- Rethymnon - Starting off, we will visit a beautiful “kafeneio” located in a unique spot inside the old town of Rethymno. There, we will enjoy an authentic Cretan breakfast, which consists of a traditional Greek coffee or juice and a handmade cheese pie (as we called it “sfakianopita”) covered with organic thyme honey. We will start by discussing the main points of our visit; an introduction to the traditions, customs, and the connection to Cretan Gastronomy will follow, as we all enjoy our Cretan breakfast in the calm atmosphere of this quiet cafe.
- Bricks Beers & Tales - Time to taste some local products. Olive oil…Tsikoudia… and honey offcourse
- Handmade Traditional Philo Workshop - Travelers will be able to see in the old town of Rethymno, a Venetian mansion of 17th century where is Giorgos Chatziparaschos traditional philo Atelier, the oldest of its kind for making ‘’kantaifi’’ and ‘’baklava’’ philo for 65 years now. While the ingredients are simple - flour, water and some salt - the proportions according to Hatziparaschos took years of testing. Traditional philo is an essential ingredient for traditional syrupy sweets dipped in honey, such as kadaifi and baklava. If you are lucky, you will watch the master on the job. A fluid mixture falls into a special machine at the back room that butter aromas are spreading in space and a hot copper pan doesn’t stop turning. Above the flames, hundreds of thin and baked strings of kadaifi are created. Sprinkled with the right balance of cinnamon and chopped walnuts, kadaifi is one of the most favorite sweets.
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Rethimno - ALI VAFIS GARDEN
Our next stop will be a “tavern” based on a building from the Venetian era that was occupied by the Ottomans. At this stop we will taste the best Cretan “mezedes”, a small traditional dish of the Cretan and Ottoman cuisine, on the menu: Salad with tomato, cucumber, artichoke and bread crouton, White, red and rosé wine, Black beans with smoked trout, goat cheese Graviera, organic sausage sheet accompanied by raki. It is a small and friendly bar with a unique atmosphere where you can relax and drink delicious cocktails in the evening. Until then, you will be fully informed about the history of our city. If you wish to visit the fortress of Fortezza after the end of the tour our guide will be happy to help you and accompany you to the entrance of the fortress.
- Lunch
- Unlimited raki and laughter
- All taxes, fees, and handling charges included
- Intimate small group experience
- Tea and coffee provided
- Expert local guide fluent in English and French
- Extra charge if the pickup is not in Rethymno district
- Fortezza entrance ticket
IMPORTANT: Select 10:30 for English Guide, and 10:31 for French
Kick off your day with a classic Greek coffee accompanied by a Cretan breakfast in the serene and picturesque city square.
Stroll through the quaint alleys of the historic centre and explore significant sites through the perspective of a local guide.
Experience the craftsmanship of a baklava and kataifi fyllo maker and sample these famous desserts in their finest, authentic form.
Become knowledgeable about local products, the intricacies of their manufacturing process and tips on ensuring their quality, through comprehensive tastings of Honey, Raki and Olive oil.
Take a break in the secluded Ali vafi’s garden, plentiful with lemon and orange trees, and feast on a meal which embodies a fusion of traditional Cretan cuisine and modern culinary techniques.
Discuss insights, wisdom and opinions in true Greek fashion: over a glass of local wine.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.