Heraklion: Olive oil and Wine Tour with Lunch

Explore the Unique Heraklion Olive Oil and Wine Experience

This Heraklion tour offers an 8-hour journey into Crete’s culinary traditions, guided by a certified Sommelier. Starting from select pickup points, it takes you through olive groves, biodynamic vineyards, and award-winning wineries. The experience is perfect for those who want to combine cultural insights with tasting some of the island’s finest products.

What sets this tour apart is the intimate access to family-run farms and the opportunity to sample 6 premium local wines, paired with an authentic Cretan three-course lunch. While the tour is rich in gastronomy and scenic views, it’s best suited for those who enjoy walking through vineyards and olive groves and are comfortable with a full-day outing.

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Key Points

• 8-hour guided tour in the Heraklion countryside
• Visit to an olive oil farm with expert guidance
• Tasting of 6 premium Crete wines in an award-winning winery
• A three-course Cretan lunch, expertly paired with wines
• Enjoy scenic views of vineyards and olive groves
• Led by a professional Sommelier with WSET Level 3 certification

Starting Point and Duration of the Crete Food and Wine Journey

This full-day experience begins with hotel pickup from four locations: Agia Pelagia, Malia, Heraklion, or other nearby spots. The total duration is approximately 8 hours, making it a well-paced outing that covers culinary traditions, scenic landscapes, and local history. The tour includes scenic drives in jeep or SUV, offering comfort and flexibility through the countryside.

The tour’s flexibility in starting times allows guests to select a suitable schedule, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable day. It’s recommended to have a light breakfast before the start, as the day involves substantial tastings and a hearty lunch.

Visiting an Olive Farm in Skalani Village and Recognizing Extra Virgin Olive Oil

The journey kicks off at an olive farm in Skalani village. Here, an olive oil specialist guides guests through a walk among the olive groves, explaining the characteristics of extra virgin olive oil. Expect to learn about green aromas, fruity herbal notes, and spicy undertones that distinguish high-quality olive oil.

The farm visit includes tastings of olive oil paired with fresh vegetables, cheese, meat, honey, and wild herbs. Visitors gain practical knowledge on recognizing the traits of authentic extra virgin olive oil, which is celebrated for local ingredients and traditional production methods.

Tour of the Award-Winning Winery in Alagni Village

Next, the tour continues to Alagni village, home to one of Crete’s most beautiful family-run wineries. The biodynamic vineyard is the focus of a guided tour of the vineyard and cellar, led by a professional Sommelier.

Guests will enjoy spectacular views of the Lasithiotika mountains while inspecting the indigenous grape varieties cultivated on the estate. The winery’s emphasis on biodynamic practices contributes to the uniqueness of the wines produced. The guided visit offers insight into local winemaking techniques and the importance of indigenous grapes for Crete’s wine heritage.

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Tasting Six Premium Local Wines in an Award-Winning Setting

The highlight at the winery is the wine tasting session, where six carefully selected Crete-made wines are sampled. These wines are chosen for their quality, authenticity, and expression of local grape varieties. The Sommelier provides detailed descriptions of each wine’s aromas, flavors, and pairing options.

This experience is designed to enhance appreciation for Crete’s distinctive wine culture, especially through the guidance of an expert who helps guests understand the subtle differences among the varieties. The wines are served in a beautiful setting next to the vines, adding to the overall enjoyment.

Cretan Lunch: A Three-Course Food and Wine Pairing in the Vineyards

The lunch is served right next to the vineyards, emphasizing the connection between vineyard views and local cuisine. It features three courses of Cretan dishes prepared with fresh vegetables, wild greens, cheese, and meats cooked with herbs and extra virgin olive oil.

Each course is thoughtfully paired with premium local wines, selected by the Sommelier to complement and enhance the flavors. The food and wine pairing aims to create a harmonious taste experience, with dishes and wines carefully coordinated to highlight local ingredients.

Scenic Walks and Views of Olive Groves and Vineyards

Throughout the tour, there are opportunities to enjoy walks amid olive groves and vineyards. These scenic moments allow guests to appreciate the landscape and observe the agricultural practices that sustain Crete’s food and wine traditions.

The views of the mountains and lush countryside add a peaceful backdrop to the tasting experiences. The tour offers a nice balance of educational moments, scenic outlooks, and relaxed strolls.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with scenic drives in jeep or SUV that take about 35 minutes between stops. All entrance fees, guided tours, and tastings are included in the price, which covers 6 wines and a delicious Cretan lunch.

Guests should bring comfortable shoes and a passport or ID card. The tour is designed as a private group experience, with guides speaking Greek and English. It’s advisable to start the day with a light breakfast to enjoy the full tasting experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience suits wine lovers, foodies, and cultural travelers interested in authentic Cretan products. Knowledgeable guides and a personalized approach ensure a memorable journey. However, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or heart problems due to walking and outdoor activities.

The small group size and private nature make it an ideal choice for couples, friends, or small families seeking a relaxed yet informative day exploring Crete’s gastronomic treasures.

Final Thoughts on the Olive Oil and Wine Tour in Heraklion

This tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Crete’s olive oil and wine traditions, combining educational visits, tastings, and a flavorful lunch. The presence of a certified Sommelier ensures expert guidance, and the scenic locations make the experience especially enjoyable.

While it involves a full day of activity, guests are rewarded with a deep dive into local gastronomy and beautiful landscapes. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to taste, see, and learn about what makes Crete’s food and wine culture special.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including pickups, visits, tastings, and lunch.

Where does the tour start?
Pickup is available from Agia Pelagia, Malia, Heraklion, and other nearby locations.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, visits to an olive oil farm and winery, tasting of 6 wines, a three-course lunch, guided tours, and all entrance fees.

Is there a dress code?
Comfortable shoes are recommended; no specific dress code is required.

Can children join the tour?
The tour is designed for adults; it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or heart conditions.

What wines will be tasted?
Six premium wines from Crete, made from indigenous grape varieties, are sampled during the experience.

Is the lunch vegetarian or vegan?
The menu features local dishes with vegetables, greens, cheese, and meat. Special dietary requirements are not specified but can be clarified with the provider.

How scenic are the stops?
The stops include vineyard and olive grove views, with walks that showcase the beautiful landscape of Heraklion.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, passport or ID, and perhaps a camera to capture the scenic views.

Is this tour suitable for large groups?
The experience is private, ideal for small groups seeking a personalized outing.

This Heraklion Olive Oil and Wine Tour combines gastronomy, scenery, and local culture into a memorable day that highlights Crete’s rich culinary traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby