Cretan Senses: Melidoni Cave with Olive Oil, Honey & Wine Tasting
Discover the true essence of Crete on this private, guided tour that blends natural wonder, rich tradition, and unforgettable flavors.
Begin your journey with a visit to the mystical Melidoni Cave, an ancient site steeped in history and legend. You’ll have the chance to walk through stunning chambers that echo Crete’s deep past.
From there, the tour takes a delicious turn — we’ll visit a traditional olive press, a local honey farm, and a family-run winery. At each stop, you’ll not only enjoy exclusive tastings of high-quality olive oil, pure Cretan honey, and fine local wines — you’ll also meet the passionate people behind them. Learn how these timeless products are made and why they’ve been part of Cretan life for hundreds of generations.
This isn’t just a tasting — it’s an immersion into Cretan culture, hospitality, and daily life. With private transportation, a dedicated local guide, and flexible pacing, you’ll experience Crete like a local — not a tourist.
Options
9-Seater Minivan
Mercedes-Benz Vito or Similar
Pickup included
What's included in Cretan Senses: Melidoni Cave with Olive Oil, Honey & Wine Tasting
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Melidoni Cave
Step into the mysterious depths of Melidoni Cave, one of Crete’s most striking and historically significant natural sites. You'll walk through dramatic rock formations, vast chambers, and awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites, while learning about the cave's mythological, spiritual, and historical importance. Once a place of worship for the ancient Minoans and later a site of resistance during the Ottoman occupation, the cave carries a powerful story. Inside, you’ll visit the memorial chamber, honoring the hundreds of locals who tragically lost their lives during a siege in 1824 — a moment that left a lasting mark on Cretan history. As part of this exclusive tour, you’ll also enjoy reduced admission fees to the cave, making your visit not only memorable but great value. Whether you’re drawn by natural wonder, mythology, or history, Melidoni Cave offers a moving and visually stunning experience that will stay with you long after you leave.
Paraschakis Olive Oil - Crete
Step into a working traditional olive press and discover the art and science behind Crete’s world-famous olive oil. Your expert guide will take you through each step of the process — from harvesting the olives to pressing and extracting the rich, golden oil. Learn about the ancient techniques still used today and how olive oil shapes the island’s culture, cuisine, and health traditions. You’ll see the historic equipment alongside modern practices, gaining a unique perspective on this treasured Cretan staple. Best of all, you’ll have the opportunity to taste freshly pressed olive oil directly at the source, paired with local bread and other authentic accompaniments. This is a rare chance to savor the true “liquid gold” and understand why olive oil is the heart of Cretan life.
Apithano Honey Museum-Tasting & Tours
Step inside the Honey Museum, a charming space dedicated to Crete’s rich beekeeping heritage. Guided by a local expert, you’ll explore the fascinating world of bees and learn about traditional and modern honey production methods that have been practiced on the island for hundreds of generations. See authentic beekeeping tools, watch demonstrations, and uncover the unique qualities that make Cretan honey so prized worldwide. Your guide will share stories of how honey is woven into local culture, cuisine, and even medicine. Of course, the highlight is the honey tasting experience — sample a variety of pure, natural honeys, each with distinct flavors reflecting Crete’s diverse flora. This sweet journey will leave you with a new appreciation for one of the island’s most precious treasures.
Inclusions
- Private transportation
- Guide: In-person: English
- Bottled water
- Liability Insurance and Local Taxes
- USB sockets to charge your devices
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Personal pick-up and drop-off with a flexibly adjusted time
- Gratuities
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
Additional Information
Pick-up from Heraklion port, Souda port, Chania Port, Rethymno Port is included for free. The driver will be waiting outside of the hotel or the location you have chosen holding a sign with your name.
