Island Spinalonga, Milatos Cave, Speedboat, OliveTasting

When it comes to exploring Crete, this tour offers a balanced mix of rugged landscapes, fascinating history, and authentic local experiences. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it’s clear this tour hits many of the right notes. It’s perfect if you enjoy a little adventure, history, and delicious food, all wrapped into one day.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are the stunning mountain views during the off-road drive and the unique opportunity to visit Spinalonga Island, famous for its past as a leper colony. We also appreciate the small group size, which promises more personal attention and a relaxed pace. The only potential downside? The entrance fee for Spinalonga isn’t included, so you’ll need to budget for that extra cost. This tour suits travelers who want an active, authentic day that showcases Crete’s natural beauty and history without feeling rushed.

Contents hide

1 A Closer Look at the Itinerary

2 Why This Tour Stands Out

3 Practicalities and Value

4 Authentic Experiences That Matter

5 Final Thoughts

Key Points

Balanced mix of land and sea adventures that highlight Crete’s landscape and history
Small group sizes ensure personalized attention and a relaxed experience
Expert guides provide engaging stories and insights, making the trip more meaningful
Authentic local experiences like olive oil tasting and visits to traditional villages
Stunning scenic views from mountain drives and boat rides that will stay with you
Good value considering the variety of activities and included transportation

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Crete.

Off-Road Mountain Drive and Mikados Caves

The adventure kicks off with a Land Rover excursion over rugged mountain trails. This part of the tour is a highlight for anyone who appreciates scenery and a bit of adventure. We loved the way the Land Rover navigates narrow, uneven paths — it’s a real safari experience— and the views over the bay of Elounda and the Aegean Sea are breathtaking.

The drive includes a visit to the Mikados Caves, offering a glimpse into Crete’s geological features and a chance to take some memorable photos. One reviewer commented, “The drive through the mountains was beautiful & there were fantastic views up in the hills,” which captures the sense of scenic wonder.

Scenic Views and Village Visits

As you travel through small villages, you’ll get a feel for local life away from tourist hotspots. The guide’s commentary enhances the experience, offering insights into the region’s culture and history. We appreciated the quiet, less commercial atmosphere here, giving us a more authentic taste of Crete.

Olive Oil Factory Tour

Next, you visit a local olive oil factory, where a knowledgeable hostess introduces you to traditional olive oil production. This part is a hit for food lovers and those interested in local craftsmanship. You’ll learn how olive oil is made, see the process, and — of course — sample the products. One guest noted, “It was really interesting & the hostess was very welcoming & generous with the samples,” highlighting how enjoyable and approachable this experience is. Plus, the shop nearby offers quality products at reasonable prices.

More Great Tours Nearby

Coastal Views and Lunch

On the return trip, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Gulf of Mirabello. The tour schedules a lunch stop at a well-reviewed taverna, which is described as “spotlessly clean, a fabulous selection of food & so pretty.” Timing is carefully managed so you can enjoy a hearty meal without feeling rushed, which many travelers find adds to the trip’s overall value.

Here's some more things to do in Crete

Boat Ride to Spinalonga

From the village of Plaka, you board a speedboat for a quick 2-minute ride across crystal-clear waters to Spinalonga Island. This is the place that makes this tour special — the island’s history as a leper colony makes it both haunting and fascinating. The small group size means fewer crowds and a more intimate visit.

Once on Spinalonga, you get a short guided tour that covers the island’s poignant history and ruins. Reviewers like Maria rave about the experience: “Spinalonga has an amazing history & is beautiful in a haunted sense.” Another traveler mentioned, “We were the only visitors on the island, which was great,” emphasizing how the tour’s timing and small group nature make the visit more personal.

Return to Crete

The tour wraps up with the boat ride back to Plaka, followed by a scenic drive back to your hotel, giving you plenty of time to reflect on a day filled with beauty and stories.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This experience offers a well-rounded look at Crete’s natural and historical highlights without feeling overwhelming. The small group size (limited to 6 participants) ensures you’ll get more personalized attention and a chance to ask questions, making the historical bits about Spinalonga and the olive oil factory all the more engaging.

The combination of off-road driving, scenic coastlines, authentic food tasting, and a unique island visit makes this tour a good pick for travelers who want a bit of everything. Whether you’re into nature, history, or food, this tour balances these interests effectively.

Practicalities and Value

The tour lasts about 7 hours, starting with pickup from multiple convenient locations. The transportation—a Land Rover for the mountain trek and a speedboat for the coast—is included, which adds value and convenience. The entrance fee to Spinalonga isn’t included, so budget around €20 for that. Considering the diverse experiences packed into one day, the price offers good value for what you get.

The tour is multi-lingual, with guides speaking English, Greek, and other languages (German, Italian, French, Russian, Spanish, Romanian), making it accessible to many travelers. The small group size ensures a more relaxed and engaging experience, unlike larger, more impersonal tours.

Authentic Experiences That Matter

What travelers really appreciate are the authentic local touches — the olive oil tasting, the village visits, and the personal stories about Spinalonga. These aren’t just tourist stops; they’re windows into Crete’s culture and history.

Final Thoughts

This day tour is ideal for those who want to get off the beaten path and experience Crete’s natural beauty and historical depth in a manageable, well-organized format. It’s a good choice if you enjoy scenic drives, small-group intimacy, and authentic local flavor.

Travelers looking for a full day of adventure, photo-worthy views, and historical insights will find plenty to love here. It’s especially suitable if you appreciate guided commentary and are curious about the island’s past as a leper colony.

In summary, this tour offers excellent value for its mix of scenery, history, and local culture, making it a solid addition to any Crete itinerary.

Is the pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is included and is available from 13 different locations around Crete. Look for the orange Land Rover Discovery.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 7 hours long. You should check the starting times when booking.

What’s not included in the price?
The entrance fee for Spinalonga (€20) is not included, so plan to pay that separately on the day.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the specifics aren’t mentioned, the small group and varied activities suggest it could be enjoyable for older children and teenagers, especially those interested in history and scenery.

Are there language options for the guide?
Yes, guides speak several languages including English, Greek, German, Italian, French, Russian, Spanish, and Romanian.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for off-road driving and a boat ride is recommended. Don’t forget sun protection and perhaps a hat or sunglasses.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to bring cash?
Yes, you’ll need cash for the Spinalonga entrance fee and any purchases at the olive oil shop or other stops.

If you’re after a day that combines adventure, scenic beauty, and historical intrigue, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized experience outside of crowded tourist spots, with enough variety to keep everyone engaged. We’re confident you’ll come away with vivid memories of Crete’s landscapes, stories, and flavors — all in one well-paced day.