PRIVATE Workshop ESSENTIAL OILS & OLIVE OIL Factory with TASTING

Exploring Crete offers many options, but this PRIVATE workshop combining essential oils, olive oil factory visits, and local tastings truly captures the island’s essence. Priced at $218.64 per person and lasting approximately 6 hours, this tour provides an intimate look at Crete’s culinary and artisanal traditions. The experience is designed for those who enjoy hands-on activities, local culture, and authentic flavors, all with the convenience of pickup from Hersonissos and surrounding areas.

This tour stands out because of its combination of guided visits to a traditional olive oil factory, a private cooking class, and a visit to an authentic mountain village. The emphasis on local craftsmanship and food makes it ideal for travelers seeking a genuine Crete experience. While the tour is heavily focused on culture and cuisine, it offers a relaxed pace, with no strenuous physical activity required—perfect for most visitors who want an accessible, enriching day.

Key Points

• Private guided experience with a local driver and guide
• Visit an olive oil factory and participate in a tasting of Crete’s “Gold”
• Learn to cook Greek specialties like dolmades, tzatziki, and loukoumades in a scenic setting
• Tour begins and ends with pickup and drop-off around Hersonissos
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most activities being accessible and no physical strain
• Flexible cancelation and operated by multilingual guides

Starting Point and Tour Logistics in Crete’s Hersonissos

This private tour departs from a meeting point at the Eye Travel Excursions office in Chersonisou. With pickup included within a 15 km radius of Hersonissos, travelers avoid the hassle of organizing transport. An air-conditioned minibus transports your group comfortably throughout the day.

The tour includes personalized guidance during visits to the olive oil factory and the private cooking workshop. The group size tends to be small, ensuring an intimate, tailored experience. The entire day is approximately 6 hours, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed, yet engaging, exploration of Crete’s culinary and artisanal traditions.

Exploring the Olive Oil Factory and Tasting Crete’s “Gold”

The tour’s second stop is at a local olive oil factory, where a host guides your group through the olive oil production process. The guide explains how extra virgin olive oil is made and shares insights into what makes Crete’s olive oil celebrated worldwide. The tasting session that follows allows you to learn how to distinguish quality and appreciate the aroma, flavor, and complexity of this essential ingredient.

Many reviews highlight the olive oil tasting as a standout moment, with professional explanations that deepen understanding of why olive oil is considered the “Gold of Crete”. Although some may find the start of the visit slightly disappointing if expecting a larger factory, the guided tasting compensates with detailed insights and tasting tips.

Visiting Agios Nikolaos and Its Artistic Creations

The tour makes a charming stop at Agios Nikolaos, famous for its picturesque, bottomless lake. Here, you’ll find a private workshop where high-quality, organic, vegan cosmetics and fragrances are crafted based on Minoan recipes. This stop provides a unique opportunity to see local artisanal craftsmanship up close.

After the workshop, there’s free time to explore the pretty town of Agios Nikolaos on your own. Visitors can stroll along the shops, enjoy the scenery, or have lunch while watching the bustling streets. The two-hour stop balances culture with leisure, making it a delightful interlude in the day.

Authentic Cretan Mountain Village Visit

Following Agios Nikolaos, the tour proceeds to Neapoli, a traditional Cretan mountain village. The visit offers a glimpse into rural life and local architecture. While the itinerary mentions this village, the main focus remains on learning about local products and culinary traditions. It’s a chance to appreciate Crete’s rural charm and authentic atmosphere away from tourist hotspots.

Hands-On Cooking Class of Crete’s Classic Dishes

The highlight for many is the private cooking workshop in a scenic restaurant with noteworthy views. Here, you’ll learn to prepare a selection of regional specialties, including Greek salad, dolmades, tzatziki, and loukoumades. The host, with a warm and knowledgeable approach, guides you through the cooking techniques and traditional recipes.

The class is not rushed, offering plenty of opportunity to ask questions and enjoy the process. The setting enhances the experience, with a focus on local ingredients and authentic methods, giving you skills to recreate these dishes at home.

Tasting the Results of Your Crete-Inspired Cooking

Post-cooking, the group sits down to enjoy the homemade dishes prepared during the class. The view-filled restaurant adds to the pleasure, making it a memorable culinary experience. Many reviews praise the delicious food and the friendly, professional hosts who make everyone feel welcome.

This part of the tour offers a satisfying conclusion, turning your active participation into a tasty reward. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn cooking tips directly from local chefs and to sample authentic Crete flavors.

Additional Inclusions and Practical Details

The tour includes pickup and drop-off within Hersonissos and surrounding areas, insurance, gasoline, and a private guided experience at the olive oil factory and during the cooking workshop. The multilingual guides speak English, German, French, and other languages, ensuring smooth communication.

Not included are food and drinks outside the cooking class, and additional pickup options outside the specified areas, such as Heraklion, Sissi, and Elounda. The cancellation policy is flexible, offering free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

The Experience According to Reviews and Realities

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and friendly hosts as key strengths. The olive oil tasting and the cooking class are often praised for their authenticity and interactive nature. The scenic views and local atmosphere add a memorable touch, with many feeling they’ve gained a genuine appreciation for Crete’s culinary heritage.

Some reviews mention that the initial stop at the olive oil factory may be underwhelming if expectations aren’t managed, but the guided tastings and personalized experiences compensate well. The tour offers great value for those eager to connect with local traditions in a relaxed, private setting.

Unique Aspects of This Cretan Experience

This tour’s combination of activities—from cosmetics inspired by Minoan recipes to olive oil tasting and culinary lessons—sets it apart from standard sightseeing trips. The private nature ensures personalized attention, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, or small groups looking for an enriching day.

The scenic locations, hands-on approach, and authentic flavors ensure that participants leave with more than just memories—they gain practical skills and a deeper understanding of Crete’s artisanal culture.

The Sum Up: A Rich, Cultural Cretan Day

This PRIVATE workshop tour in Crete offers an engaging way to experience local craftsmanship, cuisine, and olive oil traditions. The guided visits, interactive cooking class, and market-style tasting sessions deliver authentic insights into the island’s artisanal heritage. The scenic stops at Agios Nikolaos and Neapoli add variety and charm.

The tour suits food lovers and culture seekers who appreciate personalized experiences and local stories. While some may find the initial factory visit a bit less impressive, the culinary workshops and tastings more than make up for it. Best of all, the flexible cancelation policy and inclusive transport make it a convenient option for exploring Crete’s culinary soul.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and most activities are suitable for family participation.

What is included in the price?
The price covers pickup and drop-off, private guided visits, the cooking workshop, and tastings at the olive oil factory.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, the cosmetic workshop features vegan, organic products, and the cooking class emphasizes local, plant-based ingredients.

What language do guides speak?
Guides operate in multiple languages, including English, German, French, and more.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 6 hours, making it a comfortably paced way to explore Crete’s culinary and artisanal side.