Zeuss Birthplace- Old Villages-Olive Oil Factory- Small Group

If you’re dreaming of peeling away from the tourist-heavy resorts and really experiencing the heart of Crete, this small group tour promises a genuine encounter with local life. The itinerary takes you beyond the usual, into traditional villages, past old windmills, through the Lasithi Plateau, and even to a local olive oil factory—with an optional visit to Knossos Palace at the end.

What sets this tour apart? First, the chance to walk through narrow streets in ancient villages where it feels like time has stood still. Second, the well-rounded stories about local traditions, culture, and myths that your guide shares along the way. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience designed to show you real Crete, not just its highlights but its soul.

A potential consideration is that the lunch is optional and not included in the base price, so if you’re hungry after all that exploring, you’ll want to budget for a meal. Also, this tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate a small, intimate group (max 12), and who enjoy learning at a relaxed pace rather than rushing from site to site. If you’re after authentic experiences, scenic views, and local storytelling, this tour offers excellent value.

This experience will appeal most to travelers curious about local traditions, history buffs, and those who want an off-the-beaten-path look at Crete’s countryside. It’s also ideal if you prefer comfortable, air-conditioned transport and a personalized touch with knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Authentic Crete: Visit traditional villages and see how locals live.
• Olive Oil Insights: Learn about olive oil production and taste different varieties.
• Scenic Drive: Ride up to the Lasithi Plateau at 900 m, enjoying panoramic views.
• Historical Highlights: Optional visit to Knossos Palace for ancient civilization.
• Small Group Benefits: Max 12 travelers for a more personal experience.
• Flexible Tour Options: Standard small group or private tour available.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

An Authentic Start: Traditional Villages and Narrow Streets

Your journey begins with a pickup from your hotel, cruise port, or preferred meeting point, in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle equipped with free Wi-Fi. From there, you’ll head into the heart of Crete—away from the bustling resorts—to explore narrow, winding streets of old villages.

We loved the way these villages feel frozen in time, with stone houses, tiny chapels, and local artisans at work. The guide’s stories about local life and customs bring the scenery alive, helping you appreciate the cultural fabric of Crete. As one reviewer noted, “You feel like you’re stepping back in time.”

Olive Oil Factory: A Tasty, Educational Stop

Next, the tour takes you to an olive oil factory, a highlight for many visitors. Here, you’ll learn about the entire process of olive oil production, from harvesting olives to bottling. The tasting session lets you savor different types of olive oils—a real treat for food lovers. One guest remarked, “Loved the olive oil factory tour—wish there was more olive oil tasting and honey,” reflecting the genuine interest and quality of this stop.

Our guides are very knowledgeable, explaining the health benefits, traditional methods, and regional varieties of olive oil. The tasting is included, so you can decide which flavors you prefer and perhaps bring home a bottle.

Mountain Drive and Lasithi Plateau at 900 Meters

The next leg of the trip takes you up to the Lasithi Plateau, perched at around 900 meters above sea level. The scenery here is truly spectacular, with rolling hills, white windmills, and distant mountain peaks. You’ll learn about the old windmills, many of which are still standing as reminders of traditional energy sources.

The views from the plateau are often described as breathtaking, with many travelers stopping for photos and to soak in the panoramic vistas. The drive itself, in a well-maintained vehicle, is smooth and comfortable, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the scenery without fatigue.

Optional Cretan Lunch at a Mountain Family Restaurant

After all the sightseeing, you can opt for a traditional Cretan lunch at a family-run restaurant up on the mountain. The meal is not included in the base price, but many find it well worth the extra cost for a chance to enjoy authentic local cuisine. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and it’s a great opportunity to interact with locals.

Multiple reviews praise this part of the tour, emphasizing that the lunch adds a special touch—a chance to relax, chat, and experience genuine Cretan hospitality.

The Grand Finale: Knossos Palace or Customizable Visits

The last stop is Knossos Palace, the most famous Minoan archaeological site in Greece. While it’s an optional part of the tour, many guests choose to include it for a glimpse into Europe’s oldest civilization. The guided tour of Knossos offers insights into ancient Minoan culture, legends, and architecture.

If history isn’t your main interest, you can customize the trip to include a visit to the Archaeological Museum or even a local winery, depending on your preferences. The tour provider is flexible and eager to tailor the experience to your wishes.

Return and Reflection

After a full day of exploration, the journey concludes with a comfortable drive back to your hotel or cruise ship. The tour’s small group size ensures a relaxed atmosphere, and your guide will be happy to answer any lingering questions or share local tips.

What Travelers Say: Authenticity and Guides Shine

Feedback from previous participants highlights the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery. One reviewer raved, “Mike was an unfassbar aufmerksam and liebevoller guide,” emphasizing the personal attention and caring attitude. Another noted the avoidance of sales pitches, making it a truly relaxed day.

The olive oil tasting is frequently praised, with comments like “Loved the olive oil factory tour,” and “We wish there was more honey tasting.” The scenic drives and mountain views continually receive high praise, with many travelers saying they appreciated the chance to see real Crete.

Analyzing the Value

At a price of $131.37 per person, the tour offers substantial value. It covers transportation, guided storytelling, tastings, and optional meals—elements that would otherwise be costly if booked separately. The small group size and customizable options add to the overall experience, giving you a more intimate and flexible visit.

While lunch is optional, many travelers find it enriches the day, providing a chance to enjoy authentic Cretan cuisine in a relaxed mountain setting. The inclusion of free Wi-Fi and bottled water on board adds comfort, especially during the longer drives.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for those who want to see Crete beyond the beaches. It suits travelers who appreciate culture, historic sites, and local flavors. If you like scenic drives, learning about traditional industries like olive oil, and enjoy a small-group setting, you’ll find this tour hits the sweet spot.

It also caters well to families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a balanced, authentic day out. Those who prefer a more relaxed pace and personal interaction will especially enjoy the small group dynamic.

The Sum Up: Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

For travelers eager to discover the true character of Crete, this tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience. It balances scenic beauty, cultural insights, and delicious local tastes in a way that feels natural and unforced. The knowledgeable guides and authentic stops make it a compelling choice for anyone wanting more than just the typical tourist highlights.

If you’re interested in learning about local traditions, tasting regional products, and viewing Crete’s stunning landscapes—this tour provides great value and memorable moments. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy small, intimate group settings and want to customize parts of their day to suit personal interests.

FAQ

Is transportation provided from my hotel? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel, cruise port, or meeting point, in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle.

How long does the tour last? The full experience takes approximately 8 hours, including travel time and stops.

Can I upgrade to a private tour? Yes, a private option is available, providing a more personalized experience tailored to your schedule and interests.

Is lunch included? No, lunch is optional and not included in the base price, but there is a family restaurant on the mountain where you can enjoy a traditional meal.

What’s the maximum group size? The tour is limited to 12 travelers, making it more intimate and allowing for better interaction with your guide.

What should I wear? Comfortable clothes suitable for walking, and consider layers for mountain and village stops. Sunglasses and sunblock are recommended.

Are there any age restrictions? Most travelers can participate, but always check with the provider if traveling with young children or those with mobility concerns.

Will I see archaeological sites? The optional visit to Knossos Palace is included, but you can customize the tour to focus on other interests like wineries or museums.

Is this tour suitable for photography? Absolutely. The views from the Lasithi Plateau and the villages offer plenty of photo opportunities at every turn.

To sum it up, this tour is a thoughtfully crafted way to experience the real Crete—its traditions, landscapes, and flavors—without the rush. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or someone eager for scenic beauty and local stories, it’s a day well spent.