PRIVATE Spinalonga & Agios Nikolaos & Olive Oil Factory CRETE

Explore Crete’s Highlights in a Private 8-Hour Tour

This private Crete tour offers an engaging day exploring some of the island’s most captivating sights. For $154.76 per person, you enjoy a customized experience with a personal guide leading you through Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, and an olive oil factory. The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and includes pick-up and drop-off services within a 15 km radius of Hersonissos, making it a convenient way to see Crete’s diverse attractions.

What sets this tour apart is its intimate, private setting, perfect for those seeking a relaxed pace and personalized attention. A boat trip to Spinalonga is a highlight, along with breathtaking coastal views, a visit to a traditional fishing village, and the chance to learn about olive oil production. The tour’s flexibility and knowledgeable guides make it suitable for a wide range of visitors, though it requires moderate walking and a willingness to explore outdoor sites.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with your own group and guide
• Includes boat trip to and from Spinalonga island
• Visits the Bottomless Lake and Mirabello Bay for scenic views
• Guided tour of an olive oil factory with tastings included
• Approximately 8 hours long, with pick-up within Hersonissos
• Admission fee to Spinalonga costs €20 per person, payable at the entrance

Starting Point and Tour Duration in Crete

The tour begins at Eye Travel Excursions in Stalida, close to Chersonisos, and lasts around 8 hours. The pick-up service is available within a 15 km radius, ensuring easy access for most visitors staying in the area. The itinerary includes multiple stops, with the flexibility to customize based on the group’s interests.

The guided tour is designed to be comfortably paced, with enough time allotted for each main stop. The boat trips to Spinalonga add a unique touch, making for a smooth and scenic transition between land and sea. The entire experience is managed with transportation in an air-conditioned minibus, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Discovering Agios Nikolaos and the Bottomless Lake

The first stop is Agios Nikolaos, a lively coastal town renowned for its spectacular view of the “Bottomless Lake” and Mirabello Bay. Here, visitors enjoy about an hour to take in the scenery, browse local shops, and sip coffee overlooking the harbor.

This location combines beautiful landscapes with a vibrant town atmosphere, offering a chance to relax and soak in Crete’s seaside charm. The free time also allows for some light shopping or a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

Scenic Drive Along Mirabello Bay and Passing Elounda

After exploring Agios Nikolaos, the tour proceeds along the coastline of Mirabello Bay. This scenic drive provides numerous photo stops that showcase the stunning sea views and rugged coastline.

As the bus passes by Elounda, the route offers plenty of opportunities to capture memorable pictures of this renowned fishing village and luxury resort area. The drive itself becomes an attraction, revealing the natural beauty and peacefulness of Crete’s eastern coast.

Visiting Plaka and the Traditional Fishing Boat Ride to Spinalonga

Next, the tour heads to Plaka, a tiny harbor village known for its fishing boats and tranquil atmosphere. From here, a typical Greek fisher boat takes visitors on a 10-minute ride across the water to Spinalonga.

This short boat trip is a major highlight, offering a unique perspective of the island and its surroundings. Once on Spinalonga, a full guided tour leads through the historic site while explaining its significance as the last leper colony in Europe. After exploring the island, the group returns to Plaka for a lunch at the harbor, with fresh fish and local dishes available.

Exploring Spinalonga’s Historic Site with a Private Guide

The Spinalonga visit includes about an hour of free time to discover the island at your own pace. The guided tour deepens the experience, with a professional guide sharing detailed insights into its history and notable features.

Spinalonga’s architecture, fortifications, and historical importance become more meaningful with expert narration. Visitors appreciate the combination of outdoor exploration and cultural learning, all within a manageable timeframe.

Tasting Crete’s Olive Oil at Vassilakis Estate

After returning from Spinalonga and enjoying lunch, the tour moves on to the Vassilakis Estate for a guided olive oil factory tour. This part of the day lasts around an hour, where visitors learn about olive oil production methods, grading, and pressing techniques.

The experience includes a tasting session featuring different olive oils and other local products, giving a flavorful insight into Crete’s rich agricultural traditions. Visitors can also browse a souvenir shop for local products to take home.

Practical Details: Transportation, Inclusions, and Exclusions

Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned minibus, with pick-up and drop-off included within a 15 km radius of Hersonissos. The tour fee covers gasoline, insurance, and a personal guide, ensuring a smooth and informative day.

Included in the price are the boat trip to Spinalonga, the olive oil factory guided tour, and tastings. Additional costs involve the €20 entrance fee for Spinalonga, payable at the site. The tour excludes lunch, drinks, and transportation to other locations like Heraklion or additional villages.

The Experience of the Guides and Customer Satisfaction

Based on consistent 5-star reviews, the guides are praised for their knowledgeable and friendly approach. Guides like Louise and Luisa receive special mention for their ability to communicate history clearly and provide personal attention.

The scenery, history, and local food are frequently highlighted as favorite aspects. Visitors also appreciate the personalized, private setting, which makes the experience more relaxed and flexible.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour suits adults and families looking for a comprehensive, private day exploring Crete’s coastal beauty, historic sites, and culinary delights. It’s especially appealing to those interested in history, scenic views, and food tastings, with a moderate pace suitable for most fitness levels.

Since it requires some walking and outdoor time, it’s best for those comfortable with moderate physical activity. The private nature of the tour ensures a tailored experience, perfect for travelers seeking an intimate, well-organized day.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Crete Experience Worth Booking

This private tour of Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, and the olive oil factory offers a balanced mix of history, scenic beauty, and local culture. The inclusion of boat trips, guided explanations, and tastings provides a rich, engaging experience that feels personalized and authentic.

While the €20 entrance fee to Spinalonga is paid separately, the overall value for the price remains strong considering the private guide, transportation, and multiple stops. This tour is an excellent choice for visitors seeking a comprehensive day without feeling rushed, especially those who enjoy history, coastal views, and culinary experiences.

The combination of scenic drives, historical exploration, and local tastings makes this tour a memorable way to discover Crete’s eastern coast, especially for those who appreciate a relaxed, private setting and expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in this tour?
The tour includes pick-up and drop-off, personal guide, boat trip to and from Spinalonga, guided tour of an olive oil factory, tastings, and insurance.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, providing ample time for each stop and some flexibility.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $154.76 per person, with optional additional payment of €20 at Spinalonga for the entrance fee.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are opportunities to eat in Plaka after the boat trip.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Eye Travel Excursions in Stalida and returns to the same location.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour involves outdoor walking and boat trips, so some physical activity is required.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The boat trip to Spinalonga and exploring the island’s historic site tend to be the most admired features, complemented by stunning coastal views and a taste of local culture.

Do guides speak multiple languages?
Yes, the tour is operated by a multilingual guide offering explanations in German, English, French, and other languages.