Private Tour-Authentic Villages of Lasithi Olive Oil and Wine

Exploring Crete’s Lasithi Plateau through this private tour offers a chance to see the island’s traditional side — from ancient windmills to family-run olive oil mills. This carefully curated experience combines cultural sights, culinary delights, and scenic vistas, making it ideal for travelers who want a personalized, immersive look at one of Crete’s most picturesque regions. The tour’s highlight? A blend of authentic local interactions, historical landmarks, and tasting sessions that truly bring Crete’s rural charm to life.

What we especially appreciate about this experience is its well-organized itinerary and the personal touch that a private tour provides. The knowledgeable guide, Spyros, adds a layer of authenticity and storytelling that you won’t get in larger, more generic group excursions. However, as with any full-day experience, it’s worth considering the pace — some might find the itinerary packed, especially if they prefer a more relaxed exploration.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love authentic cultural encounters, appreciate good food and wine, and want to discover Crete beyond its beaches. If you’re after a day filled with scenic beauty, local history, and genuine interactions, this private tour ticks all those boxes.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour with your own group, ensuring a flexible and intimate outing.
• Cultural Highlights: Visits to historic sites like the 2400-year-old Platanus Tree and traditional windmills.
• Gourmet Tastings: Olive oils, local wines, Greek coffee, and raki are included, emphasizing authentic local flavors.
• Scenic Views: Breathtaking vistas of the mountains and countryside, perfect for photos and relaxing moments.
• In-depth Learning: Guides share insightful stories about Crete’s agricultural practices and local traditions.
• Convenience & Comfort: Transportation in a Mercedes Benz van, including pickup and drop-off from your accommodations.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Olive Oil at Omalia Olive Press

Your journey begins at a fourth-generation olive oil factory, where traditional methods meet modern techniques. The owner, who’s been involved for decades, expertly demonstrates how olives are pressed, blending age-old practices with contemporary equipment. The highlight here is tasting the freshly pressed olive oils, which showcase the diversity of flavors that Crete’s olives produce.

One reviewer mentioned, “The rich, golden olive oil tasted like a burst of sunshine,” emphasizing how freshly pressed oils can differ greatly from store-bought varieties. This stop isn’t just about tasting; it’s about understanding how central olive oil is to Cretan life — a symbol of health and vitality.

The Ancient Platanus Tree in Krasi

Next, we visit the 2400-year-old Platanus Tree, a living monument to resilience and longevity. Its colossal size and gnarled trunk make for a striking photo backdrop. The legend that it’s over two millennia old adds a layer of mystique; it’s like touching a piece of living history. The shade it provides is perfect for a moment of reflection amid the busy village square of Krasi.

A reviewer noted, “The tree’s weathered trunk told stories of centuries gone by,” showing how such natural landmarks can evoke a deep sense of connection to the past.

Windmills of Lasithi Plateau

No exploration of the area would be complete without stopping at the Windmills of Lasithi. These iconic structures, some dating back centuries, once harnessed the wind to process grain. Their unique architecture — simple, functional, yet charming — continues to draw admiration. The views here are spectacular, with mountain ranges in the background making a dramatic setting for photos.

Visitors often comment on how these windmills symbolize the ingenuity of local farmers. One guest shared, “Standing among the windmills, you feel a sense of pride for the resilience and resourcefulness of Crete’s ancestors.”

Artistic Experience at Psychro

In Psychro, a visit to local artisans gives you a glimpse into traditional craftsmanship. Watching artisans shape clay with finesse is captivating, and there’s even the option to try your hand at pottery. This part of the tour offers a hands-on experience, adding a personal touch to the day.

A reviewer loved the artistic aspect, saying, “Watching the artisans work made me appreciate the patience and skill involved in preserving these crafts.”

Village of Agios Georgios

Further along, the charming village of Agios Georgios features the windmills again, reinforcing their importance in local life. The peaceful atmosphere here is perfect for a quick stroll, soaking in the ambiance of a rural community where tradition still thrives.

Wine Tasting at Lasithi Mesa

Perhaps the most leisurely part of the day is the wine and coffee tasting session at Lasithi Mesa. Here, you’ll chat with locals, learning about their daily routines, while sampling some of Crete’s finest wines, Greek coffee, and raki. The atmosphere is warm, friendly, and very authentic, giving you a real sense of Cretan hospitality.

According to a reviewer, “The wines were excellent, and the conversation with the locals made the experience truly memorable.” It’s a great chance to relax and appreciate the simple pleasures of local life.

Tzermiado and Lunch in a Family Taverna

Tzermiado offers a charming glimpse into village life, with traditional architecture and scenic views. The highlight, however, is the lunch in a family-run tavern featuring dishes cooked in a wood oven, such as stuffed zucchini flowers, lamb, and moussaka.

While lunch isn’t included in the price, many guests find it well worth the extra cost for the fresh, flavorful, and authentic food. A previous visitor raved, “The stuffed vegetables and lamb were cooked to perfection, and the setting made it even more special.”

Aposelemis Dam and Scenic Return

On the way back, the Aposelemis Dam provides a stunning backdrop for photos and a moment of quiet reflection. It’s a modern engineering marvel that significantly impacts the island’s water management and sustainability efforts.

This stop offers a peaceful end to a busy day, with views of the reservoir and surrounding countryside. Travelers often comment on how impressive the dam looks and appreciate the scenic drive.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This tour offers a comprehensive look at Crete’s rural soul, making it ideal for those who want more than just beaches and resorts. It’s perfect for culture enthusiasts, food lovers, and curious travelers eager to learn about traditional agriculture, craftsmanship, and local life.

The private format ensures a relaxed pace, personalized attention, and flexibility to tailor the experience — whether you want more time at certain stops or specific sights. The inclusion of tastings and interactions makes it particularly appealing for foodies and wine lovers, while the scenic vistas and historic sites suit anyone with an interest in exploring Crete’s authentic side.

While the full-day schedule demands some energy, those who enjoy meaningful connections and scenic beauty will find this tour very rewarding. It’s a great value considering the exclusive access, expert guide, and the variety of experiences packed into one day.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel, port, or airport, with comfortable transportation in a Mercedes Benz van.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 7 to 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day of exploration.

How many people are in each group?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included but can be arranged as part of the experience. The tour includes tastings of olive oils, wines, Greek coffee, and raki.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, if you have specific sights or experiences you want to include, let the tour provider know. The guide can tailor the program accordingly.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. The tour involves walking but isn’t overly strenuous.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the full-day schedule and their interest level in cultural sites and tastings.

What is the cost for the whole group?
It’s $663.23 per group (up to 7 people), which offers good value considering the personalized experience and all inclusions.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, cancellations made 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. Less than 24 hours’ notice means no refund, so plan accordingly.

This private tour of Lasithi’s villages is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting an authentic, relaxed, and educational experience on Crete. From ancient landmarks to delicious local flavors, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for the island’s enduring charm and traditions.