The Cretan Way of Life at the mountains of Rethymno (Mylopotamos)

Authentic Cretan Living in the Mountains of Rethymno for $278.67

This 6 to 8-hour guided tour offers an immersive look into Crete’s traditional mountain life in the Mylopotamos region. Priced at $278.67 per person, it appeals to those seeking a genuine experience of local customs, food, and scenery away from tourist hotspots. The tour is limited to a maximum of six travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized atmosphere, with pickup and drop-off included to and from Rethymnon-area hotels.

It’s best suited for visitors with moderate physical fitness, as the visit involves walking through villages, gardens, and natural landscapes. The journey begins at 9:00am and unfolds through five distinct stops, each highlighting different elements of Cretan culture and rural traditions. Although the experience centers on authenticity, travelers should be aware that some stops involve outdoor activities, and the weather can influence the experience.

Key Points

• Small-group tour limited to six people guarantees personalized attention
• Visit historical monastery, meet local goatherd and beekeeper, and taste fresh honey
• Enjoy a home-cooked lunch with organic products in a mountain village
• Experience Cretan customs by strolling through village squares and orange groves
• Tour includes pickup and drop-off from Rethymnon hotels, with free cancellation up to 24 hours

Starting at the Monastery of the Holy Cross Vosakos in Lush Surroundings

The tour begins with a visit to the Monastery of the Holy Cross Vosakos, located about an hour’s drive from Rethymno’s center. This stone-built monastery stands out for its traditional architecture and serene environment filled with flowers, aromatic herbs, and trees. The last remaining nun inside welcomes visitors with a warm smile and offers a loukoumi treat, adding a personal touch.

This stop provides a calm setting to appreciate Cretan religious heritage and learn about its often turbulent history. The admission fee is included, and visitors can take time to explore the architecture and peaceful gardens before heading to the next adventure.

Meet the Goatherd and Witness Herding in Milopotamos

The next stop takes visitors to Milopotamos, where Mr. Andreas, a local shepherd, greets the group at the village entrance marked by three large trees. Here, guests learn about daily goat herding routines, milk production, and goat care from a man with decades of experience.

A memorable moment arrives when a herd of 100 goats streams out of their enclosure and heads toward the hills, demonstrating authentic mountain farming life. The stop lasts around 45 minutes and includes tasting Cretan appetizers like cheese, olives, and a glass of raki. The sight of the herd moving freely is described as powerful and memorable.

Beekeeping Demonstration and Honey Sampling with Eleni

At a different landscape in Milopotamos, Ms. Eleni, a traditional Cretan beekeeper, introduces visitors to honey production. She shows her beekeeping skills while wearing a protective uniform, though she emphasizes her close bond with her bees.

Guests get the chance to wear bee-keeping gear and watch her extract honey from the hive using her bare hands. This educational stop lasts about an hour, during which participants sample thyme honey directly from the comb, tasting the true flavor of local honey. There is no extra charge for this experience, and it’s praised for its informative and delicious nature.

Home-Cooked Mountain Lunch with Organic Local Products

Following the honey tasting, the tour proceeds to Apladiana, where Mr. Andreas and Mrs. Eleni invite guests into their mountain home. Their house offers stunning views of the village and is surrounded by flowers, herbs, and trees.

Here, visitors enjoy a two-hour meal featuring local organic products. The hosts open a bottle of wine and serve a delicious dessert such as cheese pies with honey. Guests can relax and engage in conversations about Cretan food traditions while savoring the soulful flavors of home-cooked cuisine.

Exploring the Village of Apladiana and Orange Grove

After lunch, the group visits Apladiana, one of the most ancient and traditional villages in the region. As they walk through the village square, they pass by orange trees, and if in season, pluck fresh oranges with their bare hands. The fresh scent of the oranges and the picturesque landscape create a sensory feast.

During this stop, the guide shares insights into Cretan wedding customs and village life. The walk lasts around 45 minutes, giving visitors a chance to embrace the slow pace and authentic atmosphere of mountain Crete.

The Unique Charm of the Mountain Villages and Local Customs

Throughout the tour, the focus remains on authentic Cretan customs and rural traditions. Visitors learn about wedding practices, see orange groves, and meet local hosts who share their everyday routines. The stops are designed to highlight what makes mountain life special and distinct from tourist areas.

The small group size ensures personalized interactions and the opportunity to ask questions. The tours are designed to respect and preserve local traditions, offering a genuine glimpse into Crete’s cultural heritage.

Logistics: Meeting Point and Transport

The tour departs at 9:00am from Eleftheríou Venizélou 39, Rethymno. The drop-off is back at the starting location or at Rethymnon-area hotels, making it convenient for those staying locally. The transport is arranged by the provider, ECO EVENTS, ensuring a comfortable ride through scenic mountain routes.

The tour is fully managed with mobile tickets, and group discounts may be available. It’s worth noting that cancellation is free if done more than 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if plans change.

The Intimate Group Experience and Guide Expertise

This tour is limited to a maximum of six travelers, which allows for a more intimate experience. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making each stop engaging and informative.

While the reviews mention different guides like Kostas, Vincent, and Dina, they all share a common trait: passion for Cretan culture and a desire to connect visitors with local life. The small-group setting ensures meaningful interactions and enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

The Food and Drink Highlights of the Tour

The local lunch prepared by the hosts features organic products and desserts like pitakia with honey. The raki tasting during the herding demonstration adds a traditional touch to the experience. Guests appreciate the quality of the home-cooked food, which is described as delicious and authentic.

The honey tasting, in particular, is frequently praised for its flavor and educational value. The wine served during lunch complements the meal and enhances the overall tasting experience.

Customer Satisfaction and Overall Value

With a perfect 5.0/5 rating based on 17 reviews, the tour consistently receives high praise for its authenticity, guide expertise, and scenic stops. Review comments highlight that the experience feels like a day with locals, far from tourist crowds, and rich in genuine moments.

Considering the small group size, personalized hospitality, and inclusion of meals and tastings, the value is justified despite the price of $278.67. This tour offers a rich, authentic immersion into Cretan mountain life, making it ideal for culture enthusiasts and those seeking slow-paced rural experiences.

The Sum Up: An Authentic Journey into Mountain Crete

This tour provides a genuine glimpse into Crete’s rural traditions, from monastery visits to goat herding and honey making. The personalized approach ensures visitors connect with local hosts, experience home-cooked meals, and learn about village customs firsthand.

While the experience involves outdoor stops and some walking, it’s well-suited for those with moderate physical fitness who want to explore local culture. The limited size and expert guides make this tour stand out among other Crete excursions, offering a memorable, authentic day in the mountains. Perfect for cultural explorers and food lovers looking to escape the busy tourist tracks and embrace the Cretan way of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes visits to a monastery, goat herding, honey tasting, a home-cooked mountain lunch, and a village stroll. Pickup and drop-off from Rethymnon hotels are also provided.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00am.

Are meals and tastings included?
Yes, the home-cooked lunch with organic products and honey tasting are part of the tour.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor walking and moderate physical activity is recommended. Light footwear is best for strolling through villages and gardens.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, but very young children may find some activities less engaging.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.