Kournas Lake Argiroupolis and olive oil factory

If you’re planning a trip to Crete and looking for an experience that mixes nature, culture, and local craftsmanship, this tour offers a solid option. It’s designed for those who want to go beyond the usual tourist spots and get a taste of authentic Crete. The tour covers some of the island’s most scenic locations, including Kournas Lake, the waterfalls of Argiroupolis, and a traditional olive oil mill.

We really appreciate that this experience includes stunning natural sights coupled with storytelling about Crete’s olive oil heritage. Plus, the opportunity to relax with a swim by the lake is a definite highlight. On the flip side, some travelers have mentioned a few issues, like feeling pressured to buy at the olive oil factory or minor communication hiccups. Still, overall, it’s well-suited for those curious about Crete’s diverse landscape and local traditions, especially if you enjoy a mix of scenic stops and cultural insights.

One thing to keep in mind is that lunch isn’t included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal at the lake or in the nearby taverns. This tour is perfect if you prefer a flexible, small-group vibe and want to see a few of Crete’s highlights without spending too much — it offers genuine value for the price.

If you’re after a laid-back yet informative day out that balances nature, history, and local flavor, this tour might just fit the bill. It’s especially appealing if you like exploring at your own pace rather than rushing from place to place.

Key Points

• Great for nature lovers seeking scenic spots like Kournas Lake and Argiroupolis waterfalls.
• Educational experience at the olive oil mill, with insights into Cretan production methods.
• Flexible stops with time to swim, explore, and enjoy local snacks.
• Affordable price point offers good value for the variety of locations visited.
• Guides with good knowledge and friendly attitude, appreciated by travelers.
• Potential for sales pitches at the olive oil factory, as some felt the push to buy.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at Markidis Travel office in Rethymno at 10:00 am. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that whisks you around the island’s highlights. The group size is capped at 49 travelers, but most reviews point to a relatively intimate, friendly atmosphere, especially if you’re in a smaller group.

Kournas Lake: The Highlight of the Day

Kournas Lake is often called Crete’s only freshwater lake, and it truly feels like a little slice of paradise. As you arrive, expect to see calm, clear waters fringed with lush greenery. We loved how the tour includes about two hours of free time here, giving you plenty of space to soak in the views, take photos, or simply relax with a snack.

Many reviews rave about the stunning scenery and peaceful vibe. Some mention that the lake’s beauty makes it hard to tear yourself away. Plus, the opportunity to swim in the lake is a great way to beat the heat, especially on a warm day. You’ll also find local vendors and small taverns around, perfect for grabbing a refreshing drink or a quick bite.

Argiroupolis Waterfalls: Nature’s Refreshing Touch

Next, you’ll visit Argiroupolis, a quaint village famous for its beautiful waterfalls. The stop lasts about an hour and a half, giving you enough time to explore the lush surroundings and snap some photos. The waterfalls are particularly captivating, with water cascading over rocks and creating a calming soundscape.

Travelers often comment on how the waterfalls bring the village alive, with vibrant greenery and a cool breeze. Some reviews, like Mandy B’s, mention that this is “an amazing day,” praising the guide and driver for making the experience seamless.

Olive Oil Mill: Learning Crete’s Liquid Gold

No trip to Crete is complete without a taste of its world-renowned olive oil. The tour’s first stop is at a local oil mill, where you get a behind-the-scenes look at how Crete’s olive oil is produced. The process is fascinating, and the guide’s explanations help you appreciate what makes Cretan olive oil special.

However, it’s worth noting that some travelers feel the sales pitch at this stop can be a bit aggressive. Nicolas S’s review mentions that the guide “tried a little too hard to get us to buy stuff,” and even claimed that Cretan olive oil had won a “15-year-old” competition, which isn’t quite accurate. Still, the opportunity to sample fresh olive oil and learn about its process is genuinely interesting for most.

Additional Notes

• The tour is about 6.5 hours long, making it a manageable day without feeling rushed.
• While lunch isn’t included, you’ll find plenty of taverns around Kournas Lake to enjoy local Cretan dishes.
• The tour includes pickup and drop-off, which makes it convenient, especially if you’re staying in Rethymno.
• The price of around $28.66 per person provides good value, considering the multiple stops and transportation.

Why This Tour Works

You’ll love the diverse scenery—from the tranquil lake to the cascading waterfalls—and the insider insights into olive oil production, which is a cornerstone of Cretan life. The guide’s knowledge and friendly approach earn praise, making the experience more personal and engaging. The stops are well-paced, giving you enough time to explore and relax, which is key if you’re not into rush tours.

The scenic stops are genuinely beautiful, and the chance to swim in Kournas Lake is an unforgettable experience for many travelers. The opportunity to sample local delicacies at the taverns enhances the authentic feel of your day out.

That said, some travelers mention feeling pressured at the olive oil factory to make purchases, so if you’re sensitive to sales tactics, you’ll want to approach that part casually. The communication issues noted in some reviews, like the French-language challenges, are minor but worth keeping in mind if you prefer perfectly clear guidance.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits nature lovers, curious travelers, and those wanting a relaxed day exploring Crete’s outdoors. If you enjoy learning about local traditions and prefer a flexible, small-group feel, you’ll find this tour quite satisfying.

It’s also good for travelers who want a budget-friendly option that combines scenic beauty with cultural insights. However, if you’re looking for a gourmet meal included or prefer more structured guided experiences, you might want to consider other options.

This tour may not be ideal if you have mobility issues, as some stops involve walking around waterfalls or uneven terrain. Also, if you dislike sales pitches at attractions, be aware of that aspect at the olive oil mill.

FAQ

Is there a pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from designated meeting points, making it convenient to get started without worrying about transportation.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops and travel time.

Is lunch included in the price?
No, lunch isn’t included. However, you’ll find plenty of local taverns near Kournas Lake to enjoy a meal or snacks.

Can I swim at Kournas Lake?
Yes, you’ll have around two hours at the lake to relax, take photos, or enjoy a swim.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and warm weather is best. Don’t forget your swimwear if you want to swim in the lake.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
According to many reviews, the guides are well-informed and friendly, though some mention minor communication issues.

Is this suitable for children?
The tour’s nature and stops make it suitable for most ages, especially if your kids enjoy outdoor activities and scenic views.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Refunds are straightforward if you cancel in time.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a neat snapshot of Crete’s natural beauty and local craftsmanship, all at a reasonable price. It’s especially good if you prefer a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities to enjoy scenery and learn about olive oil production. The guides tend to be well-rated for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more engaging.

While there’s some pressure at the olive oil factory to make purchases, most travelers find the stops worth it for the views and insights. The swimming and scenic landscapes stand out as major perks, and the flexible timing allows you to enjoy each location at your own pace.

This experience is best suited for travelers wanting a balance of nature, culture, and local flavor, with enough free time to relax and explore on your own. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable way to see some of Crete’s highlights without breaking the bank.

Hope this helps you decide if this tour fits your Crete trip. Safe travels and enjoy your adventure on this beautiful island!