Activity Snapshot
Activity description
Prepare for an extraordinary half-day Jeep safari adventure that combines the thrill of off-road driving with the indulgence of wine and olive oil tasting, all set against the backdrop of Crete's enchanting landscapes.
Your journey begins with a friendly introduction to your knowledgeable guide, followed by a brief orientation about the day's activities. Buckle up as you embark on a captivating drive along provincial roads, heading towards the charming Spilia village. Here, you'll enjoy a unique and immersive olive oil tasting experience that provides insight into Crete's largest agricultural industry—olive oil production.
After savoring the rich flavors of olive oil, your adventure continues as you make your way towards the towering peak of Giouhtas. Traverse a dirt road that winds through a pristine pine forest on the east side of the mountain. Along the way, you'll encounter the small but historically significant church of Christ the Lord, dating back to 1443. From this vantage point, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Archanes valley, a vast vineyard, Psiloritis, Dikti, and Heraklion. Keep an eye out for local herbs and the majestic vultures that call the steep cliffs home.
Next, you'll head to a renowned winery, where the essence of Crete's winemaking tradition comes to life. At the Fabrika Wine Experience, you'll embark on a special wine tasting journey. This experience allows you to follow the winemaking process step by step, from production and maturation to bottling. Gain insights into traditional winemaking techniques and explore the tools used, including the impressive cement tanks that play a pivotal role during fermentation.
As your tour through the winery concludes, so does your wine tasting experience. Your Jeep safari will then take you back to your hotel in Heraklion, marking the end of this captivating excursion. Throughout this adventure, you'll journey to the crossroads of myth and reality, all while enjoying the sensory delights of wine and olive oil.
- Giouhtas – The Holy Mountain: Ascend to the highest peak, Giouhtas, and discover a small church with a rich history. Revel in breathtaking panoramic views.
- Sylamiano Gorge: Journey through the picturesque Sylamiano gorge as you make your way to the olive oil tasting and winery.
This safari offers a journey to the crossroads of myth and reality, where you'll enjoy wine and olive oil tasting while traversing the picturesque scenery of Crete's inland. It's an adventure that engages all your senses and immerses you in the cultural and natural wonders of the region. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the best of Crete's traditions and landscapes.
Course of events
1. Meet your friendly guide and receive a brief overview of the day's activities.
2. Set off on an off-road adventure, driving along provincial roads towards Spilia village.
3. Enjoy an immersive olive oil tasting experience in Spilia, gaining insights into Crete's olive oil production.
4. Continue your journey to Giouhtas, ascending via a scenic dirt road through a pine forest.
5. Visit the historic church of Christ the Lord and savor panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
6. Drive to a renowned winery, the Fabrika Wine Experience, for a unique wine tasting.
7. Trace the winemaking process and explore traditional winemaking tools.
8. Conclude the winery tour and wine tasting before heading back to your Heraklion hotel.
- Moderate fitness level for exploration and walking.
- Participants must arrive at the designated pick-up point 10 minutes early.
- For participants who are not adults, parental authorization is required.
Special terms
- Experienced, English-speaking driver
- Free transportation from/to your hotel (within free pickup area)
- Olive oil tasting experience in Spilia village
- Wine tasting experience at the Fabrika Wine Experience
- Tickets to museums and archaeological sites
- Private expenses (coffees, drinks, etc.)
- Comfortable shoes
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Camera
- Jacket (depending on weather)
