Private Exclusive Manousakis Winery and Vineyard Tour

Getting a taste of Crete’s celebrated wines is easy with the Private Exclusive Manousakis Winery and Vineyard Tour. For $577.85 per group, up to four people enjoy a 4 to 5-hour journey through scenic hills, guided vineyard visits, and unlimited wine tastings paired with a full meal. The tour departs directly from Chania-area hotels, with pickup and drop-off included, making it a convenient and personalized experience. While this tour is tailored for those who appreciate wine and authentic Cretan food, it involves some off-road driving to reach the vineyard, which may not suit everyone with mobility or health concerns.

This private tour offers a chance to explore the Vatolakos Hills, reach an elevation of 660 meters, and enjoy sweeping views of northern Crete. The experience includes a guided tour of the Manousakis Winery, where visitors learn about wine-making, taste five different wines, and indulge in a full Cretan meal with bottomless wine pours. It’s an ideal choice for wine lovers seeking a relaxed, intimate outing with rich flavors and beautiful scenery.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience for up to four guests at a fixed price
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Chania and along the coast
• Taste five wines with unlimited glasses during a full meal
• Visit the scenic Vatolakos Hills, reaching 660 meters elevation for panoramic views
• Guided tour of the vineyard and winery, with insights into Cretan wine craftsmanship
• Off-road adventure to the winery, suitable for most but not for those with mobility issues

Scenic Off-Road Drive to the Vatolakos Hills

The tour begins with a private off-road vehicle ride that takes you through the Vatolakos Hills, reaching an elevation of 660 meters. The drive offers impressive views of northern Crete, showcasing the landscape around the Manousakis Winery. This part of the experience highlights the rugged beauty of Crete’s countryside and sets the scene for a day immersed in nature and viticulture.

Tour of the Manousakis Winery and Cellars

At the Manousakis Winery, the guides lead you through the cellars and bottling areas, explaining the art and craft of winemaking. You’ll learn about the winery’s unique processes while soaking in the charm of the beautiful surroundings. The winery is known for its celebrated wines, making this visit both educational and appealing for those interested in the detailed work behind each bottle.

Tasting Five Wines with Unlimited Glasses

The core highlight of this tour is the five-wine tasting, paired with rusks and olive oil for added flavor. Visitors can enjoy bottomless pouring, making it a relaxed experience to savor the wines at your own pace. This generous tasting is complemented by an authentic Cretan full meal, allowing you to enjoy the wines alongside local delicacies.

Authentic Cretan Food and Local Delights

After the wine tasting, the tour includes a full meal featuring Cretan delicacies. The meal provides a hearty way to indulge after sampling wines, with the opportunity to enjoy local flavors in a scenic setting. This pairing adds a culinary dimension to the wine experience, making it a well-rounded outing.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour features private premium off-road vehicles with multilingual escorts, ensuring a comfortable ride. It’s suitable for most travelers, but not recommended for individuals with car sickness, mobility, or back issues, or for pregnant women and children under 7. Taller guests over 195 cm or heavier than 130 kg may find the vehicle ride challenging. The experience is not accessible for those with certain health limitations, so travelers should consider their comfort with off-road driving.

Flexibility and Booking Info

Most bookings are made about 45 days in advance, reflecting the tour’s popularity. The tour offers wide departure times, allowing flexibility to fit it into various schedules. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, providing peace of mind in case plans change.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

The emphasis on private, personalized service and unlimited wine consumption makes this stand out. The inclusion of a full meal paired with wine, along with the scenic hilltop setting, creates a memorable experience for wine enthusiasts. The off-road journey adds a layer of adventure often missing in more conventional wine tours.

Satisfaction and Customer Feedback

Both reviews highlight the delightful taste experience and friendly escort service. One reviewer praises the five wine varieties paired with rusks and olive oil, while another appreciates the pleasant winery environment and beautiful surroundings. The consistently high ratings indicate a reliable, enjoyable experience.

Final Thoughts on the Manousakis Vineyard Tour

This tour offers a luxurious, private experience perfect for those wanting to enjoy Crete’s wines in an intimate setting. The combination of scenic off-road drives, educational winery visits, and unlimited tastings makes it a compelling choice. However, travelers should be aware of the off-road vehicle ride and physical limitations that might affect participation.

Ideal for wine lovers, foodies, and travelers seeking a personalized outing, this tour provides a well-rounded taste of Crete’s viticulture, combined with stunning views and authentic local flavors. It’s a great way to spend a few hours exploring Crete’s countryside and enjoying top-quality wines with a full meal in a relaxed, private setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it is not recommended for children under 7 due to the off-road vehicle ride and lack of children’s amenities.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Are beverages unlimited during the tasting?
Yes, the tour offers bottomless wine pours during the five-wine tasting and meal.

What should I wear for this tour?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor, off-road conditions is recommended.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, free pickup and drop-off are included from hotels in Chania and along the coast.

How long is the entire experience?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, including transportation, vineyard visits, tasting, and meal.

What is the price for the group?
The cost is $577.85 per vehicle, accommodating up to four guests.

Are there any physical requirements or restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues, back problems, or car sickness. Taller guests over 195 cm or heavier than 130 kg may find the vehicle ride challenging.