Rethymno: Eleftherna, Melidoni Cave, Honey & Olive Oil Tour

Crete’s rich heritage and natural wonders await on this captivating tour through Rethymno. Explore the ancient city of Eleutherna, unravel the myths of Melidoni Cave, and explore the island’s honey and olive oil traditions. With expert commentary, a traditional lunch, and convenient transportation, this 7-hour adventure offers an immersive glimpse into Crete’s vibrant culture. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking an authentic Cretan experience, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression. What secrets will you uncover on your journey through this enchanting corner of Greece?

Good To Know

• The 7-hour guided tour explores ancient Eleutherna, Melidoni Cave, a beekeeping lab, and an olive oil production facility near Rethymno.
• The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, transportation, entrance fees, and a traditional Cretan lunch.
• Highlights include visiting the Museum of Eleutherna, discovering mythical Melidoni Cave, and learning about Crete’s honey and olive oil production.
• Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and moderate walking ability are recommended for guests.
• Early booking is advised due to the tour’s high demand and limited availability.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Booking Details

This Rethymno tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore ancient historical sites, experience the local honey and olive oil production, and discover the natural wonder of the Melidoni Cave.

The tour departs from Rethymno and includes visits to the archaeological site of Eleutherna, the impressive Melidoni Cave, and the Apithano beekeeping lab and Paraschakis Olive Oil mill.

Priced at $183.38 per person, the 7-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, transportation, entrance fees, and lunch.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection. The tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues.

Advance reservations are advised, as this tour is likely to sell out.

Exploring Ancient Eleutherna

The ancient city of Eleutherna dates back to the 9th century BCE, showcasing a rich history spanning centuries.

This significant archaeological site was continuously inhabited through the Roman era, and systematic excavations began in the early 1980s.

The results of these excavations are now displayed in the Museum of Eleutherna, which opened in 2016.

Visitors can explore Eleutherna’s captivating past:

• Discover the ancient ruins and learn about the city’s vital role in the region’s history.
• Visit the Museum of Eleutherna to see the impressive artifacts and findings from the excavations.
• Gain a deeper understanding of the site’s cultural and historical significance.

Melidoni Cave: Mythical Hideaway

Situated approximately 30 km east of Rethymno, the Melidoni Cave, also known as Gerontospilios, is a captivating natural wonder associated with Greek mythology.

According to legend, the cave was a hiding place for the infant Zeus, the king of the gods.

Today, visitors can marvel at the cave’s impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations, which have been formed over thousands of years.

The Melidoni Cave offers a glimpse into the rich cultural and geological history of Crete, providing an immersive experience for those eager to explore the island’s natural treasures.

Honey Production at Apithano

Visiting the Apithano beekeeping lab in Melidoni village offers an immersive insight into Crete’s honey production.

The interactive exhibits showcase the region’s diverse honey varieties, their unique properties, and the time-honored extraction processes.

Visitors can expect to:

• Learn about the distinct flavor profiles and health benefits of Cretan honey
• Observe the intricate steps involved in harvesting and processing the golden nectar
• Gain a deeper appreciation for the industrious work of the island’s beekeepers

This educational experience provides a captivating window into the rich culinary heritage and sustainable practices that define Crete’s vibrant honey industry.

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Olive Oil History at Paraschakis

Beyond the captivating honey exhibits, the tour also ventures into the world of Crete’s revered olive oil production at the Paraschakis Olive Oil facility.

Visitors will explore the history of olive oil on the island, learning about the traditional methods used in the old olive mill. They’ll witness the process of extracting the freshly pressed olive oil and have the opportunity to taste this liquid gold.

Crete’s olive oil heritage is deeply rooted, and the Paraschakis facility offers a fascinating glimpse into this integral part of the island’s culture and culinary traditions.

Inclusions and Transportation

The tour package includes a comprehensive set of amenities to ensure a seamless and immersive experience.

Guests will enjoy hotel pick-up and drop-off in the Rethymno area, as well as transportation via an air-conditioned minivan. The tour is led by a knowledgeable, English-speaking driver/guide who’ll provide expert commentary throughout the day.

The tour includes:

• Entrance tickets to the Museum of Eleutherna and Melidoni Cave
• A traditional Cretan lunch at a local taverna
• Photo coverage to capture the highlights of the day

Travelers should wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water, as moderate walking is required during the tours.

Smoking and pets aren’t allowed.

Recommendations for Visitors

While the tour package covers the essential elements, there are a few additional recommendations for visitors to ensure a comfortable and enriching experience. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water to stay hydrated. Smoking and pets are not allowed during the tours. On top of that, the tour is not suitable for people with back problems or mobility impairments, as it involves moderate walking. To make the most of the experience, visitors should be prepared for the following:

What to Bring	What Not to Bring
Comfortable Shoes	Pets
Hat	Smoking
Camera
Sunscreen, Water

Tour Duration and Availability

As part of the Rethymno Tour package, the duration of the experience is set at 7 hours.

Visitors can choose from various starting times, depending on availability. The tour is likely to sell out, so it’s recommended to reserve your spot as soon as possible.

The key details regarding the tour’s duration and availability are:

• Duration: 7 hours
• Check availability for starting times
• Likely to sell out, so book early

Visitors can reserve their spot now and pay later, with the added benefit of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to the tour information, you can bring your own food and drinks, but a traditional Cretan lunch is included in the tour package. Bring any additional snacks or beverages you may want during the 7-hour tour.

Is There an Age Limit or Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

There is no age limit or minimum age requirement for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome, though the tour may not be suitable for young children due to the walking and duration.

Are There Any Special Discounts or Packages Available for the Tour?

There are no special discounts mentioned for this tour. However, the tour includes several site entries, transportation, and a traditional lunch, making it a good value for the price of $183.38 per person.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Specific Interests?

Customers can customize the tour itinerary to fit their specific interests. The tour provider offers flexibility, allowing visitors to prioritize the sites and activities that most appeal to them within the overall tour framework.

Is Wi-Fi Available During the Tour for Sharing Photos and Updates?

WiFi is not mentioned as an inclusion for this tour. Tour guests will likely need to rely on mobile data or find WiFi at the various stops along the way to share photos and updates during the 7-hour experience.

The Sum Up

This immersive tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Crete’s rich history, natural wonders, and culinary traditions. From the ancient ruins of Eleutherna to the captivating Melidoni Cave, visitors will gain insights into the island’s heritage. Complementing this are visits to acclaimed local producers of honey and olive oil, providing a well-rounded cultural experience. With convenient transportation and an expert guide, this tour is an excellent way to make the most of one’s time in Rethymno.

You can check availability for your dates here: