Exploring the Epicenter of the Mediterranean Diet
Embark on a culinary odyssey to Crete, the epicenter of the Mediterranean diet. Explore its rich history, diverse landscapes, and self-sustaining traditions that have nurtured an abundance of flavors. Witness the evolution of gastronomy over millennia, savoring the simplicity and delicacy of Cretan cuisine, from fresh fruits and vegetables to homemade dairy products and fresh seafood. Indulge in the island’s famed olive oil, enriching every dish. Discover picturesque villages and vineyards while delighting in traditional pies and desserts. Immerse yourself in this gastronomic paradise, celebrating the essence of Crete’s culinary heritage and its captivating allure.
Unveiling Mediterranean Nutrition:
Begin your captivating journey in Chania, Crete, where ancient history and vibrant culture converge. Explore the charming streets and immerse yourself in the city’s ambiance. Indulge in a delightful welcome dinner at a renowned restaurant, experiencing the exquisite flavors of Cretan cuisine. Get ready to uncover the secrets of Mediterranean nutrition and its impact on health, as you delve into the cultural dimensions of this ancient gastronomic tradition.
Anoskeli Olive Grove and Manousakis Winery:
Embark on an enriching journey through an ancient olive grove and indulge in the art of olive oil making and tasting. Witness the traditional production process of extra virgin olive oil, savoring its exquisite flavors on warm bread seasoned with oregano, salt, and lemon juice. The olives, nurtured by the Greek sun and the Cretan nature, are carefully cold-pressed to preserve their nutritional essence, resulting in a 100% natural and delectable olive oil. Later, venture to a charming organic and boutique winery, to uncover the secrets of winemaking. Explore the fermentation room, admire state-of-the-art equipment, and delight in the aromatic ambiance of the barrel room. Treat yourself to a mouthwatering lunch featuring authentic Cretan dishes perfectly paired with the wines. The day’s captivating experiences will be complemented by the enlightening insights of a local expert on the significance of olive oil in the Greek diet. Enjoy a free afternoon and evening to relax and immerse yourself in the beauty of Chania at your leisure.
Vamos and Chania:
Embark on a captivating journey to the traditional village of Vamos, a hidden gem untouched by tourism, offering an authentic glimpse of Cretan life. Surrounded by picturesque mountains and lush greenery, Vamos welcomes you with its stone houses, quaint streets, and a charming square adorned with plane trees. Immerse yourself in the village’s rich culture and meet the local producers for two intriguing options, Cheese Making or visiting a Herbs & Essential Oil Factory. Indulge in a delectable traditional Cretan lunch that showcases the island’s authentic flavors. Afterward, you have the option to relax and enjoy the sunset by the pool or a nearby beach. Alternatively, join the Chania old town walking tour to uncover the historical heritage of the city. Wander through the enchanting old town and the Venetian harbor, meandering through narrow streets adorned with colorful flowers. Explore the vibrant neighborhoods, soaking in the charm and beauty of Chania’s captivating history.
Treasures and Culinary Artistry:
Discover the captivating port city of Rethymnon with its outstanding architecture and historic charm. Learn the art of making Phyllo dough from the oldest Filo pastry Master in Greece. Indulge in a delightful lunch at an authentic taverna before driving to Heraklion to check into the hotel. Experience sustainable gastronomy at Peskesi Restaurant, where the philosophy of Cretan tradition is showcased through traditional cooking techniques and local produce. Join an expert instructor, as he explores the colorful world of Mediterranean food, focusing on fruits and vegetables. Embrace the culinary delights and cultural treasures of Rethymnon and Heraklion on this enriching journey.
Knossos Palace and A Special Winery:
Embark on a historical journey to Knossos Palace, Europe’s oldest city and the ceremonial center of the Minoan Civilization. Delve into the rich history of human habitation dating back to 7000 BC and savor a delightful lunch. In the afternoon, visit Lyrarakis Winery, a family-owned estate renowned for producing high-quality wines from rare local varieties. Enjoy a tasting amid the idyllic vineyards, surrounded by the Lassithi mountains, and relish the uniqueness of Cretan wines. Conclude the day with dinner, returning to Heraklion filled with knowledge of “Dietary Habits in Minoan civilization” shared by our expert instructor.
Coastlines and a Hidden Beach:
Journey to Agios Nikolaos and the enchanting Elounda Bay, known for its breathtaking coastline and crystal-clear seas. Opt for a visit to the captivating Spinalonga Island, once a leper colony, with a fascinating history depicted in Viktoria Hislop’s book. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing day at the beautiful beach. Savor a delightful lunch in a seaside village before driving to Sitia and checking into the hotel. The evening brings an exquisite dinner, providing a perfect culmination to the coastal charm and island mysteries explored during the day.
Olive Oil and a Greek Grandma:
Embark on a morning exploration of Sitia, beginning with a visit to a local organic olive oil production company. Discover the secrets of traditional Cretan olive oil and its significance in Greek cuisine. Indulge in a heartwarming cooking experience with a Cretan Grandma, who imparts the wisdom of unprocessed natural food, healing herbs, and the simplicity of cooking with love. Enjoy a free afternoon to relax or explore the beauty of Sitia further. As the day winds down, savor a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, making the most of the culinary traditions and serenity discovered in Sitia.
Monastery and a Swim:
Discover the allure of Toplou Monastery, a historic and beautiful landmark in Crete, representing the surviving legacy of the region’s once numerous monasteries. Immerse yourself in the monastery’s rich history and cultural significance. Afterwards, visit the stunning Vai Beach, known for its picturesque palm forest – the largest in Europe. Enjoy a refreshing swim and a leisurely lunch at this enchanting destination. In the evening, our instructor will unveil the secrets of the Monastic diet and their culinary tradition. Return to Sitia, where you can relax and enjoy a pleasant dinner.
Bid farewell to the captivating island of Crete as you transfer to Heraklion Airport. Cherish the memories of your enchanting journey, where you explored the historical wonders, culinary delights, and the rich cultural traditions of this mythical land. Return home with a heart full of beautiful experiences and the taste of Crete forever imprinted in your senses.
Experiences that empower local communities
Build relationships with local experts
Engage in a cultural expedition like never before
Our trips are bespoke and intimate by design. The group size is limited to 10 guests. We offer custom itineraries for individuals, couples and groups.
Our trips are bespoke and intimate by design. The group size is limited to 10 guests. We offer custom itineraries for couples and groups.
Phosphatos is a gastronomic tour company, specializing in culinary and wine tours in undiscovered Greece. Our tours are known for immersing our guests in the local lifestyle. To ensure you will have a complete personal experience, our groups are small and curated. We also offer custom tours for private groups
