Discover the Essence of Crete at Vassilakis Estate
Experience the heart of Cretan culture with an immersive olive oil tour at Vassilakis Estate, where tradition meets taste.
A brief summary to Vassilakis Estate - Olive Tour Crete
- Neapolis Gerania, Neapoli, 724 00, GR
- +302841033653
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Crete, Vassilakis Estate stands as a proud testament to the island's rich agricultural heritage, particularly its famed olive oil production. This family-run estate invites tourists to embark on an enlightening journey through the olive oil-making process, from the orchard to the bottle. Visitors can immerse themselves in guided tours that showcase the meticulous care and traditional techniques involved in cultivating olives. The estate's knowledgeable staff share fascinating insights about the history of olive oil in Crete, its health benefits, and the unique characteristics of different olive varieties. At Vassilakis Estate, the experience extends beyond mere observation. Tourists are encouraged to engage in tastings of various olive oils, allowing them to appreciate the nuanced flavors that define high-quality Cretan olive oil. Coupled with the stunning backdrop of rolling hills and ancient olive trees, the estate provides a sensory feast that captures the essence of the region. Guests can also explore the estate's charming shop, where they can purchase premium olive oils and related products to take a piece of Crete home with them. The estate is open throughout the week, offering ample opportunity to visit. Whether you are a culinary enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking to enjoy a relaxing day in the countryside, Vassilakis Estate caters to all. This unique attraction embodies the spirit of Crete, making it an essential stop for anyone wanting to experience the island's rich agricultural traditions and exquisite flavors.
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Visit during the morning for a quieter and more intimate experience.
- Don't miss the olive oil tasting session; it's a highlight of the tour.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking through the estate's beautiful grounds.
- Check the estate's website for any special events or workshops during your visit.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From Heraklion city center, walk to the Central Bus Station (Ktel). The station is located at 1866 Square, a central area in Heraklion. Once at the station, look for buses heading towards Neapoli. The ride to Neapoli usually takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic. Upon arriving at the Neapoli bus station, exit the station and head southeast on Nikolaou Plastira street. Continue straight until you reach the main road (Eparhiaki Odos Neapolis - Agios Nikolaos). Turn left and proceed for about 500 meters. You will see signs directing you to Vassilakis Estate on your right.
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Taxi or Ride-Sharing Service
If you prefer a more direct route, you can take a taxi or use a ride-sharing service from anywhere in Heraklion. Simply inform the driver to take you to Vassilakis Estate located in Neapolis Gerania. The approximate distance from Heraklion city center is about 31 kilometers, and the journey will take roughly 30 to 40 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Make sure to confirm the address: Neapolis Gerania, Neapoli 724 00.
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Walking and Public Transport Combination
For a more scenic route, you can first take a bus from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos. From the Heraklion Central Bus Station, take a bus towards Agios Nikolaos. Once in Agios Nikolaos, you can continue by taking a local bus or taxi to Neapoli. After arriving in Neapoli, follow the directions provided in the public bus option to reach Vassilakis Estate. This option allows you to enjoy the beautiful coastal views along the way.