Private 7 Villages Of Apokoronas Excursion, Heraklion

Discover the history, culture, and cuisine of Crete on this guided tour of the seven villages that comprise the region of Apokoronas. Begin with a visit to the Apokoronas Folk Museum in the village of Gavalochori before continuing on to a raki distillery to sample this local spirit and see how it's made. Marvel at the cliffside Church of St. Anthony in the village of Emprosneros and try local products at a cheese factory. End the excursion with lunch at a kafeneio (café) in the village of Fres, where you can learn more about life in Apokoronas.

The island of Crete was once home to the Minoan civilization, which transformed it into one of the most significant cultural and historical sites in both ancient and modern Greece. Experience the Cretan history, culture, and cuisine firsthand on this half-day guided tour of Apokoronas, a region that is made of seven villages and located just east of Chania. 

Begin in the village of Gavalochori with a visit to the Folklore Museum of Apokoronas. The Folklore Museum showcases the traditions and way of life that were once practiced in this area, some of which have continued to this day. The next stop is a tour of a local raki distillery. Initially brought to Greece during the reign of the Ottoman Empire, raki is a spirit that's also known by its Greek name of tsipouro. See how it's made, and of course, try some too, during this distillery visit.

Take in fresh air and views of the river in the village of Vrises before continuing on to Emprosneros. This village is home to sites that span from ancient times to modern ones, like the cliffside Church of St. Anthony and the Mikis Theodorakis Theater, named for the world-famous composer. Emprosneros is surrounded by a forest of oak trees, so enjoy its smells and peaceful atmosphere as you explore this charming location.

Crete is known for its gastronomy as for its history since it's home to fantastic ingredients and produce, as well as dishes that can only be found on the island. After visiting Emprosneros, take a tour of a cheese factory, where you can savor these tastes firsthand. Sample local cheeses like mizithra and anthotiros, as well as locally produced olive oil, biscuits, and other dairy products. End today's tour with lunch in a traditional kafeneio in the village of Fres, where you can try mezes or small dishes and speak to locals about life in Apokoronas.