Kournas Lake Argiroupolis and Olive Oil Factory

Nestled near the charming town of Argiroupolis, Kournas Lake beckons visitors with its serene turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and pedal boat adventures. But the allure of this idyllic spot extends beyond the lake itself. Nearby, an olive oil factory offers a glimpse into the cultural significance of this revered Cretan staple, where traditional cultivation and pressing techniques are showcased. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil escape or a deeper exploration of the island’s culinary heritage, this destination promises a truly enriching experience.

Key Points

• The tour includes a visit to a local olive oil factory where visitors can learn about the cultivation and production of olive oil in Crete.
• Argyroupolis Waterfalls, a serene natural attraction, offers opportunities for hiking, swimming, and capturing stunning photography.
• Kournas Lake, known for its turquoise waters, allows visitors to swim, rent pedal boats, and explore authentic Cretan cuisine at nearby taverns.
• The tour provides an intimate experience with a maximum group size of 49 and an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation.
• Customer reviews praise the guide’s expertise, breathtaking scenery, and the overall authentic Cretan experience offered by the tour.

Tour Overview

The tour allows visitors to experience Crete off the beaten path, immersing them in the island’s authentic cultural offerings.

Travelers will visit a local olive oil factory to learn about the intricate production process. Then, they’ll be enchanted by the serene Argyroupolis waterfalls, surrounded by lush, verdant vegetation.

The highlight of the day is a refreshing swim at Kournas Lake, followed by savoring Cretan delicacies at nearby taverns.

With a tour rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 27 reviews, this experience promises an unforgettable journey through Crete’s natural beauty and culinary traditions.

Itinerary Details

Kicking off at 10:00 am, this immersive tour encompasses multiple stops for in-depth exploration.

The itinerary includes a variety of activities, such as:

• Swimming in the tranquil waters of Kournas Lake
• Renting pedal boats to explore the lake at your own pace
• Indulging in authentic Cretan delicacies at local taverns
• Browsing the shops for unique souvenirs and handicrafts
• Discovering the intricacies of olive oil production at a local factory

With a maximum group size of 49 travelers, this tour offers an intimate and personalized experience, allowing you to truly learn about the natural beauty and cultural richness of Crete.

Transportation and Pickup

For this tour, an air-conditioned vehicle is provided to transport guests.

Pickup is available from select points, though no pickup is offered from the Grand Rimondi. Instead, travelers can meet at the OPAP shop in Stavromenos.

The main meeting point is Markidis Travel, located at Sofokli Venizelou 42 in Rethymno, Greece.

This tour has a maximum group size of 49 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Infants must sit on laps, but most travelers can participate and enjoy the scenic journey.

Inclusions and Policies

This tour includes a complimentary lunch and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, but the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Infants must sit on laps, and most travelers can participate.

The key inclusions and policies for this tour are:

• Complimentary lunch
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior
• Confirmation provided at booking
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Infants must sit on laps

Olive Oil Factory Visit

During the tour, visitors have the opportunity to explore a local olive oil factory and learn about the intricate process of producing this prized Cretan delicacy.

At the factory, guests gain an insider’s perspective on the cultivation and pressing of olives, witnessing the meticulous steps that transform the humble fruit into the rich, aromatic oil that’s a staple of Mediterranean cuisine.

Through interactive demonstrations and expert guidance, travelers discover the deep cultural significance of olive oil in Crete, as well as the artisanal techniques that have been passed down through generations.

This hands-on experience is a highlight for many, offering a newfound appreciation for the region’s agricultural heritage.

Argyroupolis Waterfalls

After exploring the intricacies of olive oil production, the tour moves on to the serene Argyroupolis Waterfalls.

Nestled amidst lush, verdant vegetation, these cascading falls offer a peaceful respite from the day’s adventures. Visitors can marvel at the shimmering waters as they flow over the rocky terrain, creating a mesmerizing display of nature’s power and beauty.

The surrounding area invites exploration, with:

• Opportunities to hike and discover hidden trails
• Chances to spot local wildlife in their natural habitat
• Picturesque vantage points for stunning photography
• Tranquil spots to simply sit and bask in the serene ambiance
• Refreshing swimming holes to cool off and rejuvenate.

Kournas Lake Exploration

Kournas Lake beckons visitors with its serene, turquoise waters nestled amidst the rugged Cretan landscape. After a scenic drive, travelers can indulge in a refreshing swim, surrounded by the lake’s natural beauty. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, renting pedal boats provides the opportunity to explore the lake at a slower pace. Nearby taverns offer the chance to savor authentic Cretan delicacies, further immersing visitors in the local culture.

Activities	Duration	Cost
Swimming	Unlimited	Free
Pedal Boating	30 minutes	€5
Dining	1-2 hours	Varies
Shopping	Flexible	Varies
Photography	Flexible	Free

Customer Reviews

Travelers who’ve embarked on this Cretan adventure share their enthusiastic feedback. Positive reviews highlight the tour guide and driver’s expertise, as well as the breathtaking scenery, informative olive oil factory tour, and opportunities to swim with turtles.

Reviewers notably mention the authentic Cretan experiences, including local shops. While some note language clarity challenges for non-native speakers, the overall consensus is that this tour provides a memorable day.

As one traveler eloquently states:

• "A perfect blend of culture, nature, and relaxation."
• "The olive oil tasting was a true highlight."
• "Swimming in the crystal-clear Kournas Lake was magical."
• "Our guide’s passion for the island really shone through."
• "A must-do for anyone seeking an off-the-beaten-path Cretan experience."

Since You Asked

Are There Any Additional Fees for Renting Pedal Boats?

The tour overview doesn’t mention any additional fees for renting pedal boats. The inclusions indicate the tour cost covers activities like swimming and shopping at local stores, but there’s no specific information about pedal boat rentals.

Can I Purchase Olive Oil From the Factory On-Site?

Yes, visitors can purchase olive oil directly from the factory’s on-site shop during the tour. The factory offers a variety of olive oil products for visitors to explore and purchase as souvenirs of their Cretan experience.

Are There Lockers or Storage Facilities at the Lake?

The tour does not mention any lockers or storage facilities at Kournas Lake. Visitors will need to bring their own bags or containers to store personal belongings while swimming or exploring the area around the lake.

Does the Tour Include Any Additional Stops or Activities?

The tour includes several additional stops and activities beyond the olive oil factory and Kournas Lake, such as visiting the Argyroupolis waterfalls and opportunities for swimming, pedal boat rentals, and shopping at local stores during the day’s exploration.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Tour?

The tour does not explicitly state whether you can bring your own food and drinks. However, the overview mentions visiting local taverns, so you may have the opportunity to purchase refreshments throughout the day.

The Sum Up

Kournas Lake offers a tranquil escape amidst Crete’s natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy the local culture, exploring the olive oil factory and enjoying authentic Cretan cuisine. The lake’s turquoise waters invite swimming and pedal boat adventures, creating an unforgettable experience. This tour seamlessly blends Cretan heritage and outdoor recreation, leaving guests with a deeper appreciation for the island’s treasures.