Rethymnon: Kournas Lake, Argyroupolis, and Olive Oil Tour

The "Rethymnon: Kournas Lake, Argyroupolis, and Olive Oil Tour" offers visitors an immersive journey through Crete’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. Spanning a full day, this captivating excursion allows participants to explore the serene Kournas Lake, uncover the charming village of Argyroupolis, and gain insights into the island’s renowned olive oil production. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, the tour provides an excellent opportunity to savor Cretan delicacies and delve deeper into the region’s vibrant traditions. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking an authentic Cretan experience, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Crete.

Good To Know

• This 7-hour guided tour takes visitors to Kournas Lake, Argyroupolis village, and a local olive oil mill in Crete’s Rethymnon region.
• Highlights include swimming in the only freshwater lake in Crete, exploring the charming Argyroupolis, and learning about traditional Cretan olive oil production.
• The tour offers a comprehensive experience of Crete’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and local cuisine, with transportation and hotel pickup/drop-off included.
• The tour is suitable for adults and children, with a flexible cancellation policy and a high customer satisfaction rating of 4.7/5 stars.
• Key attractions include the picturesque Kournas Lake, the scenic Argyroupolis village, and a locally-owned olive oil mill showcasing Crete’s agricultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour is titled "Rethymnon: Kournas Lake, Argyroupolis, and Olive Oil Tour" and is priced from $27.63 per person.

It lasts 7 hours and is available in English and French.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Pickup is included from designated areas in Crete.

The tour visits Kournas Lake, the only freshwater lake in Crete, where you can swim and dine on Cretan delicacies.

Next, it explores Argyroupolis, known for its beautiful watersprings and rich vegetation.

Itinerary Highlights

While on the tour, visitors can explore Kournas Lake, the only freshwater lake in Crete, where they’ve opportunities for swimming and dining on Cretan delicacies at nearby taverns.

The tour also takes guests to Argyroupolis, known for its beautiful watersprings and rich vegetation.

Plus, you will tour a local olive oil mill to learn about the production of Crete’s famous olive oil.

The tour provides a comprehensive experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.

Transportation and Logistics

How is transportation and logistics handled for this tour? The tour offers convenient pickup and drop-off from various locations, including Panormo, Skaleta, Stavromenos, and Rethymnon City. Participants will be transported in an air-conditioned coach, ensuring a comfortable journey. Plus, an extra charge of €18 per booking applies for certain areas. The tour’s transportation and logistics are designed to provide a smooth and hassle-free experience for the participants.

Pickup Locations	Panormo	Skaleta	Stavromenos	Rethymnon City
Pickup Included	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Extra Charge	€18	€18	€18	€18
Transportation	Air-conditioned Coach	Air-conditioned Coach	Air-conditioned Coach	Air-conditioned Coach

Participant Information

Participants of the Rethymnon Tour can include adults aged 13 to 99, children aged 4 to 12, and infants 3 and younger.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.

Recommended items for the tour include comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hats, and cameras.

Pets and smoking aren’t allowed.

The tour’s overall rating is 4.7/5 based on 93 reviews, with highlights including excellent guides, quality transportation, and good value for money.

Participants have provided positive feedback on the tour’s organization, clear instructions, and appropriate time allocation at each location.

More Great Tours Nearby

Customer Reviews and Ratings

The Rethymnon Tour boasts an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 93 reviews.

Travelers have praised the tour for several key reasons:

• Excellent guides who are knowledgeable and engaging
• High-quality transportation that ensures a comfortable experience
• Excellent value for money, with the tour offering a great deal for the price
• Clear instructions and a well-organized itinerary that maximizes time at each location
• Opportunities to learn about Cretan culture and cuisine, from the freshwater lake to the olive oil production

Discovering Kournas Lake

One of the highlights of the Rethymnon Tour is the visit to Kournas Lake, Crete’s only freshwater lake.

Nestled at the base of the White Mountains, Kournas Lake offers visitors a chance to swim, explore its serene surroundings, and indulge in traditional Cretan fare at nearby taverns.

The lake’s crystal-clear waters and lush vegetation create a picturesque setting, making it a popular spot for both relaxation and outdoor activities.

Guests can also learn about the lake’s unique ecosystem and its importance to the local community.

The visit to Kournas Lake provides a refreshing escape from the bustling streets of Rethymnon, allowing participants to enjoy the natural beauty of Crete.

Exploring Argyroupolis

After visiting the serene Kournas Lake, the tour then proceeds to the charming village of Argyroupolis.

Known for its beautiful watersprings and rich vegetation, Argyroupolis offers a glimpse into traditional Cretan life.

Visitors can explore the:

• Picturesque town square with its quaint cafes and shops
• Impressive ancient ruins and Byzantine churches
• Cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear streams
• Lush forests and hiking trails
• Friendly locals who warmly welcome guests to their community

The tour provides ample time to wander through Argyroupolis, allowing travelers to enjoy the area’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Olive Oil Production

Following the tour of the charming village of Argyroupolis, the Rethymnon Tour guides visitors to a local olive oil mill.

Here, they learn about the production of Crete’s famous olive oil. Visitors observe the entire process, from the harvesting of olives to the extraction and bottling of the oil.

They discover the importance of traditional methods in maintaining the high quality and distinct flavor of Cretan olive oil. The tour highlights the region’s rich agricultural heritage and the dedication of local producers in preserving this integral part of the Mediterranean diet.

Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the art of olive oil production and the unique terroir of Crete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring Snacks and Water on the Tour?

Yes, passengers are generally allowed to bring snacks and water on the tour. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm any specific policies or restrictions regarding bringing outside food and drinks.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required?

There doesn’t appear to be a minimum number of participants required for this tour. The tour operates with a flexible group size and individual bookings are accepted. The tour can proceed with a single participant if necessary.

Can I Modify the Itinerary to Spend More Time at a Specific Location?

The tour operator may allow customers to modify the itinerary, but this would depend on the availability and logistics of the tour. Customers should inquire about customization options when booking to ensure they can spend more time at their desired locations.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for Swimming at Kournas Lake?

You don’t need any special equipment for swimming at Kournas Lake. Swimsuits, towels, and sun protection are all that’s recommended. The lake has shallow, calm waters suitable for a refreshing dip.

Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

The tour description doesn’t mention a private tour option. It appears to only offer a group tour. Travelers interested in a private tour would need to inquire with the tour operator directly about availability and pricing.

The Sum Up

The "Rethymnon: Kournas Lake, Argyroupolis, and Olive Oil Tour" offers a captivating exploration of Crete’s natural and cultural highlights. Visitors can enjoy swimming in Kournas Lake, discover the charming village of Argyroupolis, and tour a local olive oil mill, gaining insights into traditional production methods. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to experience Crete’s vibrant heritage and savor its delectable delicacies.

You can check availability for your dates here: