Gourmet Journey: 12-Course Lunch, Wine Tasting & Culinary Session

If you’re planning a trip to Rhodes, you might be on the lookout for experiences that go beyond just sightseeing — something that offers a taste of local culture in a delicious, engaging way. The Gourmet Journey tour promises just that: a combination of vibrant wine tasting, authentic Greek cooking, and a sumptuous 11-course lunch in the beautiful countryside.

From what travelers say, it’s a well-rounded experience packed into about four hours — perfect if you’re after an immersive, hands-on introduction to Rhodian cuisine and wine. Two things we particularly like? First, the chance to see a real family-run vineyard and distillery, and second, the opportunity to learn how to cook traditional dishes yourself.

However, one thing to consider is the timing — the tour lasts around four hours, which is great for a full-bodied experience, but you’ll want to plan your day accordingly, especially if you have other activities booked. This tour is particularly suited for food and wine lovers, those curious about Greek culture, or anyone who enjoys a good culinary story combined with tasting.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: It combines vineyard visits, distillery tours, and cooking classes, offering a full taste of Rhodes’ culinary scene.
• Educational & Entertaining: Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making learning about wine and cooking genuinely fun.
• Delicious Food & Wine: Sampling 11 traditional dishes paired with local wines provides great value for the price.
• Convenient Logistics: Pickup service is offered, and the tour is structured to fit comfortably within a half-day.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Small family vineyard setting, often praised for its intimacy and charm.
• Flexible Cancellation: Full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting at Rhodes Port: Your Gateway to Rhodes’ Countryside

The tour kicks off at Rhodes cruise terminal — a spot many travelers will recognize as their point of arrival. The guides or drivers are already waiting to greet you, making the start seamless. From here, you’ll enjoy a half-hour scenic drive through the Greek landscape, heading towards the countryside where the vineyard is located.

Travel reviews mention the journey as being “set to be as enjoyable as the destination itself,” which hits the right tone. The drive offers some lovely views, and you’ll get a preview of the lush, rustic charm that makes Rhodes so inviting outside its beaches.

Vineyard & Distillery Tour: More Than Just Wine Tasting

Once at the vineyard, the real fun begins. The tour doesn’t just showcase wine — it also includes a quick look at how distillation turns molasses into souma and tsipouro, offering insight into local spirits. This part is perfect for those interested in the craftsmanship behind Greek drinks.

Travelers love the small family-run vibe of the vineyard — one reviewer notes, “Jason and his family were warm and welcoming.” The vineyard is described as beautifully kept, with a genuine local atmosphere. As you walk among the vines and learn about production, you’ll start to appreciate the care that goes into every bottle.

Wine Tasting: Savoring the Flavors of Rhodes

The tasting component is particularly well-regarded. Guests get to analyze how vinification affects the final product — not just sipping, but tasting with purpose. The wines are consistently praised for being delicious, with some reviewers describing the selection as unbelievably brilliant.

This part of the tour is more than just sipping; it’s about understanding how the climate, grapes, and process influence taste. One guest said, “The guide explained how the process shapes the wine,” which shows the educational aspect is well executed.

Cooking Class: Making Greek Dishes with Local Flavors

After the wine, you’ll move on to the culinary session. The host joins in to teach you how to prepare traditional Rhodes dishes like dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), eggplant salad, and taziki. Many reviews highlight how organized and fun this part is, with participants actively involved.

The hands-on nature makes it more than just watching; you get to follow instructions and create something authentic. Guests often mention how fun and interactive it was, with some noting they received recipes to recreate at home — a nice bonus.

The 11-Course Greek Lunch: A Feast for the Senses

Finally, you settle into your seats for a generous 11-course meal paired with unlimited wine. The variety of dishes, from appetizers to mains, showcases Rhodes’ culinary diversity. Travelers rave about the fabulous, flavorful food and the generous pours of local wines.

One reviewer states, “The lunch was fabulous, and the wine was perfect,” emphasizing how this part rounds out the experience with delicious food and drink. It’s a true feast that leaves no one hungry, and many find it to be great value considering the amount of food and drink included.

Practical Details & Considerations

Duration & Timing

The tour lasts about four hours, starting near the port and returning in time for your cruise or next activity. The timing is tailored to fit ship schedules, making it quite convenient if you’re in Rhodes for a cruise day.

Transportation & Logistics

One of the highlighted perks is the pickup service — a driver will pick you up from the port or your hotel, making the whole experience stress-free. The drive to the vineyard takes around half an hour, which is a comfortable window for travelers to relax and take in the scenery.

Group Size & Atmosphere

With a maximum of 999 travelers, the tour is designed to be intimate and personal, especially considering many reviews mention favorable interactions with the hosts. The small family spirit shines through, making it a warm, welcoming environment.

Cost & Value

At around $91.24 per person, this experience offers a lot: vineyard and distillery tours, wine tastings, a cooking class, and a full meal — all in four hours. Guests consistently say they find it excellent value, especially given the quality of the food and drinks.

Cancellation & Weather

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible if your plans change. Since it requires good weather, if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the friendly family hosts. Don_M called it “entertaining and educational,” highlighting the humor and warmth of the guide. Donna_N appreciated how Jason and his mom interacted throughout, creating a genuine, familial feel.

Food and wine receive glowing comments. Jenny_L enjoyed learning to make three Greek dishes and then savoring an 11-course meal with wines. George_L simply called it “great”, and Jill_A mentioned the “share of extensive knowledge” combined with great wine and delicious food.

A few reviewers mentioned that while the food class was fun, it might seem “a little pointless” for some, but overall, the consensus is very positive. The wine tasting and the meal are often highlighted as highlights.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Rhodes’ culinary and wine traditions. It’s ideal for foodies and wine lovers eager to learn and taste in a relaxed, friendly setting. If you’re seeking an authentic, local experience with a touch of education and lots of good eats, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding.

However, if you’re looking for a more adventurous or outdoorsy experience, this might not be your first choice. The focus here is on culinary culture and tasting, rather than physical activity or sightseeing.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes a pickup service from your hotel or the cruise port, making the experience easy and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes around four hours, including vineyard visit, cooking class, and lunch.

What’s included in the price?
You get a vineyard and distillery tour, wine tasting, a cooking class, and an 11-course Greek lunch with unlimited wine.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The tour is generally designed for adults, especially given the wine tasting. It’s best suited for those interested in culinary experiences rather than family entertainment.

Do I need to prepare anything before the tour?
Just arrive on time; the rest is organized. Check your email for pickup details 12 hours before the tour.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or storms, you will be offered another date or a full refund.

Wrapping It Up

If you’re after an experience that combines learning, tasting, and a taste of Rhodes’ local life, this tour hits the mark. It offers a genuine look at Rhodian wine and cuisine in a warm, welcoming setting. The knowledgeable guides and delicious food make it a memorable day, especially if you’re keen to bring home some new recipes and wine tips.

While it’s not geared for families or those seeking adventure, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone who loves to indulge in good food and drink while learning about local traditions. For the price, it delivers a rich, satisfying glimpse into Rhodes’ culinary soul.

If that sounds like your kind of day, this tour might just be the highlight of your trip.