Explore Shepherds Hut and Cheese Making Process

If you’re planning a trip to Crete and want a taste of the island’s traditional lifestyle, this Shepherds Hut and Cheese Making Tour from Rethymnon might just be a good fit. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines scenic drives, local food, and hands-on activities—perfect for those who love learning about local culture beyond the usual tourist spots.

What really caught our eye—and what others seem to appreciate—is the chance to visit a honey factory with tastings, and the opportunity to see how cheese is made in a real shepherd’s hut, or Mitato. Plus, the views—especially of Psiloritis Peak—are genuinely stunning.

One thing to keep in mind: this tour runs around 6 to 7 hours, so it’s a decent chunk of your day, and it’s not recommended for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues. If you’re after a relaxed, educational adventure with a small group, this could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Authentic Crete Experience: Focuses on genuine local traditions like honey, cheese, and shepherd life.
• Small Group: Usually up to 6 or 8 people, making it personal and immersive.
• Scenic & Cultural Highlights: Includes visits to a honey museum, a monastery, and a shepherd’s hut with panoramic views.
• Tasty & Informative: Features traditional Cretan lunch and cheese tasting, with knowledgeable guides.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, plus transportation in premium off-road vehicles.
• Considerations: Not suited for children under 7, pregnant women, or those with certain mobility or health issues.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting with Honey at Apithano Honey Museum

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Apithano Honey Factory. If you love the idea of tasting honey straight from the source, this stop is a real treat. The guided tour is complemented by tastings, so you get to sample a variety of local honeys—something we agree is worth the journey on its own. One reviewer mentioned, “plus a fab treat of raki and cookies,” which sounds like a perfect Cretan snack. It’s a quick, 45-minute stop that sets a sweet tone for the day.

Driving through the lush landscapes of Milopotamos and traditional villages, you’ll get a taste of rural Crete. The scenery here is captivating, especially if you enjoy seeing how locals live outside the bustling tourist hubs.

Discovering Halepa Monastery

Next, the tour takes you to Halepa Monastery, which offers more than just a religious or historical experience. The views of Crete’s peaks and valleys from this spot are stunning, and it’s a chance to learn about its role as a refuge for rebels during civil unrest. It’s a brief stop, but the kind that leaves you with great photo opportunities and a bit of quiet reflection. One reviewer called the views “breathtaking,” which pretty much sums it up.

Meeting the Shepherd and Cheese Making in Axos

The highlight for many is the visit to the Mitato, the traditional shepherd’s hut. The off-road drive to this remote spot is part of the fun, especially if you’re into scenic, bumpy rides. Once there, you’ll see cheese being made live—an authentic experience that lets you understand the importance of shepherding in Crete. You can expect to see goats, wild eagles, and maybe even catch the cheese-making process.

A reviewer noted, “the goat milking was amusing and the farm interesting,” which hints at how hands-on and genuine this part of the tour is. It’s a chance to see traditional practices and taste fresh cheese, often straight from the source.

Authentic Cretan Lunch in Axos

After all the activity, a laid-back stop at a local tavern in Axos provides a proper Cretan meal. The lunch features traditional platters, which are well-loved by guests for their flavor and authenticity. One guest mentioned the “delicious and tasty” food, and the views from the restaurant are described as “outstanding.” It’s a great way to relax, chat with your fellow travelers, and enjoy the genuine hospitality of Crete.

Wrap-up with a Scenic Drive Back

The tour winds down with a leisurely drive back, stopping briefly for photos at Axos Gorge and Vultures’ lookout. The off-road parts and panoramic views make it a memorable final impression.

What Travelers Say

People who’ve taken this trip tend to be very happy with it. One reviewer called it a “lovely tour with a great guide,” emphasizing the beauty of the stops and the quality of the lunch. Another appreciated the knowledgeable guide, the interesting farm experience, and the delicious food—especially the local cheese and raki.

The small-group aspect makes the experience intimate, and the off-road vehicle adds a sense of adventure. The fact that the trip is quite full, with about 6 to 8 people, means you get a personalized touch without feeling crowded.

Analyzing the Value

At around $115 per person, this tour offers a lot in terms of cultural insights and scenic beauty. The inclusion of hotel pickup, transportation in quality off-road vehicles, lunch, and visits to multiple sites makes it a solid deal for those interested in authentic Cretan traditions. The guided cheese-making and honey tastings are particularly memorable and offer a tangible connection to local life.

Of course, it’s important to note the duration—nearly a full day—and the physical requirements. If you’re comfortable with some bumpy rides and walking, you’ll likely find this a rewarding experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy learning by doing and appreciate local food and scenery. It’s ideal if you’re keen on seeing traditional rural life rather than just touring historical sites.

However, if you’re traveling with very young children, pregnant, or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. The tour explicitly states it’s not recommended for kids under 7, and the off-road parts may be challenging for some.

Final Thoughts

This Shepherds Hut and Cheese Making tour offers a wholesome introduction to Crete’s rural side. The mix of scenic drives, authentic food, and engaging activities makes it a memorable way to spend a day. It balances education with leisure, providing plenty of photo opportunities and chances to connect with local traditions.

If you’re after a genuine, small-group experience that showcases Crete’s natural beauty and cultural authenticity, this trip should definitely be on your list. The knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas seem to leave most travelers satisfied and eager to recommend it.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour provides free hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start your day without extra hassle.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 6 to 7 hours, giving you a full day of exploring without feeling rushed.

What vehicles are used?
Premium off-road vehicles, typically 7 or 9-seaters, are driven by friendly, multilingual guides.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Not recommended for children under 7, mainly due to the off-road rides and activity nature. Also, there are no baby seats available.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, provided the weather is good and the minimum number of travelers is met.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers hotel pickup/drop-off, transportation, cheese-making experience, honey museum visit, lunch, and taxes and insurance.

Are there any extra costs?
You may want to bring extra for beverages at the tavern or souvenirs, as coffee, beers, and refreshments aren’t included.

Is the tour accessible for mobility issues?
It’s not particularly suitable for those with mobility or back problems, as some parts involve walking or off-road driving.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes for outdoor activity, and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially for the cheese farm and scenic stops.

How do reviews rate this tour?
It’s highly praised, with a perfect 5-star rating from two reviews, highlighting the guide, scenic stops, and delicious lunch.

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to connect with Crete’s traditional side — complete with scenic vistas, tasty food, and real local experiences — this tour offers a solid option. Just remember its physical demands and time commitment, and it could turn into a highlight of your trip.