Off road experience at the roads of wine

Introduction: A Unique Way to Explore Greek Wines and Scenery

If you’re looking for a different kind of day out beyond the usual Athens sightseeing, this off-road experience at the roads of wine promises a mix of scenic landscapes and wine tasting that’s hard to beat. While I haven’t done it myself, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary make it sound like a genuinely memorable adventure.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines off-road driving in a sturdy 4×4 vehicle with a relaxed, educational visit to a winery museum. Plus, the fact that it offers hassle-free pickup from your hotel means you can jump right into the fun without worrying about logistics. On the flip side, you might want to consider the 5-hour duration if you’re not into longer outings or if you prefer a more structured, city-based experience.

This tour seems perfect for those who enjoy nature, wine, and a bit of adventure—especially if you want to see a different side of Athens that’s away from the crowds. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just after a scenic escape, this could be just the experience you’re after.

Key Points

• Scenic off-road drive through vineyards, olive groves, and lush vegetation near Marathon Lake
• Educational visit to the Kostas Lazaridis Wine Museum and aging cellars
• Tastings of two wines and one balsamic vinegar for a taste of local flavors
• Hassle-free pickup from your Athens hotel or a central location
• Approximately 5 hours total, making it a manageable half-day experience
• Private tour setting ensures a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: From Your Athens Hotel to Marathon Lake

The experience kicks off with pickup from your hotel or a central location in Athens. The tour uses specialized 4×4 vehicles, which tells you right away that you’ll be venturing off the beaten path—think dirt tracks, vineyards, and scenic countryside rather than smooth city streets.

The drive takes you about 20 kilometers outside Athens, heading toward the area surrounding Marathon Lake. This destination is often overlooked but offers stunning views and a peaceful vibe, surrounded by olive trees, dense vegetation, and small rivers. It’s a refreshing escape that’s on par with Greece’s more famous sights but much less crowded.

Traveling in a sturdy 4×4 through the countryside offers a thrill that city tours just can’t match. We loved how the landscape changes from urban grey to lush green, setting the perfect scene for wine tasting and relaxation.

Stop 1: Marathon Lake — Nature and Scenic Views

Your first stop is a photo-friendly spot at Marathon Lake. Here, travelers get a chance to breathe in the fresh air and appreciate the natural beauty of the Attica region. The area is described as “nothing to envy from the rest of Greece”, indicating its genuine charm despite being less touristy.

While the landscape itself is stunning, the highlight is the tranquility away from Athens’ hustle. The setting encourages you to slow down and enjoy the moment, making it perfect for nature lovers and those wanting some peaceful downtime.

Stop 2: Domaine Costa Lazaridi S.A. — Wine & Balsamic Vinegar Tasting

Next, the journey takes you to a wine museum and winery called Kostas Lazaridis and Oinotria land. Here, a knowledgeable guide walks you through the stages of wine production, explaining the process in an approachable way. The tour includes a visit to the wine cellars, where you can see barrels aging red wines and bottles stored in special cellars—an insight into what makes Greek wines special.

What really makes this part stand out is the tasting session—you’ll sample two wines and a balsamic vinegar, which adds a delicious touch to the experience. This isn’t just a quick sip; it’s an opportunity to really savor local flavors, complemented perhaps by some traditional snacks or tapas (though not included).

The opportunity to learn about local wine and vinegar production gives the experience a meaningful edge—more than just a tasting, it’s an educational peek into Greek culinary traditions.

What You Get for the Price

At $178.22 per person, this tour appears to be quite reasonable given the comprehensive experience. It includes all fees and taxes, plus snacks—a nice touch that indicates the operator wants you to relax and enjoy the day.

While the price doesn’t include alcoholic beverages or lunch, the tasting experience itself offers a good sampling of local products, making it a worthwhile investment for wine lovers or those curious about Greek flavors.

Considering the 5-hour duration, the personalized nature of the private tour, and the scenic drive, the cost seems fair, especially for travelers seeking a relaxed, immersive experience outside of Athens.

The Experience You Can Expect

The off-road drive is the key feature here. You’ll love the way the 4×4 vehicle takes you through vineyards, olive groves, and along small rivers—it’s a fun way to see the countryside without the tiring effort of hiking or biking. The route is designed to give you beautiful vistas and a sense of adventure.

The Marathon Lake scenery is a highlight, with reviewers mentioning how it feels like a “superb walk through Greece’s beautiful landscapes”. The drive itself seems to be a hit, especially with travelers who enjoy nature and scenic views, as one reviewer noted.

The visit to the wine museum is educational but also relaxed. The guide sharing details about wine production, aging, and types of spirits adds depth to the tasting, making it more than just sipping wine. You’ll see barrels of aging wine and learn about Greek wine traditions, which might be fascinating if you’re into oenology or simply want to know more about what you’re drinking.

The tasting experience is typically two wines and one vinegar, allowing you to appreciate different flavors and styles. The wines are high quality, and the vinegar adds an interesting twist—especially if you enjoy culinary explorations.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Reviewers consistently give this tour a perfect 5-star rating. One traveler shared that they found the landscapes to be “very beautiful” and appreciated the friendly guide who adored French travelers—highlighting the personal touch.

Another review called it a “superb walk” through Greek landscapes, emphasizing how distant from tourist crowds it felt, yet just as scenic as more famous destinations.

The inclusion of snacks and the private setting makes this feel intimate and tailored—great for those who prefer a more relaxed, personalized experience.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour starts at 10:00 am, giving you a good half-day window for exploring the countryside.
• The pickup service makes logistics simpler, especially if you’re staying in Athens.
• Most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for those comfortable with a 5-hour experience—no strenuous activity required.
• Weather matters—if the weather turns poor, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds offered.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers, scenic scenery seekers, and anyone wanting a break from the city. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy off-road adventures and are curious about Greek wines and vinegar.

Travelers who appreciate personalized, private tours will find this more rewarding than crowded group outings. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and educational escape from Athens, this could be just the ticket.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For anyone eager to combine nature, local culture, and wine tasting in a relaxing setting, this tour offers a compelling package. The scenic drive coupled with the educational visit to a wine museum makes it more than just a tasting session; it’s a mini adventure that feels genuine and unhurried.

The scenery around Marathon Lake is genuinely lovely, making it a perfect photo op and a chance to unwind. While it’s not a full-day experience, the 5-hour length is just right for a leisurely escape that fits into a travel itinerary without overwhelming your day.

The overall value lies in the combination of scenic drives, personalized guidance, and quality tastings—a thoughtful way to deepen your understanding of Greek wines while enjoying stunning landscapes. This tour would suit those who love a bit of adventure, appreciate good wine, and want a peaceful break from sightseeing.

If you’re after a taste of authentic Greece, away from the crowds but close enough to enjoy the local flavors and scenery, this off-road wine adventure could be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from your hotel or a central Athens location is provided in a private 4×4 vehicle, making the journey smooth and comfortable.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the drive, sightseeing, and tastings without feeling rushed.

Can I participate if I’m not a wine drinker?
While the main focus is on wine and vinegar tasting, the scenic drive and the natural surroundings make the experience enjoyable even if you prefer not to sample alcohol.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally designed for most travelers, but because of the off-road driving and tasting activities, it’s better suited for older children or teenagers comfortable with such outings.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor driving and walking is recommended. Since part of the trip involves being outdoors, bring sun protection or a jacket depending on the weather.

What is included in the price?
All fees and taxes are covered, plus snacks. The tasting of two wines and one vinegar is included, but other alcohols and lunch are not.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, so keep an eye on the forecast.

In all, this off-road wine experience near Athens offers a lovely mix of scenic views, cultural insight, and tasting pleasure. It’s a relaxed way to explore Greece’s wine heritage, ideal for anyone wanting a more personal, nature-filled day outside the city’s hustle.