoyed the group dynamic — sometimes the conversations and laughs shared with fellow travelers are just as memorable as the stops themselves. Ευχαριστούμε πολύ for the recommendation — we’d love to have you back anytime for more Cretan surprises!
MJ_G, Oct 2025
Such a fun tour of small family owned businesses. Very informative and a small group setting is always more fun. Learned a lot about olive oil production, Raki production and wines. Also a great visit to a pottery place as well
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled to hear you enjoyed the tour and appreciated the charm of the small, family-run businesses — they really are the heart of Crete. The smaller group setting definitely makes it easier to connect, ask questions, and soak up those little details you don’t get in big crowds.
It sounds like you got a real taste of local life — from olive oil and raki to wine and handmade pottery. Ευχαριστούμε πολύ for joining us, and we’d love to welcome you back anytime for more stories, flavors, and warm Cretan hospitality!
Lisa_B, Oct 2025
Operator cancelled last minute. Bummer. Instead, rented bikes and went around town ourselves. Perfect day
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Hello there,
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. However, we’d like to clarify the situation for future guests who may read your comment. You had booked this tour while arriving to Agios Nikolaos by cruise ship, but unfortunately, your booking did not include any pick-up details, as the port of arrival was not listed in your reservation. The evening before your tour, we contacted you directly to confirm the logistics and quickly realized that your cruise ship was docking in an area outside of our operating zone.
After carefully checking your cruise schedule, we explained that if you attempted to join the tour, there was a 90% chance you wouldn’t make it back to your ship on time — something we would never risk with any of our guests. Out of professionalism and fairness, we immediately canceled your booking and processed a **full refund**, even though the error came from the wrong destination being selected during booking. A less professional company could have simply kept the booking and denied a refund, but we believe doing what’s right always comes first.
Maxine_F, Oct 2025
Lovely tour! Our guide was wonderful! The tour included local wine and Raki tasting in a very intimate setting. The olive oil tour was informative and the oil was delicious. We enjoyed the pottery workshop, very skilled artisans. But the lunch was the highlight of the tour. The food was delicious and made you feel like someone’s YaYa had welcomed you into their kitchen for a home cooked meal. Worth every penny!
Response from Host, Oct 2025
What a beautiful way to describe your experience — thank you! We're so happy to hear the tour hit all the right notes, from the warm and intimate tastings to the hands-on pottery visit. And yes, those artisans pour generations of skill into their craft — it's like watching tradition take shape right in front of you.
But oh, that lunch… we couldn’t agree more. When it feels like a Cretan *YaYa* cooked just for you, you know you're not just on a tour — you're part of the family for the day. Ευχαριστούμε από καρδιάς — and we’d love to welcome you back for seconds anytime!
Elizabeth_K, Sep 2025
Great itinerary, engaging local farmer & winery family businesses, excellent lunch, reliable transportation and hotel pick up was a real bonus. We also felt the tour was a good value. We would definitely recommend to others.
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thank you so much for the wonderful review! We’re especially happy to hear that the itinerary, local producers, and that hearty Cretan lunch all left a lasting impression — it’s those family-run farms and wineries that really bring the soul of Crete to life.
Glad to know the pick-up and transport added that extra layer of ease — we believe a good tour should feel effortless from start to finish. Ευχαριστούμε πολύ for recommending us, and we’d be honored to host you again anytime you return to the island!
Jon_O, Sep 2025
Overall, I'd rate this as an adequate experience. But not essential. We're wine lovers, but the wine they served wasn't chilled and it was way too hot to drink. So, we didn't really enjoy the wine. However, the raki mixed with honey plus the wine liquor were quite nice.
The soap making was suprisingly interesting.
The olive oil place was just okay.
The included lunch was merely adequate -- the restaurant wasn't very remarkable, and we didn't get to spend time in what looked like a charming village.
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thank you for your honest and balanced feedback — we truly appreciate it. Not every experience hits the mark for everyone, and your perspective helps us improve. Serving unchilled wine in the Cretan heat is definitely a miss, especially for guests who come with a genuine appreciation for it — we completely understand how that would impact the enjoyment.
We’re glad the soap-making surprised you in a good way, and that the raki and liqueur brought a little spark to the day. As for the lunch and village time — we hear you. We’ll revisit the pacing and venue choices to ensure guests get more of that charming, authentic vibe we aim for. Ευχαριστούμε πολύ for joining us and for speaking candidly — it's the only way we get better.
Nick, Sep 2025
What a perfect way to experience Crete. Didn't know we would get to see soap-making, but it was a great experience. The olive oil factory and winery tours and tastings were so interesting, and delicious. The lunch at the end was a perfect way to cap off the day. Our driver Tony was friendly and fun to talk to, and picked us up and dropped us off at our hotel. Cannot recommend this experience enough. One tiny thing, wish there was a little more communication in advance. Didn't hear any confirmation, pick-up time, etc. until the night before, after I sent a message thru Viator. Didn't detract from the day at all though, we had an amazing time.
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thank you so much for the kind and thoughtful review — we’re thrilled you had such a memorable day! The soap-making stop tends to catch people by surprise (in the best way), and we’re so glad it added something special to your experience. Tony will be over the moon to hear your praise — he’s a true gem, with the stories and heart to match.
Thank you as well for the note on pre-tour communication — that’s a fair point, and we’re actively working on improving that part of the guest experience, especially for those booking through platforms like Viator. But we're really glad it didn’t take away from the joy of the day. Ευχαριστούμε πολύ, and we hope to welcome you back to Crete for round two someday!
Herbert_W, Sep 2025
Very good from start to finish, soap making, olive and wine tasting was exceptional. Went on a couple before and this one was the best. Had 8 all together in two vans. Perfect size group.
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thank you so much for the kind words — short, sweet, and exactly what we love to hear! We're thrilled this tour stood out above the rest, especially since you had others to compare it with. It sounds like everything clicked: the experiences, the tastings, the small group vibe — and yes, two vans with just 8 people is often the magic number for a relaxed but social atmosphere.
We’re so glad you enjoyed the soap, olive oil, and wine — a proper trio of Cretan treasures. Ευχαριστούμε πολύ for choosing to spend your day with us!
Joseph_K, Sep 2025
Great guide Tony
Very interesting and informative tours
Soap tour was good. Learn a lot about olive process.
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thank you for the kind words! We're glad you had a great time with Tony — he's truly one of a kind, full of stories and knowledge (and a few jokes too, if you catch him in the right mood!). Sounds like the olive oil and soap experiences left a good impression — simple crafts with deep roots and plenty to learn.
Thanks for joining us and taking the time to share your thoughts — ευχαριστούμε πολύ! You’re always welcome back for more stories, scents, and Cretan sunshine.
Robert_H, Aug 2025
This was a fantastic trip with the best experiences. The olive oil farm had a great view and the owner treated everyone like family. Could have spent hours there just enjoying the conversations and view! Also the olive oil and other items were 10/10. The vineyard was also beautiful and the owner was also equally as accommodating. There was so much more to the experience than what it suggests.
Response from Host, Aug 2025
What a beautiful reflection — thank you! It’s so rewarding to hear that the warmth of our hosts and the depth of the experience left such a strong impression. That olive grove view does have a way of making you forget the time, doesn't it? And you're spot on — it’s not just tastings, it’s connection, conversation, and a kind of hospitality that’s been passed down through generations.
We always say that what’s listed on the itinerary is just the beginning… the real value lies in the *unexpected moments* — the laughs, the stories, the sense of being welcomed like an old friend. Ευχαριστούμε πολύ, and we hope you'll return one day to linger even longer.
Stan_R, Jul 2025
Things I wish I would have known were: 1. it’s very hot so take a fan. 2. Pack water b/c there was none offered at several of the stops. 3. Eat breakfast because the lunch was not until 3:00.
It was a packed day. We started with a surprise stop at an olive oil soap store, which was lovely! Bought several bars to take home and for gifts. Then we went to the first wine stop, they said it was the smallest winery in Crete. The vines were beautiful and a great spot to take photos. We got to eat grapes off the vines before going inside to try 3 wines as well as Raki and a liqueur. Next stop was the olive oil tour. It was very educational and we got to taste 3 types of oil with some bread. The next stop was another quick wine tasting of 3 more wines and then we went to the lunch. Food was light but very tasty.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you so much for your detailed feedback and for sharing both the highlights and the practical tips — future travelers will thank you! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed the olive oil soap shop, the vineyards, and the tastings — there's something magical about biting into a grape straight from the vine, isn't there?
Now, you're absolutely right about a few things. The Cretan sun is not for the faint of heart — a fan and a water bottle are *essential gear* in the summer. As for the water availability and the late lunch, we hear you loud and clear. We'll make sure to better communicate these details in advance and also remind our partners to offer water at more stops. Your experience helps us improve, and we genuinely appreciate it. Safe travels and ευχαριστούμε πολύ for joining us!
Mary_R, Jun 2025
Everything was wonderful- we loved the soap tour, the olive and wine were excellent. Our hosts at each stop were warm and friendly. If you can request Tony as your driver you won’t go wrong. He was helpful and informative about the island. 5 stars for Tony alone!!
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled you enjoyed every part of the journey—from soap-making to sipping olive oil and wine, and especially meeting our warm-hearted hosts. These people *are* the soul of the island, and it means a lot that you felt their hospitality.
And Tony… well, what can we say? He’s a living legend in our team (don’t tell him though, his hat barely fits as it is!). We’re lucky to have him, and we’ll make sure he hears your glowing praise. If you ever find yourself back in Crete, we’ll be here—ready with more stories, sips, and smiles.
Dovile_T, Jun 2025
Small walks around the properties, so you don't get tired. From each spot you get a drive of around 10-15 minutes. Staff is very lovely in every spot we stopped.
Response from Host, Jun 2025
Thank you for your kind words! We’re delighted you appreciated our thoughtful pacing—the short walks and scenic drives are designed to keep the day enjoyable. Most of all, we’re so glad our wonderful hosts made each stop special for you. Hope to welcome you back for more relaxed exploration soon!
Semanthini_N, Jun 2025
Great experience , absolute fun was had . All stops including Eleni our tour operator were friendly and make this a wonderful experience .
Response from Host, Jun 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you had such a great time and that Eleni (our secret weapon!) helped make the day even more memorable. She does have a way of turning a tour into a gathering of old friends.
Your feedback means a lot to us — it reminds us why we do what we do: to offer moments of joy, authenticity, and a sprinkle of Cretan hospitality. You're always welcome back for round two (with raki, of course).
Mary_R, Jun 2025
This was an amazing outing! The local olive oil grove and Tami distillery went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. A great way to spend a day and learn a lot in Crete.
Response from Host, Jun 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled you had such a great time – the team at the olive grove and Tami distillery always put their heart into what they do, and it's lovely to hear it came through. There’s something special about learning through taste, scent, and stories straight from the people who live it every day.
We’re glad you got a real slice of Cretan life with us. Come back anytime – the raki will still be strong, and the welcome just as warm!
Gail_C, May 2025
Fun day. Learned so much about olive oil, raki and Greek wine. Had a delicious lunch. Whole tour was well timed and fulfilled all that was promised in the description.
Response from Host, May 2025
We’re thrilled you had such a fun and flavorful day with us! Nothing makes us happier than hearing our guests leave with new knowledge (and full bellies!). It’s wonderful you enjoyed learning about Cretan olive oil, raki, and wine—and that the tour delivered exactly as promised.
We’ll be sure to share your compliments with our team and local partners. Hope those delicious memories inspire a return visit someday!
Kimberly_N, May 2025
Wonderful shore excursion when in cruise port. They accommodated our arrival and departure times. Our driver Tony really gave us a lot of insight to local customs. We liked the local flavor this tour provided. Loved experience with small farms and businesses. Lunch was more than expected and full of local flavor and hospitality. Tony was aware of our schedule and proactive with timely return to ship.
Response from Host, May 2025
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled you enjoyed your authentic Cretan experience with Tony. It's our pleasure to accommodate cruise schedules while sharing local traditions and flavors. We'll let Tony know how much you appreciated his insights and timeliness. Hope to welcome you back to explore more of Crete's hidden gems!
Charlie_W, May 2025
Supporting locally owned and operated friendly informative and the weather was only a minor problem. Not anyone’s fault.
Response from Host, May 2025
Thank you for your kind words! We're so happy you enjoyed the tour and supported our local business. Weather aside, we're glad you had a great time with our team. Hope to see you again soon!
Sam_P, Apr 2025
Interesting to see and speak with the makers of olive oil, raki and wine in Crete. Pickups and drop-offs were on time and convenient. Alex at Cretan Dragon Farm was entertaining and informative, offering us some dragonfruit herbal tea and olive marmalade to try alongside olive oil, the olives themselves, and a yoghurt bergamot dessert. The lady at the raki stop - a very small family-run operation - was passionate and friendly, letting us sample lots of wines and liqueurs as well as her raki. Then the visit to Titakis Winery gave insight into how a bigger wine producer operates and we tasted three wines with a couple of food pairings. Lunch at Archanes village was a simple affair - some Greek salad and sides followed by chicken with potatoes (or stewed beans and potatoes for vegetarians). We ate on a table with the others on the tour surrounded by street cats who polished off our leftovers. Overall, an insightful cultural experience.
Response from Host, Apr 2025
Thank you for sharing such a vivid and detailed account of your day with us—we love hearing how each stop left its own special impression! It sounds like you really embraced the heart of Crete, from Alex’s playful hospitality (and those unique dragonfruit and bergamot treats!) to the raki maker’s passion and the contrast at Titakis Winery.
There’s something magical about sharing meals and stories with fellow travelers (and the ever-present Cretan street cats!), and we’re so glad you appreciated the authenticity of each family-run spot. Moments like these—simple, flavorful, and full of local character—are exactly what we aim to share.
Your review perfectly captures why we love what we do: connecting guests with the people who make Crete so special. We’d be delighted to welcome you back for more insights, laughter, and perhaps a few more feline lunch companions someday!
Johanna_A, Apr 2025
This incredible small group tour takes you to a family owned olive oil producer that also grows dragon fruit-after an informative walk you taste some homemade olive oil. Next is a stop at a family owned raki distillery and small wine producer. Again, educational walk with fun discussions, drinks and nibbles. We had a wine tasting at Tatakis winery, the largest in Crete. Our delicious lunch at an outdoor Taverna finished the day with much laughter and talk. We were a group of five people and by the end of the tour felt like a group of old friends whom were hanging out together eating and drinking. Our driver and guide Eleni was friendly and informative. A fantastic day for sure!
Response from Host, Apr 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear you had such a fantastic day exploring Crete’s hidden gems with Eleni and your small group. It’s heartwarming to know you enjoyed the visits to the family-owned olive oil and raki producers, along with the wine tasting at Tatakis Winery—it sounds like the perfect mix of education, delicious flavors, and fun!
One of our favorite parts of these tours is seeing strangers become friends by the end of the day, sharing laughs and stories over great food and drinks. Your description of feeling like "old friends" by the end is exactly the vibe we aim for! We’ll be sure to pass your kind words along to Eleni—she’ll be delighted to know she helped make your experience so memorable.
We’d love to welcome you back for another adventure in Crete someday. Until then, cheers to great memories (and maybe a glass of that Cretan wine)!
Marjorie_R, Mar 2025
Great experience visiting the olive factory. Alex is very nice and professional. Products are amazing!
The Raki visit with Maria was amazing, she is very nice and thoughtful
The last place we ate the tavern, food was great and the ambiance family oriented.
Our guide Angelica is very professional and courteous. She shared a lot of her knowledge with us and other places to visit and gave us some ideas for other tours.
Thank you Angelica for your kindness!
Response from Host, Mar 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words and thoughtful feedback! We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed the olive factory and had a great time with Alex and Maria — both are truly passionate about what they do, and it's great to know that came through during your visit. It’s also lovely to hear you appreciated the meal at the tavern and the warm, family-style atmosphere.
Angelica will be especially touched to read your comments — she genuinely enjoys sharing her knowledge and helping guests get the most out of their time in Crete. We're grateful you chose to explore with us, and we hope to welcome you back for another adventure soon!
Laurie_M, Nov 2024
The whole day was great and our drivers were so personable and knowledgeable. We were excited to learn about olive oil and it did not disappoint. All our questions were answered and we bought. (I hope they get reliable internet soon so they can more than cash!) Our wine tour exceeded our expectations. We got the owner as our guide in an intimate tasting. It was so enjoyable and she taught us so much. We were so spoiled with the traditional lunch and had so much wonderful food. Our day exceeded our expectations and would highly recommend.!
Response from Host, Nov 2024
Thank you for sharing such a fantastic review! We’re thrilled to hear that the tour exceeded your expectations and that you enjoyed learning about Crete’s rich olive oil and wine culture. The dedication of our guides and local hosts makes all the difference, and it’s wonderful to know that they created such an informative and warm experience for you, from the engaging olive oil session to the wine tasting with the owner.
It sounds like the traditional lunch was a hit too! We love sharing Cretan flavors and hospitality, and we’re so glad you felt truly spoiled. We appreciate your note on the internet access as well and will pass that along. Thank you for recommending us, and we hope to welcome you back to Crete for more unforgettable experiences!
LouAnn_B, Nov 2024
A visit to a small olive farm. Learned a few basics by watching a video. Owner explained growing of dragon fruit. Small sampling of the olive oil and dragon fruit. Facilities were small with no public bathroom, only the use of the family home. Wineries were factories. Small display vines but no vineyards. Sampled several wines paired with a few cheeses and crackers. Not a scenic tour. Lunch was a few shared plates of local foods, dessert was another dish of yogurt. Sampling of Raki.
Response from Host, Nov 2024
Thank you for your feedback; we appreciate your insights! It sounds like some parts of the experience didn’t fully align with your expectations, and we’d love to offer a bit more context to round out the picture of this tour.
This journey is crafted to highlight the authentic, family-run aspects of Crete’s olive oil, wine, and culinary industries. The olive farm you visited is an intimate operation, rooted in traditional practices and dedicated to sustainability. While small, the family’s emphasis on quality and the cultivation of unique crops like dragon fruit adds an unconventional twist to the tasting experience. We also understand that the winery tours may feel different from more vineyard-focused settings; in Crete, wineries are often boutique, with limited vineyard land but high attention to production quality and flavor.
For lunch, we aim to serve a variety of local dishes to give a true taste of Cretan cuisine. Shared plates and tastings of regional specialties are intended to offer a sampling experience, including the homemade yogurt—a local favorite for dessert. We hope this additional context helps paint a fuller picture of the tour's focus on authentic Cretan culture, both in the farms’ practices and the rich flavors of the island. Thank you again for joining us and for taking the time to share your thoughts!
TriVan_N, Oct 2024
Lovely day on a semi private tour to the wine country around Heraklion. Great value. We made friends with the two only other people in the tour. Recommend for a relaxing exploration in the area around Heraklion!
Response from Host, Oct 2024
Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed a relaxing, semi-private day in the picturesque wine country around Heraklion. Our goal is always to create an inviting and intimate setting, and it's wonderful to know that the small group format allowed you not only to explore Crete’s flavors but also to make new friends along the way.
The Heraklion region has so much to offer, from lush vineyards to unique culinary experiences, and we're glad you felt it was an excellent value. If you’re ever back in Crete, we’d love to have you join us for more local adventures—there’s always something new to discover!
mdancermd, Oct 2024
We had a blast. The drivers were helpful, informative, and courteous. The people were so nice and the food was good.
Response from Host, Oct 2024
Thank you for sharing your experience! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the tour and found our drivers helpful and informative. It’s wonderful to know that you felt welcomed by the friendly locals and enjoyed the delicious Cretan food along the way.
We appreciate you choosing to tour with us and hope to welcome you back to Crete for more memorable experiences!
Holly_M, Oct 2024
We were a group of ten on this experience.
What we liked:
The drive through the countryside was nice. We were in two vans. One driver gave a lot of interesting information about Crete during the drive, as was in the trip description.
We enjoyed the tour and tasting at the Olive Farm!
We enjoyed the tour and tasting at the winery!
Regarding the lunch, the food and wine provided were tasty and of good quality
I liked that the owner reached out to me to confirm our pick up point and time.
What needs improvement:
One van driver did not volunteer any information about Crete to the group. We asked him to do so and he said we would have to ask him questions.
The trip description said that water would be provided, but when we asked for it, the drivers had none for us.
We were supposed to be brought back to our destination by 5 pm, but arrived late at 5:30 pm.
The trip description says it is not wheelchair accessible, but the description needs to include additional information for those with mobility issues. It should state that to tour the Olive Farm, you will walk 50 yards over uneven, sloping dirt surfaces. Also, to tour the winery, you will walk for 30 minutes, need to walk up and down staircases and over sloping surfaces.
It would be helpful for passengers getting in the van if handles were installed inside the door area and if a step was installed or a step stool provided.
Lunch was a light lunch. It was a bit disorganized. It would have been nice to have had a menu of the items. Also it seemed we were given items out of order. We were given tziziki sauce after we finished our spanikopita and cheese pies, but the tziziki would have been good on these. And the bread was brought out a long time after the fava bean dip. Also, we were supposed to get "lots of wine" here, but we only got one small glass.
Response from Host, Oct 2024
Thank you for sharing your detailed feedback about your group's experience. We're glad to hear that you enjoyed several aspects of the tour, such as the scenic drive, the tastings at the Olive Farm and winery, and the quality of the food and wine during lunch. It’s also reassuring to know that the communication regarding pick-up was smooth.
We apologize for the areas that fell short of expectations. We'll ensure our drivers are consistent in providing informative commentary throughout the journey and will address the issue of water availability, as it’s an essential part of the tour. Your feedback on accessibility and the need for clearer descriptions of mobility challenges is very valuable, and we will update our descriptions accordingly to ensure future guests have better information before booking. We also appreciate your suggestions on the lunch organization, including the timing of dishes and wine service, and will work on improving the flow to enhance the dining experience.
Thank you again for your insights, and we hope to offer you a more seamless and enjoyable experience if you choose to tour with us in the future!
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