Unlock the secrets of Crete’s stunning landscapes on the Kournas Lake hiking and olive oil tasting tour. This immersive adventure takes you through the island’s largest freshwater lake, where you’ll explore rich flora and fauna. But the journey doesn’t end there – explore the ancient olive groves and savor premium extra virgin olive oil, learning about its production and health benefits. With a personalized experience and a traditional Cretan meal, this tour offers a truly unique way to connect with the heart of this captivating Mediterranean destination.
Key Points
- This 6.5-hour tour offers guided exploration of Crete’s largest freshwater lake, Kournas Lake, with olive oil tasting and a traditional Cretan meal.
- The tour includes van transportation, premium extra virgin olive oil tasting, and a maximum group size of 8 participants.
- Participants will discover the lake’s flora, fauna, local myths, ancient olive groves, and hidden waterfalls while guided by a local expert.
- The olive oil tasting experience allows visitors to learn about the production process, flavor profiles, and health benefits of extra virgin olive oil.
- The tour features a culinary experience at Pelagias Yard, showcasing traditional Cretan cuisine and immersing participants in the region’s gastronomic heritage.
Tour Overview
The Kournas Lake hiking and olive oil tasting tour offers visitors a chance to explore the serene natural beauty of Crete’s largest freshwater lake.
Priced from €87 per person, the 6.5-hour experience is limited to a group size of 8 participants and is guided by a local expert.
The tour is accessible for wheelchair users and includes van transportation, a tasting of premium extra virgin olive oil, and a traditional Cretan meal.
Participants can expect to discover the lake’s flora, fauna, and local myths, as well as visit ancient olive groves and hidden waterfalls.
The tour can be reserved now and paid for later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Pricing and Inclusions
The tour’s pricing starts at €87.00 per person, making it an affordable option for visitors to Crete. The tour duration is 6.5 hours, and the group size is limited to 8 participants. Transportation via van and a guided experience by a local expert are included, as well as a tasting of premium extra virgin olive oil and a traditional Cretan meal.
| Tour Inclusions | |
|---|---|
| Guided Tour | Hiking Equipment |
| Van Transport | Olive Oil Tasting |
| Hotel Pick-up | Traditional Meal |
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and participants can reserve and pay later with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Itinerary and Locations
The tour starts at Hypnosis Villa, where you will embark on their journey to explore the stunning Kournas Lake.
The main stop is Kournas Lake, where hikers will have the opportunity to:
- Discover the lake’s rich flora and fauna
- Observe hidden waterfalls and wild herbs
- Visit ancient olive groves
- Capture scenic photos at the Chania Regional Unit
- Experience traditional Cretan cuisine at Pelagias Yard
The tour also includes a van transfer to all locations, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience.
With a focus on local expertise and immersive cultural experiences, this tour promises to be a truly memorable adventure.
Guided Hiking Experience
Guided by Stelios Aleksakis, a local expert, participants embark on an immersive hiking adventure around the stunning Kournas Lake.
They’ll discover the region’s rich flora and fauna, including wild herbs and hidden waterfalls. Along the way, guests learn about local myths and legends that have been passed down for generations.
The hike provides an opportunity to explore ancient olive groves and witness the traditional olive oil-making process.
Afterwards, participants indulge in a culinary experience at Pelagias Yard, savoring a selection of traditional Cretan dishes paired with the tasting of premium Patima Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
Olive Oil Tasting
After exploring the scenic Kournas Lake on the guided hike, participants shift their focus to the rich culinary heritage of Crete.
They visit the ancient olive groves and taste the premium Patima Extra Virgin Olive Oil, a local specialty. The tasting allows them to discover the distinct flavors and aromas of this Cretan delicacy:
- Learn about the olive oil production process and its cultural significance
- Appreciate the complex notes of the oil, from fruity to peppery
- Understand the health benefits of extra virgin olive oil
- Pair the oil with traditional Cretan dishes for a true gastronomic experience
- Bring home a bottle as a memento of the tour’s delectable highlights.
Culinary Experience
At the picturesque Pelagias Yard, participants embark on a culinary journey showcasing the vibrant flavors of traditional Cretan cuisine.
The experience features a delectable selection of appetizers, a fresh salad, and a main course, all complemented by local wine.
This culinary delight allows visitors to enjoy the rich gastronomic heritage of the region, as they savor the homemade dishes prepared with care and attention to detail.
The meal not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides an opportunity to learn about the local food culture and its time-honored recipes passed down through generations.
Participant Guidelines
This tour isn’t suitable for everyone. Certain participants may not be able to fully enjoy the experience due to health or physical limitations.
These include pregnant women, individuals with altitude sickness, recent surgeries, low fitness levels, babies under 1 year, those over 95 years, and those over 309 lbs (140 kg) or with insect allergies.
To ensure everyone’s safety and comfort, it’s important to consider these guidelines.
Participants are advised to wear:
- Comfortable shoes
- Hat
- Comfortable clothing
- Outdoor attire
- T-shirt
Reservation and Cancellation
To make a reservation for this tour, visitors can do so with the flexibility of "reserve now & pay later." Plus, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund if plans change.
| Reservation | Cancellation |
|---|---|
| Reserve now & pay later | Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance |
| Secure your spot today | Full refund if you need to cancel |
This policy offers convenience and peace of mind, ensuring an enjoyable and hassle-free Kournas Lake hiking and olive oil tasting experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pets on the Tour?
Pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour operator’s guidelines state that the tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year or individuals with insect allergies, which may include pets. Only service animals are permitted.
Is Photography Allowed During the Hike?
Photography is allowed during the hike. The tour guide encourages participants to take photos of the stunning scenery, local wildlife, and cultural elements along the way to capture the essence of the experience.
Is There a Vegetarian or Vegan Meal Option?
Yes, the tour offers a vegetarian or vegan meal option. Customers should inform the host of any dietary requirements when making the reservation, and the traditional Cretan cuisine will be adjusted to accommodate their needs.
How Do I Get to the Starting Location?
Participants can arrange for hotel pick-up, which is included in the tour. Alternatively, they can make their own way to the starting location, Hypnosis Villa, using the provided transportation details. The tour van will pick up guests from the villa.
Can I Extend the Tour Duration or Customize the Itinerary?
Customers can’t extend the tour duration, but they can customize the itinerary by adding or removing optional stops. The tour’s schedule and logistics are fixed, but the guide can accommodate certain participant requests within reason.
Recap
The Kournas Lake hiking and olive oil tasting tour offers an immersive experience in Crete’s stunning landscapes. Priced at €87 per person, the 6.5-hour guided adventure includes exploring the rich flora and fauna, discovering ancient olive groves, savoring premium extra virgin olive oil, and enjoying a traditional Cretan meal. With a maximum group size of 8, the tour ensures a personalized and memorable experience.