Chania: Milia Mountain Tour w/Lunch Olive Oil/Wine Tastings

If you’re planning a trip to Crete and want to escape the busy coastal spots, the Chania: Milia Mountain Tour offers a thoughtful look into the island’s rural charm. This full-day experience combines scenic drives, authentic tastes, and insights into the island’s age-old traditions of olive oil and wine making.

What really draws us to this tour are its small-group setup—limiting participants to just six—which means more personalized attention and a relaxed pace. We also love the variety of stops, from exploring a 3,000-year-old olive tree to wandering a mountain eco-village that feels worlds away from modern life.

One potential consideration is the dirt road drives—while they add to the adventure and access to remote spots, they might not suit everyone, especially those prone to motion sickness or looking for ultra-luxury comfort. But if you’re eager to see Crete’s less-touristed corners and enjoy a hands-on experience, this tour is hard to beat.

Overall, it’s a great fit if you enjoy cultural tasting experiences, scenic landscapes, and small-group excursions that go beyond typical sightseeing. It’s especially appealing for those who appreciate authentic local food, good wine, and a touch of adventure.

Key Points

• Authentic Crete Experience: Focus on traditional olive oil and wine tastings, along with visits to historic and scenic sites.
• Small-Group Comfort: Limited to just 6 participants, offering a more intimate and flexible experience.
• Diverse Itinerary: Includes visits to a 3,000-year-old olive tree, a mountain eco-village, and stunning gorge views.
• Value for Money: At $164, it covers transportation, meals, tastings, and guided insights, making it quite comprehensive.
• Off-Road Adventure: Expect scenic dirt roads and rugged drives that access locations unavailable by regular rental cars.
• Educational and Tasty: Learn about Cretan traditions while enjoying plentiful tastings and a delicious lunch.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Immersive Day in Crete’s Countryside

This tour from Chania offers a taste of Crete that’s quite different from lounging on beaches or exploring ancient ruins. It’s designed to take you into the island’s interior—where the landscape is rugged, the history palpable, and the flavors authentic.

The journey starts with a pickup from your hotel, covering locations from Platanias to Agia Marina. Once on the road, you’ll ride in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a driver-guide leading the way. The first stop is at Ano Vouves, home to what’s believed to be the oldest olive tree in Crete, possibly even the world. This tree, still bearing fruit after thousands of years, is a symbol of the island’s agricultural resilience and spiritual significance.

We love how this stop isn’t just about snapping photos but offers a real connection to the land and its history. The fact that the olive tree is still fruit-bearing after thousands of years makes it quite a sight—this isn’t just a tourist attraction, but a living piece of history. The reviews echo this sentiment, with visitors describing the visit as “a peaceful visit at the ancient olive tree,” and “touching the several thousand-years-old olive tree that still grows fruit.”

Next, you’ll explore a typical mountain farm where you can grab a coffee or fresh orange juice. It’s an excellent chance to unwind and soak in the mountain air, away from the busier tourist spots. This kind of authentic stop is appreciated by travelers looking for a genuine experience rather than just a photo op.

The wine and olive oil tastings at Anoskeli’s Olive Mill & Winery are a highlight. Here, you’ll sample organic extra virgin olive oil, served with warm bread and oregano—a simple yet delicious way to appreciate local craftsmanship. As one review notes, “the wines were perfect for the weather paired with cheese and some local produces,” which suggests a well-curated tasting session.

The winery is more than just about the liquid; it’s about understanding the tradition behind it. Visitors often remark on the engaging guides and the quality of the tastings, which include up to five different wines, each with its own story and character.

Then, it’s time for the real adventure—driving along dirt roads into Milia Mountain Retreat, a place that feels like stepping back in time. This agro-tourism complex has stone homes and no electricity, offering a stark contrast to modern life. It’s a spot where you can truly unwind, enjoy local desserts, and take in spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and Topolia Gorge.

The lunch at Milia is often praised for its authenticity and quality. One reviewer mentioned, “the food was beautiful, feeling very full and content on our drive back,” emphasizing the generous, well-prepared meal that fits perfectly into the day’s theme of local flavors.

The return drive provides more stunning scenery, with many noting the wild landscapes of Topolia Gorge—perfect for photos and just soaking it all in. The off-road parts of the trip add a sense of adventure, elevating this from a simple sightseeing tour to a memorable day out.

The Practicalities: What to Expect

This tour runs about 8 hours, with pickup starting in the morning (check availability for exact times). It’s a small-group experience, limited to 6 participants, which enhances the personal touch and allows guides to tailor the conversation to your interests.

The cost of $164 per person covers almost everything: transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, all tastings, lunch, drinks (including a round of wine or beer), bottled water, and a local guide. This makes it a good value considering the variety of experiences packed into the day.

Transportation is in a modern vehicle, but the dirt road drives mean you should be comfortable with some bumpy sections. Wear comfortable shoes, bring sunglasses, and a sun hat—Crete’s sun can be strong even in spring or fall.

Meal options include vegetarian choices, and it’s worth notifying the tour provider of any allergies or special diets in advance.

The tour offers cancellation flexibility—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—which is handy if your plans change unexpectedly.

What Travelers Say

The reviews are glowing, with a consistent theme: guides are knowledgeable, the scenery is stunning, and the tastings are excellent. Several mention how the tour offers a genuine slice of Cretan life and how the off-road rides are a fun bonus.

One traveler said, “This was an exceptional tour that we enjoyed very much,” highlighting the small-group vibe and the opportunity to see parts of Crete you’d never reach on your own. Many reviewers especially appreciated the local insights from guides like Stavros, Nicholas, and Vassilis, who shared stories and history along the way.

The wine and olive oil tastings receive high praise, with visitors calling the oils “the best we’ve ever had” and noting that the wines paired well with local cheeses and produce. The lunch at Milia is often described as “scrumptious,” with vegetarian options available, making it suitable for different dietary preferences.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re the kind of traveler who enjoys small, personalized experiences, appreciates authentic local food and drink, and doesn’t mind a bit of dirt road adventure, this tour could be just right. It’s particularly suited to those who want to explore Crete’s inland beauty and learn about its agricultural traditions firsthand.

It’s less ideal if you’re looking for ultra-luxurious comfort, have mobility concerns (due to off-road drives), or prefer a very strict schedule. Also, because it involves some walking and outdoor exploration, it’s best for those with good mobility and comfortable shoes.

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FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour runs approximately 8 hours, typically starting in the morning—specific start times depend on availability, so check ahead.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation, all tastings (olive oil, wine, and snacks), a traditional lunch, drinks including wine or beer, bottled water, a guide, and local taxes.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, and it’s recommended to inform the provider of dietary restrictions beforehand.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat are advised—Crete’s sun can be quite strong. Also, bring a camera for scenic photos.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, based on the nature of the stops and terrain.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

How many people are on the tour?
It’s limited to 6 participants, fostering a more intimate experience.

What about the off-road parts?
Expect scenic dirt roads that access remote sites, adding a touch of adventure and access to hidden spots.

Do I need to worry about food allergies?
It’s best to inform the tour provider of any allergies or dietary needs in advance, so they can accommodate.

Final Thoughts

The Chania: Milia Mountain Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Crete’s rural life, from ancient olive trees to local wines, combined with breathtaking scenery. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want more than just the beaches—those craving authentic tastes and stories that reveal the island’s true character.

While some may find the dirt road drives a bit bumpy, the trade-off is access to locations you won’t see on standard tours. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge shine through, making the day both educational and enjoyable.

If you’re after a personalized, food-and-wine-focused experience that takes you into Crete’s countryside, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s best suited for curious travelers eager to explore beyond the usual, with a relaxed pace that allows you to soak in the scenery and flavors without feeling rushed.

Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or simply someone seeking a different side of Crete, this tour delivers a genuinely memorable day amidst stunning landscapes and authentic local culture.

You can check availability for your dates here: