Rethymnon: Kournas Lake, Argyroupolis, and Olive Oil Tour

If you’re exploring Crete and looking for a day trip that combines nature, local culture, and a touch of leisure, this Kournas Lake, Argyroupolis, and Olive Oil Tour from Rethymnon might just fit the bill. Based on reviews and descriptions, it’s a popular choice for those who want a well-rounded taste of what the island offers without the hassle of planning every step themselves.

What we really like about this tour is how it hits a good balance between scenic stops and authentic experiences. You’ll get to see Crete’s only fresh water lake and explore a charming village with natural springs—great spots for photos, relaxing, and sampling local flavors. Plus, the olive oil tasting at a traditional factory adds a culinary touch that’s both educational and delicious.

On the downside, this kind of tour isn’t perfect for everyone. For example, if you’re after a more flexible, less structured experience, the scheduled stops and group setting might feel a bit rushed or restrictive. Also, if you’re not mobile-friendly, some parts, like walking around the village or water springs, could be a challenge.

All in all, this trip suits travelers who enjoy nature, local food, and small-group adventures—especially if you want to see some of the less touristy parts of Crete with knowledgeable guides and a good-value price tag.

Key Points

• Affordable price point: At around $28 for a full day, it offers good value considering the destinations and experiences included.
• Diverse stops: From a scenic lake to a traditional village, olive oil tasting, and natural springs, the tour covers a lot of ground.
• Great guides and drivers: Multiple reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude, making the day more engaging.
• Comfortable transportation: Air-conditioned buses and hotel pickup ease the logistics, though some areas are not included in pickup zones.
• Time management: Most reviews find the schedule well-paced, though a few mention feeling rushed at each stop.
• Authentic experiences: Locally-produced olive oil, water springs, and home-cooked Crete dishes at the lake make this a genuinely local experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: From Rethymnon to a Traditional Olive Oil Mill

The journey kicks off with a convenient hotel pickup included in many locations around Rethymnon, which immediately takes the hassle out of logistics. You’ll hop onto an air-conditioned coach, and from there, the day begins with a visit to a local olive oil factory. This isn’t just a quick stop; it’s an opportunity to see firsthand how Crete’s famous olive oil is produced. Our insights from reviews suggest that these guides are knowledgeable and engaging, making the process clear without being dry or overly technical.

This stop is more than just a photo opportunity. You’ll learn about traditional methods, and there’s often a tasting involved. Many visitors appreciate this part, describing it as both educational and tasty. It’s a good way to understand the importance of olive oil in Cretan cuisine and culture.

The Village of Argyroupolis and Its Water Springs

Next, the tour takes you to Argiroupoli, a charming village famous for its lush greenery and natural watersprings. Visitors love the scenery here—it’s easy to see why some compare it to a ‘magical’ spot. The waterspring area is a perfect place to stroll, relax, and take photos, with many reviews mentioning the peaceful vibe and stunning vegetation nourished by these springs.

You might find the stop here slightly brief, but it’s enough to soak in the atmosphere and maybe taste some local produce or fruit. Some mention the village having a traditional bakery still run by a 94-year-old, which adds a layer of authenticity to the experience.

Kournas Lake: The Highlight

The final and most anticipated stop is Kournas Lake, the only freshwater lake on the island. This tranquil spot is beloved by visitors, with many calling it the highlight of the day. You’ll have roughly 2.5 hours here, plenty of time to swim, eat at the lakeside taverns, or simply unwind.

What makes Kournas special is not just its scenic beauty but the fun activities available. You can rent a pedalo—an activity many reviews highlight as a favorite. Water turtles and the clear, calm waters make it a perfect setting for relaxing or snapping some memorable photos. Several guests have raved about the chance to enjoy authentic Cretan cuisine at the surrounding taverns, often at very reasonable prices.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Experience on the Ground

Most travelers find the bus comfortable, and the guides helpful and knowledgeable. Multiple reviews praise the organization, punctual pickups, and friendly staff. That said, a few mention that the bus isn’t always perfectly air-conditioned, and some stops are a tad rushed, meaning you might need to prioritize what you want to see or do.

It’s worth noting that some areas are not included in pickup zones, so if you’re staying in the Panormo area or certain resorts, you’ll need to check the specific pickup details or arrange your own transport. Also, the tour isn’t suited for anyone with mobility issues, as walking around village watersprings or uneven terrains might be involved.

Food, Drink, and Overall Value

One of the standout aspects—highlighted repeatedly—is how affordable the whole trip is, especially considering all the locations and experiences. The included olive oil tasting and the opportunity to enjoy local Cretan dishes by the lake add to the feeling of good value for money. Reviewers have raved about the delicious, home-cooked meals available at the lakeside taverns, often at very reasonable prices.

Final Thoughts: Who’s This Tour Best For?

This tour is a solid pick if you’re after a laid-back yet interesting day that mixes scenery, culture, and some fun activities like pedaling on the lake. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy guided experiences, want to learn about local traditions, and appreciate comfortable transport without the stress of planning logistics themselves.

If your trip is all about exploring Crete’s history or hiking for hours, this might not be your best fit. But if you’re looking for a well-organized, friendly, and affordable day out with a variety of sights and tastes, this tour ticks a lot of boxes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it’s best suited for children who can comfortably walk or stand for a bit, especially around watersprings and the village. The activities are quite relaxed, but some parts may require mobility.

Are lunch or drinks included?
The tour price doesn’t include meals, but you’ll find plenty of taverns around Kournas Lake offering local cuisine. Many reviews mention enjoying delicious, reasonably priced home-cooked dishes.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must, along with sunglasses, sun hat, and a camera. Since you’ll be outdoors a lot, packing sunscreen is also a good idea.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, with starting times varying depending on your pickup location. It’s a full-day outing but designed to be leisurely.

Are there any parts of the tour that are rushed?
A few travelers mentioned feeling slightly hurried during some stops, especially the village waterspring and the lake. Prioritize what interests you most if you want to make the most of your time.

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

All in all, this Rethymnon-based day trip offers a good mix of scenery, local culture, and leisure activities at an accessible price point. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or someone simply looking to escape the beach for a day, it’s worth considering—especially if you enjoy guided tours with friendly, knowledgeable hosts who make you feel welcome.

You can check availability for your dates here: