Discover the charm of Crete with the Chania Shore Excursion Off Road Vineyard and Winery Tour Half Day. Priced at $102.03 per person, this 4.5-hour adventure takes you off the beaten path through the Vatolakos Hills, offering breathtaking views of northern Crete’s landscape. The tour includes pickup from Souda or Chania old port, a scenic off-road drive, a guided visit to Manousakis Vineyards, and a generous wine tasting with five wines paired with a cheese platter.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its combination of adventure and education. It is suitable for most travelers, except those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or children under 7. The tour is well-rated, with 8 reviews giving a perfect 5.0/5, reflecting its popularity and the quality of the experience.

Key Points

Off-road vineyard exploration in Vatolakos Hills with panoramic views of northern Crete
Visit to Manousakis Winery with a guided tour and wine tasting of five different wines
Includes entrance fees, cheese platter, and unlimited wine glasses during tasting
Pickup and drop-off from Souda or Chania old port included
Group size limited to 24, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere
Not recommended for travelers with severe mobility issues, pregnant women, or under-7s

Scenic Drive Through Vatolakos Hills

This tour begins with a 45-minute drive from Souda or Chania to the Vatolakos Hills. The off-road journey takes you through rugged terrain, ascending to 660 meters above sea level, where each turn offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The landscape features extensive vineyards and rolling hills, providing a perfect backdrop for memorable photos.

The off-road experience is designed to showcase areas that many travelers miss, giving you a more authentic look at Crete’s countryside. A quick photo stop at the Valsamiotis Cofferdam adds to the scenic charm, with 5 minutes allocated to enjoy the views.

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Off-Road Vineyard Tour in Vatolakos

After the drive, you’ll reach the Vineyards Photo Stop for approximately 20 minutes. Here, the lush vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, giving a clear idea of what makes Crete’s wine so distinctive. The terrain and elevation provide the ideal conditions for grape growing, which the tour highlights.

This stop offers a preview of the winery experience to come, with the off-road journey setting a relaxed, adventurous tone that many travelers find enjoyable. The vehicle used is a premium off-road model, accommodating groups of 5, 7, or 9 people, driven by multilingual escort-drivers.

Guided Tour of Manousakis Winery

At the culmination of the trip, the Manousakis Winery welcomes visitors with its welcoming atmosphere. The guided tour provides insight into the local winemaking process, emphasizing craftsmanship and tradition. The winery staff are noted for their hospitable attitude, making visitors feel at home while learning about Crete’s viticulture.

The wine tasting includes five different wines, each offering a variety of flavors. During the tasting, visitors can enjoy unlimited glasses of wine, making it both an educational and indulgent experience. Complementing the wines, guests receive a cheese platter, enhancing the flavors and adding a touch of local culinary tradition.

Authentic Cretan Food and Wine Experience

The cheese platter and local delicacies served during the tasting session are a highlight for many. The pairing allows guests to appreciate the wines in a relaxed setting, with plenty of time for conversation. The full meal showcased at the winery emphasizes Cretan culinary traditions, adding a cultural element to the tour.

This aspect of the tour is designed to combine wine, food, and scenery, offering a well-rounded experience for those interested in local flavors and craftsmanship. The focus is on quality and authenticity, making it a genuine taste of Crete.

Logistics: Pickup, Duration, and Group Size

The tour departs promptly at 10:00 am, with free pickup and drop-off from Souda or Chania old port. The total duration is approximately 4 hours 30 minutes, making it an ideal half-day activity without feeling rushed.

The group size is capped at 24 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience with personalized attention from the multilingual escort-drivers. The tour uses premium vehicles, suited for off-road terrain, adding to the sense of adventure and comfort.

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Accessibility and Physical Considerations

While the tour offers a scenic off-road adventure, it is not recommended for travelers with mobility issues, car sickness, back problems, or pregnant women. The terrain and narrow cliffside roads require some physical resilience. The tour is also not suitable for children under 7 years old, as baby seats are not provided.

Plus, travelers taller than 195 cm or heavier than 130 kg may find the experience challenging. The tour emphasizes safety and comfort, but it’s best suited for those prepared for a moderate physical outing.

Pricing, Cancellation, and Booking Details

At $102.03 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusion of off-road driving, winery tour, five-wine tasting, cheese platter, and all fees. Booking is easy, with confirmation received at the time of reservation and flexible free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour experience depends on good weather and a minimum of four participants. If weather conditions are poor or the group minimum isn’t met, an alternative date or full refund is offered.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Crete

This half-day excursion blends adventure, scenic beauty, and wine tasting into a package that feels both authentic and personalized. The off-road journey takes you to hidden parts of the Vatolakos Hills, while the Manousakis Winery provides a firsthand look at Crete’s wine craftsmanship.

The knowledgeable guides and hospitable winery staff receive consistent praise for making the experience memorable. The unlimited wine tasting paired with a cheese platter makes it a treat for wine lovers and curious travelers alike.

Final Thoughts on the Off Road Vineyard and Winery Tour

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic drives, cultural insights, and wine indulgence in a manageable half-day format. It appeals most to those interested in local traditions, good scenery, and quality wines. The limited group size and experienced guides create a relaxed and engaging environment.

While the off-road aspect and terrain can be challenging for some, it remains an excellent choice for travelers seeking a unique, educational, and delicious experience in Crete. Those with mobility issues or traveling with very young children should consider other options, but for most others, this tour promises a memorable taste of Crete’s landscape and viticulture.

Ready to Book?

Chania Shore Excursion Off Road Vineyard and Winery Tour Half Day

5.0

(8)

“We spent our day with experienced and lovely tour guide Roy. Quite simply the best tour guide we've ever had. He provided a ton of knowledge on loc…”

— Joonas H, Aug 2023

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers pickup and drop-off from Souda or Chania old port, off-road vineyard exploration, entrance to the winery, wine tasting of five wines, and a cheese platter.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 4 hours 30 minutes, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not recommended for children under 7, as baby seats are not provided. The terrain and experience may not be suitable for very young children.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities are advised. Since part of the tour involves off-road driving, sturdy shoes are recommended.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not recommended for individuals with mobility issues, car sickness, back problems, pregnant women, or those taller than 195 cm or heavier than 130 kg.

This Chania Shore Excursion Off Road Vineyard and Winery Tour combines adventure and luxury in a way that makes the most of Crete’s beautiful landscape and renowned wines. It’s an experience that offers a genuine taste of local life, set against stunning scenery with knowledgeable guides leading the way.