Elounda: Soap, Olive, Wine, Raki - Flavorful Culinary Journey
Active
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
What sets our tour apart? Simple: it’s not a show — it’s real life, the way it’s been lived in Crete for generations. This isn’t a rushed sightseeing checklist. It’s a day stitched together with soul: soap-making with hands that smell like thyme and olive oil, olive groves older than your family tree, raki that bites back (the good kind), and a meal in Archanes that tastes like it was made by your yiayia — if she happened to be a village chef with a wicked sense of humor.
Our journey isn’t just about tasting Cretan life — it’s about understanding it. You’ll walk the land, meet the people, and share a table, not with actors, but with farmers, makers, and storytellers. You won’t leave with a fridge magnet; you’ll leave with olive oil under your nails, a new appreciation for rakomelo, and maybe a dance step or two you didn’t plan on learning. This is Crete with the volume turned up. Ready?
Book now—cheers to an unforgettable day in Crete!
Available options
Elounda & Agios Nikolaos Rate
Pick-up Locatiosn: Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, Amoudara, Istro, Kalo Chorio, Milatos, and Sisi<br/>Soap Making Workshop<br/>Small Group Tour<br/>Duration: 7 hours<br/>Lunch: Full course meal at a local tavern in Elia Village<br/>Visiting Venues: An Olive Mill Factory with olive oil tastings
A microwinery distillery with wine and raki tastings
A Local Beepkeep <br/>7 or 8 seater Minivan<br/>Pickup included
What's included
English-speaking guide throughout the tour
Traditional Cretan lunch at Elia Village (includes a selection of local dishes)
Micro-winery - Raki Distilery Visit with wine and raki tastings
Honey Tasting at local venue of a Beekeeper
Pick-up & drop-off from designated locations
Comfortable transportation with an experienced driver
Olive Mill and Olive Grove visit with olive oil tastings
Soap Making Workshop
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1: Family Soap Workshop – Crafting Tradition by Hand
Start your day wrapped in the scent of olive oil and mountain herbs. Visit a family-run soap workshop where generations have transformed nature’s bounty into handmade treasures. Learn their story, watch the process, and create your own natural soap to take home — a fragrant souvenir of your time in Crete.
✅ Presentation of the family’s soap-making history
✅ Hands-on soap workshop experience
✅ Discover the role of olive oil in traditional soap-making
✅ Small gift included
2
Stop 2: Olive Grove Farm – Tour & Olive Oil Tasting
Continue to a picturesque olive grove, where the Cretan spirit comes alive beneath ancient trees. Learn about cultivation, harvesting, and the cold-press method that produces Crete’s famous extra virgin olive oil.
✅ Guided tour of the olive groves and production area
✅ Tasting of premium olive oils paired with local bread and herbs
✅ Admission and guided tour included
3
Stop 3: Meet a local BeeKeeper
Next, we head to an undisclosed location, where you will discover the fascinating world of Cretan beekeeping. Learn about the island’s honey-making traditions, taste pure honey varieties, and see how bees contribute to Crete’s rich ecosystem. This is an authentic, hands-on experience for nature lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
4
Stop 4: Raki Distillery – Tour & Tasting
Visit a traditional family distillery where raki — the fiery soul of Crete — is born. Watch the copper stills in action, hear the stories behind this age-old ritual, and taste several types of raki paired with small local bites.
✅ Guided tour of the distillery and stills
✅ Tasting of different raki varieties (including flavored)
✅ Meze plate with local delicacies
✅ Admission and tasting included
5
Stop 5: Traditional Lunch at Elia Village
End the day in the heart of Archanes, one of Crete’s most beautiful mountain villages. Enjoy a slow, generous lunch at a family taverna — dishes made from local ingredients, cooked with love and paired with local wine or raki.
✅ Full-course meal featuring traditional specialties
✅ Drinks included (local wine & raki)
✅ Free time to explore the village
✅ Lunch included
What's not included
Extra food or drinks not included in the set menu for lunch
Tips for the guide and driver (optional)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
Ticket Information – Soap, Olive Oil, Wine, Raki & Traditional Lunch Tour
Duration: Approx. 8 hours
Start Time: 08:30 (Small Group) • 08:45 (Private Tour)
Operating Days:
• Small Group Tour: Monday, Wednesday & Friday
• Private Tour: Monday to Saturday
Departure Point: Elounda & Agios Nikolaos
Itinerary Summary
• Stop 1 – Family Soap Workshop: Guided presentation, hands-on experience, and a small handmade soap to take home.
• Stop 2 – Olive Grove Farm: Walk through the groves, learn about production, and enjoy a tasting of premium extra virgin olive oils.
• Stop 3 – Raki Distillery: Distillery tour, raki tasting (several varieties), and traditional meze.
• Stop 4 – Traditional Lunch (Archanes Village): Full-course Cretan meal with local wine and raki.
• Return to Elounda/Agios Nikolaos at approximately 17:30.
About Agios Nikolaos
Agios Nikolaos is a charming coastal town on the northeastern coast of Crete, known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich history. It offers a blend of vibrant nightlife, traditional Greek culture, and stunning natural landscapes, making it a perfect destination for all types of travelers.
Top Attractions
Lake Voulismeni
A picturesque lake in the heart of Agios Nikolaos, surrounded by cafes and restaurants. It's a popular spot for a leisurely stroll or a coffee by the water.
Natural
1-2 hours
Free
Agios Nikolaos Archaeological Museum
This museum showcases artifacts from the Minoan civilization, including pottery, jewelry, and sculptures, providing a glimpse into the region's rich history.
Historical
1-2 hours
€3
Kritsa Village
A charming traditional village perched on a hillside, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the island's past with its narrow streets and stone houses.
Cultural
Half-day
Free to explore
Elounda Beach
A beautiful sandy beach with clear waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is well-organized with sunbeds and umbrellas for rent.
Beach
Half-day to full day
Free, sunbeds €8-€10
Spinalonga Island
A historic island with a Venetian fortress and a fascinating past as a leper colony. It's accessible by boat and offers guided tours.
Historical
Full-day
Boat tour €15-€20, entrance fee €8
Must-Try Local Dishes
Dakos
A traditional Cretan dish made with barley rusks, topped with tomatoes, mizithra cheese, and olive oil.
Appetizer
Vegetarian
Stifado
A slow-cooked beef stew with onions, tomatoes, and spices, served with potatoes or rice.
Main Course
Contains meat
Gamopilafo
A traditional wedding rice dish cooked with lamb or goat and spices.
Main Course
Contains meat
Raki
A strong local spirit made from grapes, often served as an aperitif or digestif.
Drink
Alcoholic
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Lasithi Plateau
Water sports in Elounda
Sunbathing at Amoudara Beach
Leisurely strolls around Lake Voulismeni
Exploring Kritsa Village
Visiting the Agios Nikolaos Archaeological Museum
Swimming
Boat tours to Spinalonga Island
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with hot, sunny weather and lively beach activities. It's ideal for those who love summer vibes and water sports.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Greek
- Widely spoken: English, German
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+2 (EET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Agios Nikolaos is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas, especially during peak season.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Heraklion International Airport • 60 km
- Sitia Public Airport • 40 km
By bus
Agios Nikolaos Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport. They are affordable and reliable but can be crowded during peak times.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Taxibeat, Beat
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Town Center
Kitroplateia
Amoudara
Day trips
Elounda
10 km • Half-day to full day
A picturesque village with beautiful beaches and a historic Venetian castle. It's a great spot for relaxation and exploring.
Kritsa Village
5 km • Half-day
A traditional Cretan village with narrow streets, stone houses, and stunning views. It's a great place to experience local culture and history.
Lasithi Plateau
30 km • Full-day
A scenic plateau surrounded by mountains, offering hiking, biking, and stunning views. It's a great spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Festivals
Agios Nikolaos Festival • December 6th
Easter Celebrations • Variable (March/April)
Agios Nikolaos Wine Festival • August
Pro tips
- Visit the lake in the early morning for a peaceful experience
- Try the local pastries at the cafes around the lake
- Explore the town's narrow streets and alleys for hidden gems
- Visit the local market for fresh produce and handmade crafts
- Take a boat tour to Spinalonga Island for a historical experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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