Excursion Olive oil traditions tour at Aghios Nikolaos

Explore the history of traditional olive oil production in Greece during this picturesque sightseeing excursion to an award-winning olive oil estate.

Agios Nikolaos, Villages of Elounda, Plaka and Kasteli, Panoramic photo stop at Spinalonga and Moni Aretiou

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to the Vassilakis Estate. En route, pass through the villages of Elounda, Plaka and Kasteli, stop for photos of Spinalonga and Moni Aretiou, and marvel at the stunning natural panorama.

Neapoli Village, Vassilakis Estate, Olive Oil Groves, Guided Tour, Olive Mill

Upon arriving in Neapoli Village, proceed for a visit to the Vassilakis Estate. The Vassilakis family olive mill is situated close to the ancient settlement of Drirοs. The olive groves span approximately 6.2 kilometres (about ten kilometres), and have been cultivated by the Vassilakis family since 1865. Today, the estate is a full, vertically-integrated olive business, from grove-to-bottle. During your visit, a Vassilakis family member escorts you on a guided walking tour of this award-winning olive mill, which is renowned for its environmentally-friendly policy and sustainable agricultural practices, and 3,800 registered olive farmers and collaborators.

Outdoor Museum, Old Olive Press, Olive Oil Tasting with Local Specialities

Along the way, see-and-learn learn about the family and their olive oil-making traditions, how olive oil used to be made utilising the old, hand-operated olive press at the outdoor museum, how olive oil is made today at their ultra-modern olive mill, hygienic conditions, international food standards, and more. Following your tour, learn how to distinguish a good olive oil during an olive oil tasting session, and sample selected local specialities. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Agios Nikolaos, Local Villages, Neapoli Village, Vassilakis Estate, Olive Oil Groves, Mill, Press and Outdoor Museum, Olive Oil Tasting

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, at times over uneven and natural surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and five steps at the Vassilakis Estate. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and local currency for purchases from the ship. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. This tour does not operate on January 1 and 6, March 25, Orthodox Easter Sunday, May 1, October 28, and December 25 and 26. The tour sequence may vary.