The Chios: Mastiha Shore Excursion offers a captivating adventure for those seeking to enjoy the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of the island. Priced at £235.87 for up to two people, this guided 4.5-hour tour promises to enchant visitors with its diverse itinerary, from the charming medieval villages to the informative Chios Mastic Museum. Explore the unique cultivation of mastiha, savor the local products, and marvel at the architectural beauty of the region. With its compelling blend of history, culture, and natural wonders, this excursion promises to leave a lasting impression on those who embark on this remarkable journey.
Good To Know
- Explore Chios Island’s cultural heritage and natural landscape, with a focus on the cultivation and harvesting of the renowned mastic resin.
- Visit medieval villages like Mesta and Pyrgi, showcasing distinctive architectural features and providing insights into the island’s history.
- Learn about the centuries-old mastic trade and its impact on Chios’ cultural identity at the Chios Mastic Museum.
- Savor a variety of mastic-flavored products, including liqueurs and sweets, during the tour’s culinary experiences.
- Enjoy a personalized tour with hotel pick-up/drop-off, an English-speaking driver, and the opportunity for spontaneous detours.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Mastiha Shore Excursion from Chios offers a comprehensive 4.5-hour tour at a price of £235.87 per group (up to 2 people).
This tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option. The itinerary includes visits to the villages of Kallimasia, Mesta, and Pyrgi, as well as the Chios Mastic Museum. Guests can also opt for an additional beach stop for an extra fee.
The tour includes hotel pick-up/drop-off, an English-speaking driver/tour leader, bottled water, a first aid kit, and mastic museum admission.
However, it’s not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, and there’s an additional cost of €20 for pick-up north of Chios town.
Itinerary and Locations
The tour begins in Chios, where guests will explore a variety of locations throughout the island.
The first stop is Kallimasia, a picturesque village where guests will spend 25 minutes.
Next, they’ll visit Mesta, a medieval village, for 30 minutes.
After that, the tour will make a 30-minute photo stop at Pyrgi.
The highlight of the itinerary is the Chios Mastic Museum, where guests will spend an hour learning about the cultivation and harvesting of mastiha.
Guests may also have the option to visit a nearby beach for an additional fee.
The total travel time includes various car segments between the locations.
Highlights and Experiences
This shore excursion offers guests the opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage and unique natural landscape of Chios.
Visitors will learn about the cultivation and harvesting of mastiha, a resin from the mastic tree that’s native to the island.
The tour highlights include:
- Exploring the mastiha villages and the Chios Mastic Museum to gain insights into this ancient tradition.
- Tasting local mastiha-flavored products, such as liqueurs and sweets.
- Experiencing the medieval charm of the villages of Mesta and Pyrgi, with their distinctive architecture.
Throughout the tour, guests can enjoy a coffee break and savor the local flavors, creating a well-rounded and immersive experience.
Inclusions and Important Information
Included in the Chios shore excursion are hotel pick-up and drop-off, an English-speaking driver/tour leader, bottled water, a first aid kit, and admission to the Chios Mastic Museum (€4 per person).
However, it’s important to note that this tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.
Plus, there’s an extra cost of €20 for pick-up north of Chios town.
The tour’s overall duration is 4.5 hours, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Customers can also opt for the "Reserve now & pay later" option.
Customer Reviews
According to the information provided, there’s 1 customer review for the Chios shore excursion.
The review, from Laura in the United States, gives the tour a 5/5 overall rating.
The review highlights several positive aspects of the experience:
- The guide was friendly and knowledgeable.
- The tour was personalized, with spontaneous detours.
- The excursion provided hands-on learning about mastic harvesting and included a enjoyable swimming experience.
Mastiha Cultivation and Harvesting
The Chios shore excursion not only explores the picturesque mastic villages, but also provides an in-depth look into the cultivation and harvesting of the prized mastic resin.
Participants learn how the mastic trees, native to the island, are carefully tended to ensure optimal resin production. They witness the traditional method of making incisions in the tree bark, allowing the resin to ooze out and solidify into the distinctive tear-shaped mastic pieces.
This hands-on experience gives travelers a deeper appreciation for the labor-intensive process behind this unique and cherished Greek product.
The tour offers a valuable glimpse into the centuries-old mastic trade that has shaped the cultural heritage of Chios.
Medieval Villages and Landmarks
The tour also takes visitors to the medieval villages of Chios, showcasing the island’s rich architectural heritage.
Guests will explore Mesta, a beautifully preserved medieval settlement with its distinctive fortified houses and narrow cobblestone alleys.
They’ll also visit Pyrgi, known for its unique black and white geometric patterns adorning the facades of its historic buildings.
Plus, the tour includes a stop at the Chios Mastic Museum, where travelers can learn about the island’s famous mastic cultivation and production.
Tasting Local Mastiha Products
Visitors on the Chios Shore Excursion can look forward to tasting a variety of local mastiha-flavored products.
The tour includes a stop at the Chios Mastic Museum, where travelers can learn about the unique cultivation and harvesting process of mastiha, a resin extracted from the mastic tree.
At the museum, they’ll have the opportunity to sample mastiha-infused sweets, liqueurs, and other specialties.
Beyond the museum, the tour also features a coffee break where guests can enjoy local mastiha-flavored treats.
This sensory experience allows travelers to fully enjoy the rich culinary heritage of Chios, known for its exceptional mastiha production.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour to Include Additional Stops?
Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional stops. Customers can discuss their preferences with the tour provider, who may be able to accommodate special requests or modify the itinerary within the specified duration.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?
The tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as it includes walking through medieval villages and the Chios Mastic Museum. Additional assistance or accommodations are not explicitly mentioned for those with disabilities.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Tasting of Local Products?
The tour doesn’t mention any dietary restrictions for the local product tasting. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator in advance about any special dietary needs or accommodations.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?
Yes, the tour can be extended for an additional fee. Customers can discuss this option with the tour operator when making their booking. The standard tour duration is 4.5 hours, but extensions may be available.
What Is the Policy for Bringing Children on the Tour?
The tour’s policy allows children, but parents are responsible for their supervision. There’s no specific child pricing, and the tour may not be suitable for young children due to the pace and activities.
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The Sum Up
The Chios: Mastiha Shore Excursion offers a captivating 4.5-hour tour that immerses visitors in the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of the island. With visits to charming medieval villages, the Chios Mastic Museum, and opportunities to learn about and taste local mastiha products, this guided experience provides a memorable and informative adventure for up to two people at £235.87.