Wine & Olive Oil Tour with lunch at the White Mountains

Exploring Crete’s Heartlands: A Detailed Look at the Wine & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch at the White Mountains

This tour promises a journey beyond Crete’s popular beaches, offering a taste of the island’s rugged beauty, authentic flavors, and rich traditions. With a focus on local wines, extra virgin olive oil, and stunning mountain scenery, it’s designed for travelers seeking a more intimate and genuine experience. What makes this tour particularly appealing is the small-group format—capped at just six people—ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed pace.

One of the biggest draws is the combination of wine and olive oil tastings at a family-owned winery, coupled with scenic drives through the White Mountains and the chance to explore Samaria Gorge’s famous entrance. It’s a well-rounded day packed with cultural insights, delicious food, and breathtaking views. The only notable thing to consider is the weather, as this tour operates in all conditions, but be prepared for potentially chilly mountain air or rain.

This experience is best suited for those who love authentic local flavors, scenic landscapes, and personalized service. If you’re after a laid-back, informative, and visually stunning day away from crowded tours, this could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Small group size guarantees a more intimate and personalized experience
• Authentic tastings of five different Cretan wines and organic olive oil
• Beautiful scenic drives through the White Mountains, including the Samaria Gorge entrance
• Delicious traditional lunch with wine at 4000 ft altitude
• Expert guides with extensive knowledge and engaging personalities
• Convenient pickups from many Chania hotels make logistics simple

An Authentic Taste of Crete: What the Tour Offers

This tour is more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s a carefully curated experience that combines natural beauty, cultural insights, and culinary delights. Starting at the Olive Tree Museum of Vouves, you’re greeted with the chance to touch a 3,000-year-old olive tree still producing fruit. This isn’t a typical tourist stop—it’s a meaningful encounter with one of Crete’s oldest living symbols. Visitors mention enjoying a coffee here and exploring a small, traditional farm, setting the tone for a genuine journey into local life.

Next up is the Anoskeli Winery Olive Mill, where the focus shifts to tasting extra virgin and organic olive oils alongside local wines. Reviewers like Michele_W and Linda_P applaud the quality of the tastings; one mentions the “interesting and informative” olive and wine tastings that truly highlight Crete’s agricultural pride. The winery’s family-owned vibe and the chance to sample five different labels make this a highlight, especially for food and drink enthusiasts. It’s clear that the wine and olive oil are not just souvenirs but authentic products crafted with care.

The scenic drive into the Chania Prefecture is where the tour really begins to show its mountain-based magic. The route crosses through Sebronas Gorge, giving you a glimpse of the White Mountains’ rugged terrain. Reviewers like Andrew_S and Steve_M appreciate the expert driving on challenging roads, often commenting on the safety and skill of the guides. Expect to see such sights as the Omalos Plateau, perched at 1,000 meters above sea level, where shepherds tend their flocks year-round. You might even meet some shepherds, adding a layer of genuine local interaction.

The highlight for many is the visit to Samaria Gorge’s entrance, at 1200 meters altitude, where you can take in the dramatic surroundings and, if you choose, enjoy lunch at a restaurant with breathtaking views of the White Mountains and Mount Pachnes (2,453 meters). Reviewers consistently praise the lunch experience—a hearty, traditional meal served at a lofty altitude, with a view that truly enhances the flavor of the food and wine.

Driving downhill from the mountains, the landscape shifts from pine forests and cypress trees to lush citrus and olive groves, offering a visual feast that travelers describe as spectacular. Stops at villages like Lakki, Fournes, and Alikianos showcase Crete’s countryside life, with some reviewers noting the beautiful scenery and the variety of landscapes as a big plus.

The Authentic Experience: What You’re Actually Doing

Olive Tree Museum of Vouves
The tour begins with a visit to a small museum dedicated to olive cultivation—a key part of Crete’s identity. Touching the ancient olive tree is just the start; you’ll learn about the long history of olive growing on the island. Visitors say this stop is a perfect way to connect with Crete’s agricultural roots and enjoy a quick coffee or tea while soaking in the atmosphere.

Anoskeli Winery Olive Oil and Wine Tasting
This is the heart of the tour. Tasting five different wines along with organic olive oils, you’ll experience the variety and richness of Crete’s terroir. The winery’s family-owned nature shines through, and reviewers like Michele_W describe the experience as “amazing” and an eye-opener into local craftsmanship. The wine labels are local and authentic, making each sip a conversation with the land.

Scenic Mountain Drive
Traveling in a top-quality 4WD vehicle, you’ll cross Sebronas Gorge and approach the White Mountains from the west. The drive itself is a highlight, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of dramatic cliffs, mountain peaks, and the lush Omalos Plateau. The guides are praised for their knowledge and driving skills, making the sometimes challenging roads feel safe and part of the adventure.

Omalos Plateau and Samaria Gorge
Perched at 1,000 meters, the plateau offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. From here, you can admire the entrance to Europe’s longest gorge, which you might recognize from many hiking pictures. If weather permits, you’ll enjoy a lunch at 4000 ft, where the meal is hearty and flavorful, accompanied by local wines or beer. Many reviewers highlight the spectacular scenery and the delicious food.

Descending through the Mountains
The final part of the day involves driving down through villages with scenic views of citrus groves—lemon, orange, avocado—before returning to Chania. Stops at viewpoints at 1000 meters altitude provide excellent photo ops, and travelers love seeing the diversity of Crete’s landscapes in one day.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

The small group size is a huge bonus; with just six travelers, everyone gets personalized attention, more opportunities to ask questions, and a relaxed pace. The guides are widely praised across reviews for their knowledgeability and engaging personalities—from Nicolas to Dimitris and Vassilis, all reportedly deliver a friendly, informative experience.

The combination of scenic drives, cultural stops, and tastings offers a well-rounded snapshot of the region’s natural beauty and local traditions. The lunch at high altitude is repeatedly called a highlight, offering not only delicious food but also a chance to enjoy stunning mountain views.

Pricing at about $172 per person might seem steep compared to large bus tours, but the reviews make clear that the value is in the personalized attention, quality tastings, and scenic authenticity. It’s not just about ticking boxes; it’s about savoring each experience and connecting with Crete’s genuine side.

Practical Info and Tips

The tour operates with pickups available from many Chania hotels, simplifying logistics. It lasts about 7 to 8 hours, with plenty of time allocated for each stop, ensuring a comfortable experience without feeling rushed. The tour is offered in all weather conditions—just dress smart casual and be prepared for mountain chill or rain.

Children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult, and there are vegetarian options available if notified in advance. The tour is a private experience only from the provider, which means a more customized feel compared to larger group excursions.

The minimum drinking age of 18 means this is a relaxed adult-focused experience—ideal for couples, friends, or small groups wanting a quieter, more meaningful day.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re after an authentic, scenic, and flavorful day away from the crowds, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s perfect for food and wine lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates small-group, personalized service. The carefully curated stops, stunning vistas, and engaging guides make it a worthwhile investment, especially if you want to see Crete’s mountains and countryside in a relaxed, meaningful way.

However, if you prefer a fast-paced, activity-heavy day or are traveling on a tight schedule, this might feel a bit leisurely. Also, keep in mind the weather—mountain visits can be chilly or rainy—so pack accordingly.

This experience offers a balanced mix of culture, scenery, and indulgence, making it a memorable way to get to know Crete’s less-traveled regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup available from my hotel in Chania?
Yes, the tour offers pickups from many hotels within 5 km east and 25 km west of Chania, making it convenient regardless of your location.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 7 to 8 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop at a relaxed pace.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers small group transportation in a 4WD vehicle, olive oil and wine tastings, a traditional lunch with wine or beer, coffee or tea, bottled water, and insurance.

Can I participate if I have dietary restrictions?
Vegetarian options are available; it’s best to advise at the time of booking to ensure your needs are accommodated.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children can join but must be accompanied by an adult. Note that the minimum drinking age is 18.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A comfortable, full A/C 4WD vehicle is used, ideal for the mountain roads, which most larger buses can’t navigate.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Expect visits to the Olive Tree Museum, tastings at the family-owned winery, drives through the White Mountains, and the scenic Samaria Gorge entrance.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

How many people are in each group?
Up to 6 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience with personalized attention.

Is the tour offered as a private experience?
Yes, from the tour provider, ensuring a more tailored and private journey compared to larger group excursions.

In summary, this White Mountains wine and olive oil tour offers an authentic, scenic, and delicious way to explore Crete’s interior. With expert guides, stunning views, and genuine tastings, it’s a perfect choice for those wanting to see a different side of the island—one filled with flavor, history, and natural beauty.