Join us on an unforgettable day trip to the western part of Crete, where you’ll explore the island’s rich history, culture, and culinary delights. Tastes of Crete: Olive Oil, Wine & Traditional Cuisine is the ultimate culinary journey through the heart of Crete, where every bite tells a story, every sip celebrates centuries of tradition, and every moment immerses you in breathtaking landscapes and authentic island life. Don’t just visit Crete—experience it with all your senses!

Visit the Ancient Olive Tree of Ano Vouves
The first stop is the picturesque village of Ano Vouves, home to one of the oldest olive trees in the world. Estimated to be over 4000 years old, this tree still produces olives, offering a rare glimpse into the island’s deep-rooted olive cultivation history. This fascinating tree is a living testament to Crete’s agricultural legacy.

The exact age of the tree cannot be determined.^[1] The use of radioisotopes is not possible, as its heartwood has been lost down the centuries,^[2] while tree ring analysis demonstrated the tree to be at least 2,000 years old.^[3] On the other end of the scale, scientists from the University of Crete have estimated it to be 4,000 years old.^[4]

A possible indicator of its age are the two cemeteries from the Geometric Period discovered near the tree.^[2] Current research in Crete and abroad indicates that earlier estimates of the age of olive trees are to be debated as far as their accuracy. There is not yet an agreed upon scientific method to ascertain the age of olive trees. In the case of the Vouves Olive, it could be much younger than earlier estimates or even older than the ancient tree in Finix (Sfakia).

The tree remains productive to this day, having been grafted with the cultivar ‘Tsounati’.^[2] The trunk has a perimeter of 12.5 m (41 ft) and a diameter of 4.6 m (15 ft).

In 1997, the tree was declared a protected natural monument, and in October 2009, the Olive Tree Museum of Vouves was inaugurated in a nearby 19th-century house, displaying the traditional tools and process of olive cultivatio. Branches from the tree were used to weave victors’ wreaths for the winners of the 2004 Athens Olympics and the 2008 Beijing Olympics

Olive Oil and Honey Production Tour
Next, delve into Crete’s traditional agricultural practices with a visit to an olive oil and honey production factory. Learn about the ancient methods of producing these treasured products, and gain insight into the island’s long-standing relationship with olive oil and beekeeping.

Wine Tasting at Pnevmatikakis Winery
Continue your journey to the renowned Pnevmatikakis Winery for a wine tasting experience. Explore the history of Cretan winemaking in modern facilities that combine passion, tradition, and technology. Savor the unique flavors of local wines, and learn about the process that makes Cretan wines a truly special experience.

Taste Authentic Cretan Cuisine
After a day of exploration, indulge in a delicious meal at a traditional Cretan restaurant. Taste authentic dishes made from fresh, local ingredients, and discover the true flavors of Crete.

Return to Your Hotel
The excursion concludes with a return to your hotel around 16:00-17:00, filled with unforgettable memories of the island’s culture, nature, and cuisine.

This day trip offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and gastronomy, making it a must-do experience for those wanting to discover the essence of Crete.