Chania: Milia Mountain Tour w/Lunch Olive Oil/Wine Tastings

If you’re looking for a day that mixes scenic beauty, local flavors, and a taste of traditional Crete, this small-group tour from Chania might be just your thing. It promises a combination of off-the-beaten-path destinations, authentic food and drink, and insights into the island’s age-old agricultural traditions. We’ve seen travelers really enjoy the personalized feel, the stunning countryside views, and the quality of the tastings.

Two things stand out: first, the chance to touch the thousands-year-old olive tree that still bears fruit — a rare and meaningful experience. Second, the visit to Milia Mountain Retreat, where you can switch off from daily stress and get a real sense of island life.

A potential drawback? The tour involves a fair amount of driving on dirt roads and off-road sections, which might be tiring if you’re not used to bumpy rides. Also, with a duration of 8 hours, it’s quite full, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a packed, active day.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to go beyond the beach, dive into local culture, and enjoy a small-group atmosphere where you can ask questions and really connect with your guide. If you’re into wine, olive oil, scenic drives, and authentic food, this tour offers a balanced mix of all that.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Visit places accessible only by four-wheel drive and explore a 17th-century mountain settlement turned eco-tourism site.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about the tradition of olive oil and wine-making from local experts.
• Scenic Beauty: Drive through stunning mountain and gorge landscapes, with plenty of opportunities for photos.
• Tastings & Food: Enjoy organic olive oil, local wines, and a hearty traditional lunch at a mountain retreat.
• Small Group: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Value for Money: All tastings, lunch, transportation, and guide services are included, making it a comprehensive day out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Pickup and Transportation

The tour kicks off with pickup from seven convenient locations around Chania, including Platanias, Stalos, Maleme, Daratsos, Kolymvari, Agia Marina, and Chania itself. The transport is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is appreciated given Crete’s warm climate. Expect a roughly 40-minute drive in a Jeep or SUV to reach your first stop.

Ano Vouves: The Ancient Olive Tree

Your first significant stop is at Ano Vouves, home to what might be the oldest olive tree in Crete — estimated to be between 3,000 and 5,000 years old, and still fruit-bearing. Many reviews mention how special this is; one happily quotes, “Touch the oldest olive tree that still grows fruit,” which is a rare chance to connect with a living piece of history.

Here, you’ll get about 50 minutes to explore, enjoy a coffee or fresh orange juice, and take in the bucolic surroundings. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for appreciating the importance of olive cultivation in Crete’s identity.

Scenic Drive & Off-Road Adventure

Next, your journey continues in jeep or SUV, bouncing along narrow mountain roads and dirt tracks. The off-road ride is often highlighted as a highlight due to the stunning views of the countryside and Topolia Gorge — a dramatic ravine that cuts through Crete’s rugged landscape.

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Wine and Olive Oil Tasting at Anoskeli

Your next stop is at Anoskeli’s Olive Mill & Winery, where history and flavor collide. Here, you’ll experience a tasting of organic extra virgin olive oil, served on warm bread with oregano — many guests rave about how good the oil is, with one reviewer calling it “the best we’ve ever had.”

Following that, a tasting of five different local wines, paired with cheese and other authentic snacks, offers a deep dive into Cretan viticulture. Multiple reviews praise the quality of the wines, with one noting the last red wine was “incredible.” It’s a chance to learn how Crete’s climate and terrain influence its wines, and to enjoy quality local produce.

Milia Mountain Retreat and Lunch

The centerpiece of the day is Milia Mountain Retreat, a spot that feels like stepping back in time. This agro-tourism complex features stone homes, no electricity, and a peaceful atmosphere that encourages disconnecting from the modern world.

You’ll spend about two hours here, with free time to walk around, relax, and enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch. The food is a highlight — many reviewers mention how scrumptious and hearty the meal is, with vegetarian options available. You’ll also enjoy local wine or beer, and a delicious dessert. The scenic setting, combined with good food, makes this a memorable part of the day.

Topolia Gorge and Scenic Final Drive

On the way back to Chania, your driver will take you through Topolia Gorge, where you’ll marvel at the wild, rugged landscapes. The drive is scenic, and many guests comment on how it offers a different, less touristy view of Crete’s interior.

The Experience in Detail

This tour strikes a balance between learning, tasting, and sightseeing. What makes it stand out is the emphasis on authentic places and local traditions. Visiting a 17th-century mountain settlement shows how Crete’s rural communities have preserved their architecture and lifestyle, even as they adapt for tourism.

The olive tree at Ano Vouves isn’t just a photo op; it’s a living monument to Crete’s history of olive cultivation. Many reviews mention how touching the ancient olive tree was a real highlight, “a piece of living history,” as one traveler put it. These kinds of experiences give you something tangible to remember, beyond just tasting.

The olive oil and wine tastings have been singled out as especially good value. Guests often mention how the quality of the products exceeded expectations, and how the tastings are paired with local snacks, giving you a true flavor of Crete. The lunch at Milia, with its rustic setting and generous portions, is also widely praised for its authenticity and deliciousness.

Guides and Group Size

The small-group format — limited to six participants — means your guide can tailor the experience and answer questions more personally. Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides who share local insights and keep the pace lively. Many reviewers mention guides like Nickolas, Stavros, or Vassilis for their engaging personalities and wealth of information.

Price and Value

At $164 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience that includes tastings, lunch, transportation, and guide services. Travelers seem to think it’s an excellent value, especially considering the in-depth sights and quality of the experiences. It’s a full day that combines learning, eating, and seeing parts of Crete you’d likely miss on your own.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes — you’ll be walking on uneven terrain and dirt roads.
• Bring sun protection: sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen are advisable.
• If you are vegetarian or have allergies, inform the tour provider in advance to arrange the menu.
• The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, mainly due to the off-road sections and physical nature of some stops.
• The pickup is from several locations within a modest range of Chania, so check your email for pickup details.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those eager to see the authentic, rural side of Crete. It suits travelers who appreciate history, local food and drink, scenic drives, and small-group intimacy. It’s especially good if you want more than a beach day — to connect with Crete’s agricultural roots and enjoy a day out in nature.

It’s a solid choice for foodies, wine lovers, and anyone curious about olive oil production. The off-road sections might not appeal to everyone, but if you’re up for a little adventure, you’ll find it rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included within a certain radius of Chania, and transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, starting with pickup and ending with drop-off in the late afternoon.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and perhaps a camera. If you have food allergies or vegetarian preferences, notify the provider in advance.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be arranged if you inform the tour provider beforehand.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the off-road nature and physical activity involved.

What is included in the price?
Tastings of olive oil and wine, lunch, a drink (beer or wine), dessert, coffee or orange juice, bottled water, guide services, and liability insurance.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance.

Will I see the oldest olive tree?
Yes, the tour includes a stop at this ancient tree, which is estimated to be between 3,000 and 5,000 years old.

Final Thoughts

This Milia Mountain Tour offers a rich blend of culture, scenery, and authentic tasting experiences. It’s clear from reviews that many participants find it to be a highlight of their time in Crete. The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning landscapes, and high-quality products provides great value for those wanting a genuine taste of the island’s rural soul.

If you’re someone who enjoys off-the-beaten-path adventures, scenic drives, and local food, this tour will suit you perfectly. The small-group setting makes it more personal and engaging, ensuring you’ll leave with stories and flavors to remember.

While some may find the off-road sections a bit bumpy, the overall quality and variety of experiences make it a worthwhile investment. For a full day of exploring Crete’s countryside in comfort, with plenty of chances to learn, taste, and relax, this tour delivers a memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: