Rethymno: Private Winery & Olive Oil Tasting Tour with Lunch

Rethymno: Private Winery & Olive Oil Tasting Tour with Lunch — An Honest Look

If you’re planning a trip to Crete and want to get a genuine taste of the island’s culinary traditions, this Private Winery & Olive Oil Tasting Tour might be just what you’re looking for. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on the detailed reviews and info available, it’s clear this experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into Crete’s local flavors, scenery, and craftsmanship.

What really shines about this tour are the passionate guides and the authentic tastings—you’re not just sipping wine or olive oil; you’re learning what makes Cretan produce so special. The tour also includes a traditional Greek lunch, making it a satisfying, full experience.

However, it’s worth noting that pickup is only included if you’re within 12 km of Rethymno city, which could be a consideration if you’re staying farther out. Also, this is a tour best suited for those who enjoy wine, olive oil, and scenic village visits—it’s not geared toward kids or travelers with mobility issues.

This experience is ideal for anyone who appreciates food-focused outings, wants to learn about local production methods, or simply enjoys relaxing in beautiful surroundings. If that sounds like your kind of day, there’s a lot to love here.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic tastings of virgin olive oil, multiple wines, and Greek spirit options like limoncello or raki
• Knowledgeable guides that enrich the experience with local insights
• Scenic village visits offering spectacular views and a taste of local life
• Inclusive lunch with vegetarian options, served at a traditional setting
• Limited pickup radius—only within 12 km of Rethymno city
• Private group setting for a personalized experience
• Duration is about 5 hours, perfect for a relaxed day
• Value for money with positive reviews praising the quality and depth of experience

Exploring the Tour: What You Can Expect

This tour is a solid choice if you’re after a mix of educational, scenic, and culinary experiences. It hits a nice balance for travelers who want to get off the beaten path without feeling rushed.

Starting Point: Olive Oil Mill

Your journey begins at the Kanakis olive oil mill. Here, you’ll learn about the process of making genuine Cretan virgin olive oil. You get to see how the oil is produced from start to finish, guided by experts who explain each step in simple, engaging terms. The highlight? Tasting the fresh, high-quality olive oil, which will likely change how you think about this common ingredient.

Many reviews mention the value of this part—“We learned all about olive oil production, and the tasting was exceptional,” says one traveler. The experience isn’t just about the taste but understanding the craftsmanship behind it.

Next Stop: Dourakis Winery

The tour continues at one of the region’s top wineries, Dourakis. Here, a guided tour lasts around 30 minutes, focusing on Cretan winemaking traditions. You’ll get to see the vineyard, learn about local grape varieties, and understand what makes Cretan wines distinct.

Afterward, you’ll move into the tasting room, where you can sample up to five different wines. Based on reviews, the wine selection is quite good—“the wine tasting was a highlight, with a variety of local options to enjoy,” notes one guest. The guide’s explanations bring the wines to life, making each sip more meaningful.

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Village Visit & Lunch

Depending on the weather and day, the tour concludes in either Nipos or Vryses, charming villages with beautiful natural views. Here, you’ll enjoy a traditional Greek lunch, which often features local dishes and vegetarian options. The reviews consistently praise the quality of the meal—“The lunch was delicious, with fresh flavors and a lovely setting,” many say.

Lunch provides a nice break and a chance to soak up the local atmosphere. It’s a relaxed, unhurried part of the day, giving you time to reflect on what you’ve learned and tasted so far.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and knowledge as some of the best parts of this experience. Guests frequently mention guides like Nora, Maria, and Vincent, who go above and beyond to make the day special. You’ll appreciate their insights into Crete’s history, culture, and food, making the outing more than just a tasting.

Plus, the scenic vineyard and village views are genuinely beautiful, giving you a break from the busy tourist spots and a chance to see authentic rural Crete.

Quality & Value

At $296 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option but is widely praised for good value. You’re getting a private group experience—which means more personalized attention—and a well-rounded day that combines learning, tasting, and sightseeing.

Many travelers mention how they didn’t feel rushed and appreciated the flexibility and pace. One review summed it up: “We experienced the best Crete trip ever,” thanks in part to how the guide tailored the experience.

Drawbacks & Considerations

The main thing to keep in mind is the pickup restriction—if you’re staying outside Rethymno within the 12 km radius, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation or pay more for pickup if possible. Also, because the experience involves walking around villages and vineyards, it might not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

Pregnant women aren’t advised to participate, mainly because of the wine tastings, but the olive oil and scenic parts are accessible. The tour lasts around five hours, so if you’re tight on time or prefer shorter outings, this might feel a tad long.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

If you’re curious about local food production, enjoy wine tasting, or want a relaxing day exploring Crete’s countryside, then this tour is a fantastic pick. It’s especially suited for those who value guided experiences with knowledgeable hosts and prefer private groups over large, noisy tours.

Travelers who love to learn about the origins of what they eat and drink will find this especially rewarding. And if you’re traveling with someone who appreciates scenic views combined with culinary delights, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, if you’re staying in Rethymno city and within 12 km. Otherwise, there’s an extra charge, so check with the provider.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 5 hours, giving enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price? You get hotel pickup and drop-off, an olive oil tasting, traditional Greek coffee, a guided winery tour, wine tastings, and a delicious lunch.

Can I book the tour with flexible payment? Yes. You can reserve now and pay later, which is helpful if your plans aren’t set in stone.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s not specifically designed for kids, mainly because of the wine tastings and walking involved. It’s best for adult travelers.

Are there vegetarian options for lunch? Yes, vegetarian options are included, and many guests praise the quality of the meal.

What language is the tour offered in? The tour is led in English, French, or Greek, depending on your preference.

Are the guides knowledgeable? Absolutely. Many reviews mention guides like Nora, Maria, Vincent, and Hector as being friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging.

Is this a private tour? Yes, it’s organized for private groups, which allows for a more personalized, flexible experience.

Final thoughts

This Rethymno private wine and olive oil tour offers a genuine glimpse into Crete’s culinary traditions, set in scenic villages and vineyards. It’s a well-paced, informative, and tasty experience that many travelers have celebrated for its quality, guides, and authenticity.

While it’s priced higher than some other tours, the personalized nature and depth of the experience seem to make it worth the investment. It’s best suited for those who love wine, olive oil, and local culture, and who want a relaxed, engaging day out.

If you’re after a taste of what makes Crete special—beyond the beaches and busy towns—this experience will likely leave you with good memories, great photos, and a new appreciation of local craftsmanship.

You can check availability for your dates here: