Experience the authentic spirit of Crete with a private journey to the beautifully restored 18th-century village of Kapsaliana, where you’ll explore its historic olive mill and enjoy a guided tasting of exceptional extra virgin olive oils. Savor a traditional farm-to-table Cretan lunch and, if you wish, wander through the charming pottery village of Margarites to meet local artisans. With luxury transportation from your villa and the serenity of Crete’s countryside as your backdrop, this curated experience blends culture, flavor, and heritage into an unforgettable day.
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Private Departure:
Your day begins with a comfortable pick-up directly from your villa in a luxury Mercedes Vito, accompanied by your professional, English-speaking driver.
Arrival at Kapsaliana Village:
Step into the timeless charm of Kapsaliana, a beautifully restored 18th-century settlement dating back to 1763. Once part of the Arkadi Monastery’s network of olive-producing villages, Kapsaliana has been carefully revived into an elegant cultural refuge, preserving its stone architecture, traditional pathways, and authentic Cretan character.
Olive Oil Heritage & Tasting:
Visit the historic Old Olive Mill, which supplied the Arkadi Monastery for more than two centuries. Discover the origins of Cretan olive oil, learn about traditional and modern production techniques, and enjoy a guided tasting of premium extra virgin olive oil varieties. The experience blends history, culture, and gastronomy into a sensory journey that reveals why Cretan olive oil is considered among the finest in the world.
Farm-to-Table Dining:
Indulge in an exceptional traditional lunch at the renowned restaurant of Kapsaliana Village Hotel. Savor dishes crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients—hand-picked vegetables, local cheeses, free-range meats, aromatic herbs, and regional specialties prepared with creativity and respect for tradition.
(Please note: Food and drinks are not included in the tour price.)
Traditional Pottery Village:
For guests wishing to enrich their day further, an optional visit to Margarites Village can be added. Known for its long heritage in pottery, Margarites is home to some of Crete’s most skilled artisans. Wander through narrow streets, admire beautiful stone houses, watch potters at work, and discover unique handcrafted ceramics—perfect souvenirs that carry the essence of Cretan craftsmanship.
Relax and enjoy a scenic drive back through the Rethymno countryside.
You will return to your villa around 16:00–17:00, enriched with authentic experiences, flavors, and memories from the heart of Crete.
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Pick up & drop off
Wear Comfortable Footwear:
The experience includes walking through traditional stone paths and village areas. Choose comfortable, supportive shoes.
Dress for the Weather:
Light clothing, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended in summer; a light jacket is useful in spring and autumn.
Bring Water:
Staying hydrated is essential, especially on warm days.
Respect Cultural Sites:
Kapsaliana’s historic buildings and the Old Olive Mill are heritage sites. Please move carefully and respectfully.
Photography-Friendly:
Guests are welcome to take photos, but please be mindful of private areas and avoid using flash where restricted.
Are dietary restrictions or food allergies accommodated?
Yes, most dietary needs (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, nut-free) can be accommodated. Please mention any restrictions when booking so your host can prepare suitable alternatives.
Is this a private tour?
Yes, tours are private—only your group and the local host will be on the tour.
Is the cost of tastings included in the tour price?
Typically, the price covers a set number of food and drink tastings. See the description for exact details on what is included.
What types of food can we expect to try?
These tours feature a range of local specialties. The host will guide you through a variety of authentic bites, though exact dishes vary by destination and season.
Can children join the tour?
Yes, children are welcome. The host can often adjust the pace and tastings to suit younger participants. Let them know any specific needs in advance.
Does the tour include any sightseeing or cultural insights?
Although the focus is on food, some tours also offer interesting background about the local culture and neighborhoods you explore.
Is alcohol included in the tastings?
The tours include locally made alcoholic beverages, such as wine or raki, which are traditionally enjoyed by locals. If you prefer non-alcoholic alternatives or wish to have more alcohol-focused stops, please inform your host in advance.
Do you provide luggage storage?
Luggage storage is generally not provided. If you’re traveling with baggage, it’s best to arrange storage at your hotel or at a local storage facility beforehand.
Is hotel pickup included?
Hotel pickup is not included, as this is a walking tour with a designated meeting point. However, the starting point is chosen to be central and convenient. If you need advice on how to get there, feel free to contact your host in advance.
Can the tour accommodate prams or strollers?
Yes, tour can accommodate prams or strollers, though some areas may be challenging (e.g., cobblestone streets). Let the host know in advance so they can plan accordingly.
Can the tour be rescheduled if we're delayed?
If you expect a delay (e.g., due to flight changes), please contact your host as soon as possible. While the tour schedule itself cannot be altered, we will do our best to accommodate a change of date, subject to availability.
Can we focus on a particular type of cuisine (e.g. desserts, street food, wine)?
Our tour is thoughtfully designed to give participants a well-rounded experience — seeing, learning about, and tasting a variety of local products. If you would like a more specialized tour focused on a particular theme (e.g., desserts, street food, wine), please contact our platform to request availability and pricing for a customized experience.
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Driver & Vehicle Prices:
Fill in the booking form to check pricing & availability on your preferred travel date. Our pricing is constantly updated.
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