Relax Day: Thermal Lake, Olive Oil Tasting & Poseidon Temple Tour

Exploring the Relax Day: Thermal Lake, Olive Oil Tasting & Poseidon Temple Tour

This private day trip in Athens offers a well-rounded experience of Greece’s natural beauty and historical sites, priced at $277.82 per person. With a duration of approximately 8 to 9 hours, the tour combines a soothing thermal lake visit, an educational olive oil tasting, and a visit to the iconic Temple of Poseidon, all with private transportation and pickup from your Athens hotel.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its balance of relaxation, culture, and history, making it an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy a calm yet enriching day away from busy city streets. The tour’s group discounts and mobile ticket options offer flexibility and convenience, while the overall 5-star rating from three reviews confirms its quality.

While some sites, like the lake and the temple, require additional entrance fees, the guided olive oil tasting is included, giving you valuable insights into local Greek traditions. Note that lunch is not included, offering a chance to explore local tavernas on your own.

Key Points

• Private day trip with pickup from Athens hotel or designated spot
• Includes thermal lake swimming, olive oil tasting, and Poseidon Temple visit
• Duration of approximately 8-9 hours with flexible scheduling
• Cost of $277.82 per person, with options for group discounts
• All transportation is private and air-conditioned
• No archaeological guide included at sites, but knowledgeable driver provides commentary
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance

Journey Begins with Pickup from Your Athens Hotel

The tour starts with a convenient pickup from your hotel or chosen location in Athens. The private vehicle ensures comfort and ease as the driver takes you along the Athenian Riviera, passing scenic beaches and sea views. The journey to Vouliagmeni Lake offers a relaxing start, with the peaceful waters of the lake awaiting at the end of the drive.

The driver acts as your host, providing bottled waters and useful commentary, though they are not certified to guide at archaeological sites. This setup is ideal for those who prefer a more personalized experience without the crowds or large groups.

Visiting Lake Vouliagmeni: A Mineral-Rich Thermal Escape

The first stop is Lake Vouliagmeni, located in the heart of Greece’s Attica region. This scenic lake is famous for its mineral-rich, warm waters that stay at about 22°C year-round, making it suitable for swimming regardless of the season.

The main deck at the lake offers a peaceful environment for relaxing or taking a quick dip. The water temperature varies between 21°C and 29°C, providing a gentle, soothing experience. While admission to the lake is not included, the opportunity to swim here is a highlight for many visitors and a chance to enjoy the natural thermal benefits.

The lake’s unique feature is its fish, which nibble at skin, creating an unusual but popular sensation. The area is well-equipped without requiring reservations, making it accessible for a two-hour visit that balances relaxation with nature.

Olive Oil Tasting in the Oldest Olive Groves Near Athens

Following the lake, the tour continues with a two-hour olive oil tasting at Konstas Olive Oil. Here, olive oil specialists guide the group through the nuances of Greek olive oils, explaining how to identify different varieties and what makes each unique.

This experience includes tasting olive oils paired with snacks, offering both sensory delight and educational insight into Greece’s long-standing olive oil tradition. The admission to the tasting is included in the tour price, making it a valuable highlight for food lovers and those interested in Greek agriculture.

The tour provides a chance to learn about the cultivation and production of olive oil, enriching your understanding of this essential Greek product. It’s an excellent opportunity to sample high-quality oils that you might consider bringing home as souvenirs.

Exploring the 2500-Year-Old Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion

The next stop takes you to the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. Built during the Golden Age of Pericles, this Doric temple has stood for over 2500 years, dedicated to Poseidon, the god of the sea.

Located at the edge of Cape Sounion, the temple offers spectacular views of the Aegean Sea. The site’s dramatic location makes it one of the most photographed spots in Greece, with panoramic vistas that highlight the ancient monument’s grandeur.

The temple visit lasts about 1 hour and 20 minutes, giving ample time to explore the ruins and enjoy the sweeping coastal scenery. While entrance fees are not included, the experience of standing among ancient columns with the sea stretching infinitely beyond is a highlight worth considering.

Lunch and Return to Athens

After visiting the Poseidon Temple, the tour includes a lunch break in a traditional Greek taverna. Although lunch itself is not included in the price, this is an ideal opportunity to indulge in local Mezedes, small plates full of flavor, and enjoy authentic Greek cuisine.

The return journey takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, bringing you back to your Athens hotel or designated location. This relaxed pacing allows for a comfortable day, blending sightseeing with downtime.

Practical Details and Inclusions

The tour comes with private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort throughout the day. Bottled waters are provided, and the driver offers friendly, informative service, though they are not a certified archaeological guide.

Included in the price are the private olive oil tasting and the stop for lunch (which is not paid for). However, admission fees to Lake Vouliagmeni and the Temple of Poseidon are not included, so travelers should plan for those additional costs.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The combination of thermal lake swimming, olive oil tasting, and the ancient Poseidon temple makes this multi-faceted experience unique. The tour’s private setup allows for personalized pacing and stops, and the scenic drives along the Athenian coast enhance the overall enjoyment.

The positive review highlights the knowledgeable guide and the unusual experience of swimming in Vouliagmeni Lake, emphasizing the relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The tour’s flexibility and excellent value, especially for those wanting a mix of nature, food, and history, make it a compelling option.

The Best Fit for This Athens Experience

This Relax Day tour suits visitors who prefer a calm, personalized day outside the hustle of Athens’ busy archaeological sites. It’s especially ideal for those interested in natural thermal waters, Greek cuisine, and ancient history without strenuous activity or long guided tours.

Travelers who appreciate local food tastings and stunning coastal views will find this tour particularly rewarding. Because the tour involves walking at the sites and some mobility on uneven terrain at the temple, it’s best suited for those in good health and with moderate mobility.

Final Thoughts on the Athens Relax Day Tour

The combination of thermal lake swimming, olive oil tasting, and a visit to the Temple of Poseidon offers a well-rounded glimpse into Greece’s natural and cultural heritage. The private transportation and customizable pacing enhance comfort and flexibility, making it a practical choice for a stress-free day.

While additional entrance fees apply at key locations, the guide-driven experience and scenic coastal drives add value. This tour is most suitable for those seeking a relaxing, educational, and scenic escape from Athens’ urban scene, with enough time to enjoy each highlight at a leisurely pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, as it involves swimming and sightseeing, but keep in mind the walking at the temple and uneven terrain.

Are entrance fees included?
No, fees for Lake Vouliagmeni and the Temple of Poseidon are not included and need to be paid separately.

What should I bring for the lake swim?
Towels and swimwear are recommended; towels are available for purchase if forgotten.

Does the tour include a guide at the archaeological sites?
No, the driver is knowledgeable but not a certified guide; the experience is mainly guided by the driver.

How long is the drive from Athens to each site?
The drive from Athens to Vouliagmeni Lake, the olive grove, and Cape Sounion takes approximately 1 hour each way.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included but is available at local tavernas after the temple visit.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What is the total duration?
The tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours in total.

Is this tour accessible for people with limited mobility?
Moderate walking and uneven terrain at the sites may pose challenges; please plan accordingly.

How do I book this experience?
The tour can be booked online through the provider’s platform, with mobile tickets available for convenience.