Kournas Georgioupoli and Olive oil Factory

Experience the authentic flavors, traditions, and natural beauty of Crete on this relaxing full-day excursion from Rethymno. Visit a traditional olive oil mill, discover charming seaside villages, and spend time at Crete's only natural freshwater lake, combining local gastronomy, breathtaking scenery, and leisurely exploration in one unforgettable day.

Begin your journey with a convenient hotel pickup from Rethymno and selected nearby areas before traveling through the picturesque Cretan countryside to your first stop, the family-owned Kanakis Olive Oil Factory.

Enjoy a guided tour of the olive mill, where you'll learn about the centuries-old tradition of olive oil production and discover why Cretan extra virgin olive oil is considered among the finest in the world. Learn about the cultivation and harvesting process, from olive grove to bottle, while gaining insight into one of the island's most important traditions.

Following the tour, savor a delicious tasting buffet featuring authentic local products. Sample premium extra virgin olive oil, a variety of traditional olives, local honey, and Cretan raki, allowing you to experience the genuine flavors that make the island's Mediterranean cuisine so renowned. You'll also have the opportunity to purchase locally produced specialties directly from the factory.

Continue to the picturesque coastal village of Georgioupoli, famous for its long sandy beach, crystal-clear waters, and charming harbor. Enjoy approximately two hours of free time to relax however you wish. Swim in the refreshing sea, stroll through the village's quaint streets, enjoy a coffee or traditional Cretan lunch at a waterfront café, or walk along the scenic promenade to the picturesque chapel of Saint Nicholas, perched at the end of a stone pier.

Your final destination is the enchanting Lake Kournas, the only natural freshwater lake in Crete and one of the island's most beautiful natural landmarks. Surrounded by rolling hills and protected natural landscapes, the lake is the perfect place to unwind. Spend approximately three hours enjoying the peaceful surroundings, swimming in the crystal-clear water, renting a pedal boat to explore the lake, spotting turtles and local wildlife, or relaxing at one of the traditional lakeside tavernas serving authentic Cretan specialties with stunning views.

This leisurely excursion is ideal for couples, families, food lovers, and nature enthusiasts looking to experience Crete beyond its beaches. Combining authentic local flavors, traditional hospitality, charming villages, and spectacular scenery, it offers the perfect opportunity to discover another side of the island at a relaxed pace.