
Tour Overview
Explore traditional villages, admire epic sceneries and discover the Cretan culture whilst sampling the region's best “slow food,” wine and raki, on this private, half-day tour.
The tour begins with a drive through spectacular Therisso Gorge, a dazzling gorge with an outstanding forest landscape. Head to the picturesque namesake settlement, a pretty “lost” village with dramatic mountain scenery and a noteworthy history that has left a lasting mark on the island.
As you head downhill to the village, make a stop in a local kafenion, a traditional Greek-style café, where you can sample the famous “sfakiani pita”, lovingly drizzled with thyme-infused honey, and wash it back with a glass of raki, Crete’s most famous spirit or a Greek coffee.
Next, you’ll stroll around Therisso village which has played a vital role in the modern history of Crete. Sitting at the foothills of the scenic Lefka Ori (White Mountains), Therisso village was the starting point of the “1905” revolt, which in turn led to the Crete’s union with Greece in 1913. During your walk, you’ll visit several historical monuments, such as the National Resistance Museum and the headquarters of Eleftherios Venizelos, the leader of the revolt and one of the forthcoming Prime Ministers of Greece.
Continue the drive through the dramatic mountainous countryside, passing through traditional Cretan villages, still untouched and off the beaten path by tourism.
The next stop will be in a family-run farm where you’ll sample the region’s famous dairy products, such as freshly produced yogurt and cheese. Then head to a typical slow food restaurant where you’ll enjoy a traditional lunch cooked over an open fire in clay pots.
As your food is being prepared, you’ll experience the local rural life by visiting a small nearby farm where you’ll see how the locals use the land to make their living.
Before lunch, do not forget to ask the restaurant’s owner to guide you to his wine cellar where you’ll discover the delights of Cretan vines.
After your mouthwatering lunch, you’ll continue your exploration of local tastes by sampling what is considered the best region’s honey at a small family-owned business.
Moving onto your last stop: enjoy local wine at one of Crete’s best family wineries, set in a magnificent location. Learn about Crete’s indigenous varieties and exceptional wines while participating in a three-glass wine tasting of local wines paired with local cheese.
The day comes to an end having experienced authentic Cretan hospitality. It’s time now to drive you through the countryside for one last look at perfection and drop you off at your hotel.
What’s included
- Transportation during the tour
- Tastings of local honey, olive oil, cheese, yogurt, and local sweets
- Entrance to the National Resistance Museum
- One glass of raki
- A seasonal 3 course, slow-cooked Cretan lunch (consisting of meat and vegetables)
- Local English-speaking guide
- A sampling of three local wines accompanied by feta cheese, olives and rusks
- Additional food and drink
Meeting point
Pick up from Chania hotel is included in the tour price. We can offer pick up/drop off transfer to any other location at an extra charge.