Wine & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat

Discover the authentic tastes and sights of Crete with the Wine & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat, a highly rated experience that costs $171.81 per person for a full-day adventure lasting 7 to 8 hours. This tour departs from Chania, Greece, and offers a cozy, small-group setting with up to 6 guests per vehicle, led by a knowledgeable local guide. It’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking a deep dive into Cretan gastronomy, history, and scenic landscapes without the hassle of planning logistics.

What makes this tour especially appealing is its focus on hands-on tastings, cultural stops, and an eco-friendly lunch. The tour includes visits to the Olive Tree Museum of Vouves, where the 3000-year-old olive tree is still productive, and to Anoskeli Winery Olive Mill for expert-led tastings of olive oils and local wines. The highlight is a delicious lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat, a renowned eco-tourism destination, plus an exciting off-road drive through the Topolia Gorge and surrounding Chania countryside. The tour provides round-trip transfers from Chania hotels, making the experience smooth and stress-free.

While it is a full-day experience with multiple stops, travelers should be prepared for moderate walking at some locations and off-road driving in 4WD vehicles. The tour is ideal for adults and older children and offers a blend of culinary delights and scenic exploration that has earned a perfect 5-star rating from 175 reviews.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with up to 6 guests, led by a local driver/guide
• Visit the 3000-year-old olive tree at the Olive Tree Museum of Vouves
• Taste organic extra virgin olive oils and five types of local wines at Anoskeli Winery
• Enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch and dessert at the eco-friendly Milia Mountain Retreat
• Explore Topolia Gorge with wild scenery, vultures, and mountain goats
• Hassle-free pickup and round-trip transfers from Chania hotels

Crete’s Olive Heritage at the Olive Tree Museum of Vouves

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Olive Tree Museum of Vouves, home to one of the oldest olive trees in the world, still producing olives today. Standing next to this 3000-year-old tree, visitors get a rare glimpse into ancient agriculture. The stop includes some coffee or orange juice and a chance to explore a typical Cretan farm, connecting you with the island’s long-standing olive-growing tradition.

This stop lasts just over an hour and a ticket is included, ensuring a smooth experience. The historic olive tree is a highlight that brings timelessness and nature together, making it a memorable start to the day.

Olive Oil Tasting at Anoskeli Winery Olive Mill

Next, the group heads to Anoskeli Winery Olive Mill, where olive oil experts guide you through tastings of extra virgin and organic olive oils. The expert-led session clarifies the differences between types and highlights the special qualities of Cretan oils. Alongside, you’ll sample five labels of local wine, paired with Cretan snacks.

This stop is a favorite for its informative tastings and authentic flavors. With admission included, visitors learn about the production process in a relaxed, friendly environment, gaining insight into Crete’s rich olive and wine heritage.

Off-Road Exploration Across Chania’s Countryside

Traveling in comfortable 4WD vehicles with climate control, the tour explores Chania’s rural landscapes beyond the usual paths. This part of the trip lasts about 1 hour and 35 minutes, taking you through less-traveled areas of the Chania Prefecture.

The off-road journey offers stunning views and a closer look at Cretan life. The small-group format ensures plenty of time for photo stops and informal storytelling, making it a relaxed yet scenic drive.

Authentic Lunch with Views at Milia Mountain Retreat

The lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat is a major highlight, set in an authentic 17th-century mountain village with stone houses and eco-friendly design. Recognized by National Geographic as a top eco- and agro-tourism spot worldwide, Milia offers a Cretan meal featuring local flavors.

The meal includes wine or beer, dessert, and plenty of time to enjoy the rustic setting. This mealtime pause is praised for its delicious food and the tranquil mountain atmosphere, providing a true taste of Cretan hospitality.

Scenic Drive and Cultural Insight in Southwest Crete

Following lunch, the group continues in the 4WD vehicle for about 1 hour and 35 minutes, exploring the Southwest part of Crete. This route offers additional scenic views and a chance to enjoy more local landscapes away from crowded tourist spots.

This section emphasizes the diversity of Crete’s terrain and allows for more off-road driving, making the experience more adventurous and personalized.

The Wild Beauty of Topolia Gorge

The tour concludes with a visit to Topolia Gorge, a stunning showcase of Cretan wilderness. Over 10 minutes, travelers witness dramatic rock formations, mountain goats, and vultures soaring above. The scenery offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate unspoiled nature.

This stop is brief but powerful, leaving a lasting impression of Crete’s untamed landscapes.

Logistics and Group Experience

The entire tour is designed for small groups up to 6 people, ensuring plenty of personalized attention. The pickup service is available from hotels and rentals within 5 km east and 25 km west of Chania, simplifying arrangements. The tour starts promptly at 9:00 am and operates rain or shine, with appropriate dress recommended.

The use of private vehicles and expert guides creates a comfortable and engaging environment, praised in reviews for knowledgeable narration and friendly hosting.

Who Will Love This Tour

This experience suits those who enjoy culinary tastings, scenic drives, and cultural stops. It appeals especially to adults and older children who appreciate history, nature, and food. The small-group format and personalized service make it ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed yet immersive day.

While the off-road driving requires some moderate physical effort, the stops are generally accessible, and the lunch at Milia is a highlight for anyone craving authentic Cretan cuisine.

Final Thoughts on the Crete Food & Scenic Tour

The Wine & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat offers excellent value for its comprehensive itinerary, combining culture, food, and nature. The expert guides and customized small-group experience receive consistent praise, making it a reliable choice for first-time visitors and repeat explorers alike.

While the tour involves multiple stops and some off-road driving, the scenic views, tastings, and authentic meal make it well worth it. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want to see Crete beyond the beaches, enjoying local flavors in a relaxed, intimate setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and including multiple stops with sightseeing, tastings, and lunch.

What is included in the cost?
The price covers admission tickets, olive oil and wine tastings, lunch with wine or beer and dessert, coffee or juice, bottled water, round-trip transfers from Chania, and a local guide.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is generally suited for adults and older children due to the driving and tasting activities.

What should I wear?
Dress smart casual, and be prepared for outdoor conditions. The tour operates rain or shine, so bring appropriate weather gear.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations are not refunded.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from hotels and rentals within 5 km east and 25 km west of Chania; pickup details are confirmed at booking.

Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, a vegetarian option can be requested at the time of booking.

What makes this tour different from others?
The small-group size, personalized guide service, and combination of cultural, culinary, and scenic stops set this experience apart.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Moderate walking is involved, and the off-road driving may be bumpy at times. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with some physical activity.

Is the tour eco-friendly?
Yes, the Milia Mountain Retreat is an eco-friendly site recognized for sustainable tourism.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is offered by CHANIA ADVENTURES SINGLE MEMBER P.C, ensuring consistent quality and personalized attention.