Archanes

Tours

Embark on an enchanting journey through the heart of Crete, where the vibrant tapestry of its culture and culinary legacy unfolds before you. Kickstart your adventure at an olive mill, where the air is redolent with the essence of olives, and immerse yourself in the time-honored craft of olive oil extraction. Discover the customs and rituals that define Cretan cuisine, as you delve into the roots of the island's gastronomic heritage. Next, venture to a charming micro-winery and raki distillery nestled amidst sun-drenched vineyards, where the magical art of winemaking and distillation unveils the secrets behind Crete's renowned indigenous grape varieties and beloved spirit. Engage your senses in a delightful wine tasting featuring four distinct wines, followed by spirited raki tastings, offering an authentic glimpse into the soul of the island. Savor a sumptuous feast of Cretan delicacies, each dish a harmonious blend of local flavors. As the gentle breeze carries the sounds of laughter and the clinking of glasses, the meal evolves into a jubilant celebration of tradition, forging a profound connection between Crete's culinary richness and the authentic charm of Cretan terroir.

Every day we organize safari with Quad 450cc/550cc, Buggy1000cc (automatic), Monster800cc and Jeep. Our adventure starts in the small village of Karteros, where we will have a 30-minute briefing on safety and instructions on operating ATVs. (Only Quad ) We start by passing a deep stream at the end of which we will come across a cave of historical importance, where we will stop for a while. (Only Jeep & Buggy) Our next stop will be in the forest near the church of St. Irene, where we will visit the old church and enjoy the countryside. ***The route is subject to change due to unfore seen circumstances (Only Quad )Τhen we will climb to the highest hill in the area where we will enjoy the panoramic view of the area of Heraklion. Αnd we return through the village of Passa in the direction of Karteros gorge. (Only Jeep & Buggy)We will continue to the Mt. Juktas Ecological Park in Archanes, an extraordinary archaeological site of Fourni where we will see the Municipal Contemporary Theater and enjoy the panoramic views. ***The route is subject to change due to unfore seen circumstances After we will continue our route and explore the Gorge of Karteros. All the way through our journey we will have the opportunity to take photos of some of Crete’s most amazing scenery, and our guide will share information about each location we visit. We’ll have lunch at an Greek tavern. To finish our adventure, we will make our last stop at Karteros beach for a swim (if the weather is good). Note: the remaining time is for the round tour.

In this tour you will have the opportunity to try the best quality of Cretan pure virgin olive oil, as we start by visiting an Olive Oil Mill. You will learn about the olive oil production now and in the past and enjoy a tour in the facilities. You will understand first-hand, that what makes Cretan olive oil stand out is not only its high quality and distinctive flavor but also the process of preserving its nutritional values on the production stage. Next stop is to a local winery, where you will try 3 different varieties of wine. It appears that passion can be bottled, and this must be the ingredient that makes Cretan wine taste so unique along with the fact that the wine history on the island stretches back at least 3500 years! Furthermore, in a Cretan “kazani” that we will visit next you will learn about the traditional way of producing Cretan raki and through this process you will understand where past and future overlap. If you are curious to understand the traditions and ways of raki distillation, this is an experiential path. This tour would not be complete, without a stop in a Cretan Restaurant. If you haven’ t tasted a Greek meal before, be prepared to be surprised. As the whole experience will cultivate your imagination, openness and awaken your senses, it will lead to a deep understanding of the Cretan values and customs. It is a travel in time that will make you eager to connect and explore more.

indulge in personalized service from our top local drivers with specialist knowledge in the comfort of a chauffeured luxury vehicle. Where there is culture, there is wine. Let us take you to the heart of Central Crete and specifically to the enchanting valley of Peza, a rich Minoan land with olive groves and red soils. Here you will discover a winery to taste Cretan indigenous varieties with divine aromas and flavors. Enchanted by the Cretan land, its history, and its products, it is impossible not to visit the magical village of Ano Archanes with its beautiful streets and old houses. One of the few places visited by the current King of England Charles. A magical place to enjoy a local meal cooked with much love and care. Take the stellar ruins and sumptuous frescoes of the Palace of Knossos, and appreciate them in a way that few will have the opportunity to do. Immerse yourself in labyrinthine wonder as we transport you back to a time when myth and history were indistinguishable.

If you were to travel all over Crete, crossing it from coast to coast, you would be astounded by the abundance of exceptional dishes and the unique traditional products that you’ll discover. Cretan recipes are based on Traditional local products such as honey, herbs, vegetables, meat and olive oil, and many more that complete the palette of Cretan gastronomy. Some of the best and most distinctive recipes have been collected and presented in our place by our Cooks through Traditional Cooking Classes. • You'll get hands-on training from a professional local Cook. • You'll learn new cooking techniques that can easily be repeated at home. • You'll discover our traditions and learn historical tips about our unique cuisine. • Vegetarians are welcome. Let me know in advance if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies.

If you were to travel all over Crete, crossing it from coast to coast, you would be astounded by the abundance of exceptional dishes and the unique traditional products that you’ll discover. Cretan recipes are based on Traditional local products such as honey, herbs, vegetables, meat and olive oil, and many more that complete the palette of Cretan gastronomy. Some of the best and most distinctive recipes have been collected and presented in our place by our Cooks through Traditional Cooking Classes. • You'll get hands-on training from a professional local Cook. • You'll learn new cooking techniques that can easily be repeated at home. • You'll discover our traditions and learn historical tips about our unique cuisine. • Vegetarians are welcome. Let me know in advance if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies.

Embark on a delightful journey through the picturesque landscapes of Crete, with our Olive Oil and Winery Small Group Tour! Experience the essence of Cretan culture as you delve into the rich traditions of olive oil and winemaking, accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide. Your adventure begins with a visit to a charming olive grove, where you'll learn about the ancient art of olive oil production. From the cultivation of olive trees to the pressing process, discover the secrets behind Crete's renowned olive oil. Savor the flavors of freshly pressed olive oil during a tasting session, where you'll indulge in the distinct aromas and robust tastes that characterize Cretan olive oil. Next, journey to a local winery nestled in the rolling hills of Crete's countryside. Here, you'll be greeted with warm hospitality as you explore the vineyards and cellars. Immerse yourself in the world of Cretan wines as you learn about the unique grape varieties and winemaking techniques that define the region. Cap off your experience with a guided wine tasting, where you'll sample a selection of exquisite wines. With small group sizes ensuring an intimate experience, this tour promises an unforgettable journey filled with unforgettable flavors and memories. Join us for a day of gastronomic delights and cultural immersion on our Small Group Olive Oil and Winery Tour.

Your day will start with a pickup from your hotel where you will travel to the Archanes region. In a small and friendly group you have the opportunity to visit one of the last olive oil family domains and learn the secrets of Cretan extra virgin oil. You'll also visit a dynamic boutique winery, take a guided tour amongst its facilities and discover more about the magic world of wine production, terroir, and local grape varietals. Partake in a sensational visit to a family estate and a traditional olive mill. The owners will lead you to their production area and introduce you to the fantastic world of extra virgin olive oil. This will be followed by some olive oil sample tasting. You will also have a chance to taste other local products. Next up, meet a promising and dynamic winemaker who will guide you through his winery and domain. Get exclusive access to the facilities and get a glimpse into the production process. Then, after a wine presentation, you will experience a wine tasting featuring 5 different varieties made on the island. After your winery tour, visit a traditional restaurant and taste true Cretan mezze cooking for lunch. Enjoy prepared plates consisting of warm and cold traditional mezzes featuring salads, grilled cheese, olive fritters, different meats and vegetable plates. Whilst here, continue your wine tasting and sample a sweet desert wine to aid digestion.

Our adventure begins with a seamless hotel pick-up. As we make our way towards the vibrant city of Heraklion, our first destination awaits – the Heraklion Museum and Venetian Walls. Spend 1.5 hours delving into the depths of Cretan history and culture, as you explore the museum’s vast collection of artifacts and marvel at the imposing Venetian Walls that encircle the city. Next, we journey back in time to the ancient city of Knossos, a place steeped in myth and legend. Our quest for cultural enrichment continues with a visit to Lyrarakis Winery, where the art of winemaking takes center stage. Indulge in a 45-minute tasting session, savoring the flavors of locally-produced wines amidst the scenic beauty of the Cretan countryside. As our appetites are whetted, we venture into the charming village of Archanes for a leisurely stroll and a sumptuous lunch. We will spend approximately 2 hours meandering through its quaint streets, soaking in the ambiance of this idyllic locale, and indulging in the delectable flavors of Cretan cuisine. As the day draws to a close, we bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes of Crete and embark on the journey back to your hotel.

Heraklion, the capital of Crete, keeps some of its beauties, well hidden! Scenic routes and villages around the Mount Youchtas and the Asterousia, ancient palaces and, of courser great wineries. The Archanes-Asteroussia municipality of Nikos Kazantzakis which you will be entering, consists of small villages and combines the beauty of rural paysage with the energy of young people who choose to live here. Leaving the city of Heraklion and heading southeast, towards Skalani village, you will come across the Palace of Knossos. On your way to the wineries or back, do not miss a guided tour in the site where you will explore the amazing history of the Minoans. On the road towards the village of Kounavi, you will be surrounded by vineyards interlaced with olive trees, with the last being the dominant agricultural activity on the island. “Kanavesn means bold wineries” and many say that the village of Kounavi took its name from the word – Titakis winery is here! our very first stop for an exceptional wine-tasting experience. Our second winery will be Digenakis Winery. A new boutique winery, fairly new but with great wines. A hidden gem. A winery and cellar tour will be followed by a wine tasting of 5 indigenous varieties. Following the way back to the city, you will be filled with euphoria. You will have visited one of Crete's areas where its first man walked and created: wine and culture!