Cretan Traditions

Kournas Lake, Argiroupoli Springs & Olive Oil Legacy

7-8 Hours

80 Km

Easy

Up to 4 guests
240€

Up to 8 guests
400€

Overview

This tour is a journey into the heart of Crete’s traditions, flavors, and natural beauty—perfect for those who love culture, food, and peaceful landscapes. It begins with a visit to a local olive farm, where you’ll uncover the island’s deep-rooted connection to olive oil. The scent of fresh-pressed olives fills the air as you learn about the centuries-old techniques that create Crete’s liquid gold. Tasting different varieties, you’ll discover the richness of this staple ingredient and its role in the island’s way of life.

Next, the calm waters of Kournas Lake invite you to slow down and soak in the scenery. Tucked between rolling hills, this freshwater lake is a rare gem on the island. Whether you choose to take a gentle stroll along the shore, rent a paddle boat, or simply relax with a coffee by the water, the peaceful atmosphere is undeniable. The journey ends in Argiroupoli, a village where nature and history blend seamlessly. Water cascades through lush green landscapes, feeding ancient springs that have sustained life here for centuries. Among the old stone buildings and Venetian remnants, you’ll find cozy tavernas serving some of the best traditional dishes on the island. A slow lunch in the cool shade, with the sound of running water nearby, is the perfect way to take in the essence of Crete. This experience is ideal for those who appreciate authenticity—food lovers, nature seekers, and anyone looking for a relaxed yet meaningful day exploring the island’s timeless traditions.

Tour Highlights	Olive Oil Legacy: Start the tour with an educational and sensory experience at a local olive farm. Learn the history of olive cultivation on the island and taste different varieties of olive oil. Kournas Lake: After the olive farm, take a peaceful detour to Kournas Lake for some time in nature, enjoying the crystal-clear freshwater surrounded by mountains. Argiroupoli Springs & Village: Conclude the day with a visit to the historical village of Argiroupoli, where you can enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch and explore the village's natural springs and ancient ruins.
Itinerary Overview	09:00 - 09:45: Pick-up from your location and drive to the olive oil farm for an educational tour. 09:45 - 10:45: Olive oil farm tour and tasting session, where guests learn about the traditional methods of olive oil production and taste various olive oils. 10:45 - 11:15: Drive to Kournas Lake. 11:15 - 13:15: Free time at Kournas Lake for a relaxing walk, boat ride, or enjoying the scenic beauty. 13:15 - 13:45: Drive to Argiroupoli Springs for lunch at a traditional taverna. Enjoy authentic Cretan food surrounded by nature. 13:45 - 15:45: Time to explore the Argiroupoli Springs and the charming village area. 15:45 - 16:30: Return drive to your location. Itinerary times are approximate and fully customizable. You may adjust the pick-up time, add or remove stops along the route (as long as they are on the way), and use the entire tour duration or shorten it according to your schedule.
What’s Included	Private air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver. USB sockets and charging cables in the vehicle. Free hotel pick-up and drop-off from Chania or Rethymno. Liability insurance and local taxes. A bottle of water per person. Entrance fees and parking for Kournas Lake.
What’s Not Included	Entrance fees for additional stops (entrance to the olive oil factory or additional activities). Lunch, drinks, or refreshments. Souvenirs or personal expenses. Gratuities.
Things to Bring	Comfortable shoes for walking. Swimwear (if planning to swim in Kournas Lake). Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses. Camera to capture scenic moments. Light jacket for cooler months (November to March).
Important Notes	Pick-up from locations outside of Chania and Rethymno area is available upon request. The timing for lunch can be adjusted to suit guests' preferences.