Knossos, Olive Grove, Winery – Distillery with Tastings & Lunch

Explore Crete’s Heritage and Flavors in One Day

This $219.94 tour offers a comprehensive look at Heraklion’s most treasured local products, perfect for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts. The 6 to 7-hour experience covers Knossos archaeological site, a family-run olive mill, a Cretan winery, and a raki distillery, with tastings at every stop. The tour includes pick-up service, a full-course lunch, and group discounts, making it both convenient and value-packed.

While the Knossos archaeological site requires an admission ticket, most visits are free, and the tour’s highlight is the variety of tastings—up to five indigenous wines, olive oils, and raki. The tour concludes with a scenic mountain top view at 850 meters altitude, offering a stunning panorama of Crete’s countryside. This experience suits those eager to deepen their understanding of Cretan traditions, all while enjoying delicious local flavors.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Approximately $220 per person for 6-7 hours of immersive experiences.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Pick-up and drop-off, lunch, wine, olive oil, and raki tastings included.
• Major Stops: Knossos archaeological site, olive mill, family winery, and raki distillery.
• Scenic Finale: Mountain top viewpoint at 850 meters, offering panoramic views of the Cretan landscape.
• Group Size and Booking: This is a private tour, with group discounts available and bookings made on mobile tickets.

Visiting Knossos: The Minoan Heart of Crete

The tour begins by visiting Knossos, the most significant Bronze Age archaeological site in Crete. Known as the palace complex of the Minoan civilization, it served as a ceremonial and political center. Guided by your driver, you get a chance to see this large, partially restored site, which was excavated in the early 20th century.

Note that admission tickets are not included in the tour price, so visitors should purchase them directly through the Hellenic Ministry of Culture’s official e-ticketing service if they wish to explore the site independently. Expect around 2 hours at this stop, where you can appreciate the impressive ruins and learn about Minoan culture.

Olive Oil and Olive Grove Tour at Skalani

Next, the journey continues to Skalani, a traditional olive grove farm where you get to witness olive cultivation and harvesting methods. The farm’s guided tour introduces the cultural importance of olive oil in Crete, blending age-old techniques with modern innovations.

The highlight here is the olive oil tasting session, where you sample oils that range from fruity to peppery, paired with fresh bread and herbs. Many visitors find this the perfect chance to understand the local olive oil quality and even purchase olive-based products to take home. The 1-hour stop is free of charge, but the experience offers plenty of insight into Crete’s culinary traditions.

Winemaking and Raki Distillation at Stironas

The family-run Stironas distillery provides a behind-the-scenes look at local wine and raki production. Here, the guides explain each step of the winemaking process, with the opportunity to taste more than nine different wines straight from oak barrels. Visitors can even fill their own bottle of wine and have it sealed with wax, with a custom label signed by the winemaker.

The 1.5-hour visit also features an undisclosed location where raki, a famous Cretan spirit, is distilled. Guests learn about the tradition and craftsmanship involved in raki production, which is a key part of local culture. This stop is a highlight for those interested in authentic local spirits and offers a rich tasting experience.

Traditional Cretan Lunch in Archanes Village

After the tastings, the tour moves to Archanes, a charming village renowned for its gastronomy and cultural heritage. Here, a full-course lunch at a local tavern showcases authentic Cretan flavors, accompanied by local wine and raki. The 1.5-hour meal offers a relaxing break and an opportunity to savor traditional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

Visitors appreciate the sense of community and tradition in Archanes, making the meal more than just a taste experience. The village setting provides a picturesque backdrop for this hearty, authentic meal, rounding out the culinary exploration of the day.

Scenic Drive to the Mountain Top Viewpoint

The final part of the tour involves a drive in a 4WD SUV to a mountain top at 850 meters, where visitors are rewarded with sweeping views of Cretan fields and colorful landscapes. This scenic stop offers a peaceful moment to reflect on the day’s experiences, with plenty of opportunities for photos of Crete’s countryside.

The viewpoint is not only picturesque but also emphasizes the diversity of Crete’s terrain, from ancient ruins to lush olive groves and rugged mountains. It’s a fitting end to a day of exploring heritage, nature, and local products.

The Convenience of Pickup and Private Experience

This tour includes personal pickup and drop-off, ensuring a hassle-free experience. As a private tour, it caters to groups seeking a personalized, relaxed pace. The air-conditioned vehicle adds comfort throughout the day, especially during the drives between stops.

Booking is straightforward with mobile tickets, and the tour often gets scheduled about 59 days in advance, showcasing its popularity among visitors to Heraklion. Group discounts are available, making it a flexible choice for families or small groups.

Considerations for Planning Your Day

While the tour offers a broad overview, keep in mind that Knossos tickets are not included, so plan to purchase them separately if you wish to explore the archaeological site. The duration of around 6 to 7 hours makes it suitable for those comfortable with a full day of activity, and walking involved at each stop is moderate.

Since the tour is private, it’s ideal for travelers who prefer a more tailored experience or want the flexibility to focus on specific interests like wine, olive oil, or history. The scenic drive and tastings make it especially appealing for food and nature lovers.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Cretan Day

This Knossos, Olive Grove, Winery, and Raki tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Crete’s cultural and culinary traditions in just one day. The combination of archaeological exploration, local product tastings, scenic views, and authentic meals makes it a value-rich experience.

While Knossos is more rewarding with a guide, the other stops shine for their warm family-run atmospheres and quality tastings. The scenic mountain viewpoint provides a stunning finish, making this tour a memorable way to connect with Crete’s heritage and natural beauty.

This tour is best suited for food lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a personalized, leisurely experience. It balances educational content with delicious tasting opportunities, ensuring a well-rounded day on the island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Do I need to buy tickets separately for Knossos?
Yes, admission tickets for Knossos are not included; you will need to purchase them directly from the official e-ticketing service.

Can I customize the stops?
This is a private tour, so it can be tailored to your interests during booking.

How long is the scenic mountain view?
The viewpoint at 850 meters is part of the final scenic drive, offering great photo opportunities and panoramic vistas.

What foods are served at the lunch?
A full-course traditional Cretan meal is provided at a local tavern, featuring authentic flavors and local wine and raki.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most stops involve moderate walking; travelers should be comfortable with walking and standing.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 59 days in advance, but availability can vary.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended for the sightseeing and scenic drive.

Are tastings included at all stops?
Yes, tastings are part of the olive mill, winery, and raki distillery visits.

Is this tour suitable for couples, families, or groups?
Yes, the private format makes it flexible for couples, families, or small groups seeking a personalized experience.