Discover Rethymno, Lake Kournas & the Secrets of Cretan Olive Oil

5.0 (11 reviews) 6 hours Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

11 reviews

5.0

Discover Rethymno, Lake Kournas & the Secrets of Cretan Olive Oil — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Discover Rethymno, Lake Kournas & the Secrets of Cretan Olive Oil, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Our journey begins in Rethymno, a charming coastal city full of character, where Venetian elegance meets Eastern influence. Stroll through its picturesque alleys, admire the grand Fortezza Castle, and discover hidden gems like ancient churches, mosques, arches, and the old lighthouse. The cobblestone streets of the old town are waiting to be explored!

Next, we’ll take you to the stunning Lake Kournas — the only freshwater lake in Crete. Surrounded by lush hills and offering breathtaking views of the White Mountains, this peaceful spot is perfect for a relaxing walk or a refreshing drink by the water.

We end our tour at a local olive oil factory in a traditional village, where you’ll experience the heart of Cretan olive oil production. From the olive harvest to cold-pressing and bottling, you'll see every step of the process. Of course, a guided olive oil tasting is included — a perfect way to discover the rich flavor and health benefits of authentic extra virgin Cretan olive oil.

Day Trips Half-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Ports of Call Tours City Tours Shore Excursions

At a glance

Duration: 6 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: German, English
Operated by: SeaByBus Explore Crete

What is included

Included

Included: Private transportation
Included: Local tour leader (English and German speaking)
Included: Public liability insurance
Included: On-board WiFi: WiFi on board
Included: USB charging ports in van
Included: Cold soft drinks, beer, bottled water
Included: In-vehicle air conditioning: Air-conditioned vehicle
Included: Guided olive oil tour & olive oil tasting

Not included

Not included: Guided tour in Rethymno city
Not included: Gratuities

Itinerary

Rethymnon Old Town

2 hours

Rethymno is situated at the northern coast of Crete about in the middle between the two large cities Chania (58 km West) and Heraklion (79 km East). It is the only town on the island, which is built on a cape. There are two sides of Rethymno offering two styles of visit: the endless big beach and the old town with its mix of architecture and history. The large Venetian castle “Fortezza”, which dominates the city, countless orthodox and catholic churches, mosques, the old lighthouse, majestic mansions of Venetian architecture, arches and cobbled paths, which create a magical atmosphere, have inspired thousands of visitors to pause and take a picture.
Lake Kournas

one hour

Kournas Lake is the only physical freshwater lake in Crete. It is relatively large, with a perimeter of 3.5 km. According to a legend, it has no bottom, which is not true and was based on its dark color. There are also theories about strange electromagnetic fields near the lake, making some people uneasy while others feel a very good energy. Its unique beauty preserves until today the legend about the nymph who lives into the lake of Kournas. Lake Kournas is an important wetland area with a variety of flora and fauna, and so it is included in the Natura 2000 protection program.
Stop 3

45 min Admission included

Melissakis family has been active in the olive oil sector since the 1890s. The facilities are situated in the area of Tsivaras, Apokoronas in the east art of Chania.

Meeting point and pickup

The operator picks every participant up from their accommodation or the points below.

Pickup points

Aloni Suites
Hotel Aegli
Lagon Life Spirit Boutique Hotel - Adults Only
Zorbas Beach Village Hotel
La Maison Ottomane
Samaria Hotel
Triton Apartments
Domes Zeen Chania, a Luxury Collection Resort, Crete
Hotel Christina
Hotel Lissos
Royal Sun Hotel
Hotel Belmondo

and 273 more pickup points

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Options

Private Group 13-15 people

Duration: 6 hours

Soft drinks & bottled water

19 seater minibus

Private tour 13-15 people

Pickup included
Private Group 1-6 people

Duration: 6 hours

Soft drinks & bottled water

8 seater minivan

Private tour 1-6 people

Pickup included
Private Group 7-12 people

Duration: 6 hours

Soft drinks & bottled water

19 seater minibus

Private tour 7-12 people

Pickup included