Naxos: Olive Oil Tasting & Baking at Eggares Olive Press

If you’re visiting Naxos and seeking an experience that blends culture, cuisine, and tradition, then the Olive Oil Tasting & Baking at Eggares Olive Press offers a genuine slice of Greek life. This tour invites you to step inside one of the island’s oldest olive mills, learn how olive oil has shaped Naxos for centuries, and even get your hands dirty in the kitchen. We’ve gathered plenty of feedback from travelers who’ve enjoyed this activity, and it’s easy to see why it’s rated a perfect 5 out of 5.

What we love most? The interactive nature of the experience—baking your own olive bread and tasting high-quality oils—and the warm, knowledgeable hosts who make every step enjoyable. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with local tradition in a relaxed setting. The only thing to keep in mind is that this tour is family-friendly but not suitable for very young children or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or travel family, this experience offers a meaningful, tasty, and fun snapshot of Greek culture. It’s a small-group activity, which means plenty of individual attention and a more intimate vibe—perfect for making new friends or just soaking in the local spirit.

Key Points

• Authentic & interactive: Learn how olive oil was traditionally made and participate in baking your own olive bread.
• Cultural insight: Discover the significance of the Eggares Olive Press Museum, one of Naxos’ oldest mills.
• Tasting experience: Sample a variety of high-quality, flavorful olive oils and understand what makes extra virgin olive oil special.
• Family-friendly but practical: Suitable for all ages over 5, with engaging activities for both kids and adults.
• Limited small groups: Ensures a relaxed, personalized experience with no crowds.
• Value for money: For $64, you get a guided tour, tasting, baking, and a light meal—a well-rounded cultural and culinary package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Starting Point: Eggares Olive Oil Museum

Your journey begins at the Eggares Olive Oil Museum, which is itself a highlight. As one of the oldest olive mills in Naxos, the site offers a tangible connection to the past with its traditional stone mills and ancient machinery. Walking into the museum, you immediately get a feel for the authentic craftsmanship that has sustained local communities for generations.

The guided tour (roughly 20 minutes) takes you through the process of making olive oil, from harvesting olives to pressing—though it’s more than just a simple explanation. The hosts do a good job of sharing stories behind the machinery, local customs, and the importance of olive oil in Greek life. As one reviewer notes, “Caterina explained very well the whole process of olive oil making, and also shared other traveling recommendations,” which adds a personal touch.

The Garden & Outdoor Activities

Post-museum exploration, the experience moves outdoors to the garden area, where you can enjoy the sunshine and fresh air. This is the setting for more interactive elements, including planting seeds and playing traditional Greek games. It’s a chance for kids and adults alike to connect with the land and understand the roots of Greek food traditions.

Tasting Premium Olive Oils

Next, you’ll indulge in a sensory tasting of several high-quality olive oils. The hosts teach you how to recognize different aromas and flavors, helping you distinguish extra virgin olive oils from regular oils. Many reviews mention how educational and enjoyable this part is. “Learn how to recognize the characteristics of authentic extra virgin olive oil,” one reviewer shares, which is a great skill for seasoning your own dishes back home.

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Baking Your Own Olive Bread

Perhaps the highlight for many is the hands-on baking session. Guided by the hosts, you knead dough infused with herbs, and learn the secrets of traditional Greek olive bread. The process is straightforward, but the results are delicious—warm, fragrant, and perfect for dipping in good olive oil. Several reviews praise the hosts’ warmth and patience, with one saying, “Katerina was an incredible host and so good with our 3-year-old,” emphasizing how accessible and friendly the experience is.

The Light Meal and Local Flavors

After baking, everyone gathers to enjoy a light meal featuring local ingredients. Fresh salads, pies, and sweets are served, all dressed with the very oils you’ve just tasted. The emphasis on local gastronomy makes this a true taste of Naxos. One reviewer calls it “delicious and restful,” highlighting the quality and authenticity of the food.

Overall Duration & Logistics

This tour lasts about 2 hours, with small group sizes (limited to 8 participants). The intimacy means you get plenty of attention from guides and more room to ask questions. The starting time varies based on availability, so it’s wise to check ahead and book in advance.

Price & Value

At $64 per person, the tour offers excellent value given the mix of activities—museum tour, tasting, baking, and a meal—plus the chance to take home your homemade bread. The reviews echo this sentiment, with many describing it as “more than expected” and “a full experience at a reasonable cost.”

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for foodies, history buffs, and families wanting an authentic taste of Greek tradition. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy hands-on activities and interactive learning. The small-group setting ensures a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for travelers who prefer a more personal touch.

It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or children under 5, but for anyone who appreciates cultural authenticity and delicious food, this is a memorable addition to your Naxos trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 5 years old can participate. The activities are engaging for kids, especially baking and playing Greek games, but very young children or those with mobility issues might find some parts challenging.

Do I need any prior baking experience?
Not at all. The hosts guide you through the process step-by-step, making it suitable for beginners and experienced bakers alike.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Since part of the experience takes place outdoors, bring sun protection like sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, it’s designed to be engaging for all ages and includes craft activities for kids. Parents are required to stay with their children.

How long does the experience last?
Approximately 2 hours, including the museum tour, tasting, baking, and lunch.

Is transportation provided?
No, the tour starts and ends at the Eggares Olive Press Museum, so plan your own transportation.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Are there any dietary restrictions I should know about?
The menu features local ingredients and traditional dishes; specific dietary restrictions aren’t mentioned, so it’s best to inquire ahead.

Final Thoughts

The Naxos Olive Oil Tasting & Baking Tour offers an engaging, authentic window into Greek culture and cuisine. You’ll leave with not only a better understanding of how olive oil is made but also your own freshly baked olive bread and a newfound appreciation for the local flavors. It’s a perfect activity for those who love interactive experiences, delicious food, and cultural stories all in a relaxed, small-group setting.

This tour is especially valuable for travelers wanting a hands-on, memorable journey into Naxos’s culinary heart. If you’re a foodie or family looking to deepen your connection with Greek traditions, this experience is well worth the modest investment.

In summary, expect a well-organized, friendly, and delicious journey that combines history, taste, and craftsmanship. For a moderate price, you get to experience the inner workings of an ancient olive press, taste top-quality oils, and create your own bread—an authentic taste of Naxos you won’t forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: