Live Like a Shepherd for One Day, the Mitato Experience

Escape the bustle of modern life and journey to the picturesque hills of Chania, Greece, where you can learn about the time-honored traditions of Cretan shepherd culture. The Mitato Experience offers a unique chance to live like a shepherd for a day, complete with hands-on tasks, authentic cuisine, and a glimpse into the rugged, pastoral lifestyle that has endured for generations. Priced at $245.92 per person, this adventure promises to disconnect you from the present and transport you to a simpler, yet captivating world – one where the rhythm of the land and the rhythm of life converge.

Key Points

• Immersive one-day experience in traditional Cretan shepherd life, including tending to a herd, milking sheep, and cheese-making.
• Visit a "mitato," a modest stone shelter serving as both a home and dairy processing area, to gain insight into the off-the-grid shepherd lifestyle.
• Enjoy a traditional Greek and Cretan lunch featuring local ingredients, such as Cretan cheeses, olives, and aromatic herb-infused dishes, accompanied by local red wine.
• Transportation, lunch, wine, and all fees/taxes are included in the package, priced from $245.92 per person with a maximum of 15 travelers.
• The experience is not wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed, and moderate physical fitness is required due to the remote location.

Overview of the Experience

For a day, participants enjoy the life of a Cretan shepherd, gaining insights into their traditional way of living.

This experience, known as the Mitato Experience, takes place in Chania, Greece, and is priced from $245.92 per person, with a maximum of 15 travelers.

Confirmation is received upon booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.

The package includes private transportation, a traditional Greek and Cretan lunch, local wine and bottled water, all fees and taxes, a first aid kit, and baby or booster seats as needed.

Pickup is at 10:00 am, with arrival at the shepherd’s shelter by 11:00 am.

What to Expect on the Day

Upon arrival at the shepherd’s shelter, participants step into the world of traditional Cretan shepherding.

They’ll learn about the daily activities and responsibilities of a shepherd, including tending to the herd, milking the sheep, and making cheese. Guests will have the opportunity to actively participate in these tasks, gaining a hands-on understanding of the shepherd’s life.

After the morning’s activities, a delicious Greek and Cretan traditional lunch awaits, featuring local ingredients.

Throughout the day, you will savor local wine and bottled water, seeing the pastoral lifestyle.

The experience provides a unique chance to disconnect from the modern world and connect with Crete’s age-old shepherding traditions.

Taking in the Shepherd’s Life

As participants arrive at the shepherd’s shelter, they step into a world frozen in time, immersed in the rhythms and routines of traditional Cretan shepherding.

The experience offers an authentic glimpse into the daily life of a shepherd, including:

• Observing the process of milking sheep and goats, a crucial task for sustaining the shepherd’s livelihood

• Assisting with the preparation of traditional Cretan cheeses, using time-honored techniques passed down through generations

• Exploring the shepherd’s modest, yet self-sufficient shelter, gaining an appreciation for the simple, yet fulfilling lifestyle

Participants fully embrace the shepherd’s way of life, connecting with the land and its natural rhythms, creating lasting memories of this immersive cultural experience.

Exploring the Shepherd’s Shelter

Visitors step inside the shepherd’s modest, yet self-sufficient shelter, marveling at its simple yet functional design.

The small stone structure, called a "mitato," serves as both a home and a place to process dairy products. It’s equipped with a wood-burning stove, a basic kitchen, and sleeping accommodations covered in warm woolen blankets.

Outside, a small pen houses the shepherd’s flock of sheep, emphasizing the close-knit relationship between the herder and their animals.

Participants gain a deeper appreciation for the rugged, off-the-grid lifestyle as they explore the shelter and learn about the daily routines and challenges faced by these traditional Greek shepherds.

Enjoying the Traditional Cretan Cuisine

After exploring the shepherd’s rustic shelter, the experience transitions to savoring the traditional Cretan cuisine.

Guests are served a delectable Greek and Cretan lunch prepared with local, fresh ingredients. The meal features:

• A selection of Cretan cheeses and olives
• Aromatic herb-infused dishes, such as stewed vegetables and lamb
• A glass of local, full-bodied red wine to complement the flavors

Lunch is enjoyed in the peaceful, picturesque setting of the shepherd’s shelter, allowing participants to fully enjoy the pastoral way of life.

This authentic culinary experience provides a true taste of Crete’s rich gastronomic heritage.

Transportation and Pickup Details

For this experience, participants are picked up from select locations in the Chania region at 10:00 am.

The pickup depends on the location, but all guests will arrive at the shepherd’s shelter by 11:00 am. Private transportation is provided throughout the day.

The experience also includes a first aid kit and baby or booster seats, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey.

Travelers should note that the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed. Most visitors can participate, and infant seats are available.

Accessibility and Suitability

The Mitato Experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed.

Infant seats are available, making it suitable for families with young children. Most travelers can participate in this unique opportunity to live like a shepherd for a day.

• The experience takes place in a remote location, requiring a moderate level of physical fitness.

• Participants should be prepared for a rustic, outdoor setting with limited modern amenities.

• Those with dietary restrictions or allergies should inform the organizers in advance to ensure their needs are accommodated.

Booking and Reservation Information

Booking the Mitato Experience guarantees travelers the lowest available price. Visitors can reserve their spot and pay later, securing their place while remaining flexible. The experience has a maximum of 15 participants, and confirmation is received at the time of booking. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.

Booking Information	Value
Lowest Price Guarantee	Yes
Reserve Now, Pay Later	Yes
Maximum Travelers	15

Pickup times and locations vary based on the selected location, but travelers will arrive at the shepherd’s shelter by 11:00 am.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, participants can’t bring their own food and drinks. The experience includes a traditional Greek and Cretan lunch with local ingredients, as well as local wine and bottled water.

Is There a Dress Code for the Experience?

There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended. The experience takes place outdoors, so dressing for the elements is advised. Bring an extra layer in case the weather changes during the day.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

There are no specific age restrictions for this experience. The activity is described as suitable for most travelers, with infant seats available. However, participants should be able to physically handle the shepherd’s daily tasks.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Vegan Meal?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or vegan meal. The experience provider notes that they can accommodate dietary restrictions, so simply let them know your preference when booking the tour.

How Do I Get My Refund if I Need to Cancel?

You can get a full refund if you cancel up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Just contact the provider and they’ll process your refund promptly. There are no penalties for canceling within the free cancellation period.

The Sum Up

The Mitato Experience in Chania, Greece, offers a unique opportunity to take in the traditional shepherd’s life. Participants can partake in daily tasks, savor authentic Cretan cuisine, and connect with the region’s rich pastoral traditions. With private transportation and a picturesque setting, this adventure provides an unforgettable chance to disconnect from modern life and gain insight into the rugged lifestyle of Cretan shepherds.