Olive Oil Tasting & Cooking Lesson
- Period: Every Monday (available on other days upon request)
- Min Participants: 5
- Max Participants: 20
- Duration: 3+ hours
- Adults: 95€
- Children (5-12 years old): 55€
- Private tour (2 people): 180€/person
- Private tour (3 or 4 people): 120€/person
Private upon request. Please note the cancellation policy is 24-hours prior to arrival. Terms and conditions apply.
Discover the magic of Metohi Istoria & Soul Kitchen, a truly special Cretan experience set within a 15th-century Venetian estate.
Your adventure begins with a Cretan Castle Tour, where you’ll step back in time and walk through centuries of history. But it’s more than just sightseeing. You’ll immerse yourself in an Olive Experience, uncovering the secrets of olive oil production—from the tree to the bottle.
End the tour with a taste of tradition during our hands-on Cooking Lesson, held on a stunning panoramic terrace. Learn to prepare authentic Cretan pastries and unlock the delicious wisdom passed down through generations.
This isn’t just a visit—it’s a unique blend of history, nature, and flavor that connects you to Crete’s rich heritage in an unforgettable way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Overall Castle Experience?
The Overall Castle Experience at Metohi Istoria & Soul Kitchen is a unique, three-part journey into Cretan history, nature, and flavor, set within a 15th-century Venetian estate. It begins with a short historic & farm tour, allowing you to explore centuries of the estate’s past. Next, you’ll delve into an olive oil tasting, uncovering the secrets of olive oil production from tree to bottle. The experience culminates in a hands-on cooking lesson on a panoramic terrace, where you’ll learn to prepare authentic Cretan pastries and traditional dishes. This immersive experience offers a unique blend of history, nature, and flavor, connecting you to Crete’s rich heritage.
Where does the experience take place?
It takes place at Metohi Istoria, a privately-owned Venetian castle in Chania, Crete.
What's included in the Exclusive Historic Tour?
You’ll have a rare opportunity to explore a privately-owned 15th-century Venetian castle and learn about its evolution to the present day. You’ll also wander through the stunning Mediterranean nature, discovering avocado, olive, citrus, and other trees, and learning about Crete’s rich biodiversity and farming traditions.
What does the Olive Experience include?
This isn’t just a tasting. You’ll get hands-on experience, learning about the journey of olive oil from tree to bottle. The experience includes a tour of the old olive barn, where you’ll explore traditional processing methods, followed by a guided tasting of local varieties. You’ll discover the flavors, aromas, and health benefits of high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
What will I learn during the Cooking Lesson?
You’ll learn how to make kalitsounia—a beloved Cretan pastry filled with cheese, spinach, fresh greens, and aromatic herbs.
As you cook on our panoramic terrace, you’ll discover the secrets behind Crete’s famous cuisine and enjoy the joy of creating a meal together.
Vegetarian options and dietary needs can be accommodated upon request.
As you cook on our panoramic terrace, you’ll discover the secrets behind Crete’s famous cuisine and enjoy the joy of creating a meal together.
Vegetarian options and dietary needs can be accommodated upon request.
What makes this experience unique?
Set in a 15th-century Venetian estate, this experience invites you to step into Crete’s living history. Just 10 minutes from Chania, you’ll be surrounded by olive groves, citrus trees and peaceful gardens as you explore the traditions of Cretan cuisine.
You’ll meet the owners and local farmers who personally guide you through centuries-old stories, the secrets of olive oil, and hands-on cooking passed down through generations. This is a rare chance to connect with Crete’s culture in a place where history, nature and authentic flavors come together.
You’ll meet the owners and local farmers who personally guide you through centuries-old stories, the secrets of olive oil, and hands-on cooking passed down through generations. This is a rare chance to connect with Crete’s culture in a place where history, nature and authentic flavors come together.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, this experience can be adjusted to accommodate vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free preferences upon request. Please inform us of your dietary needs when booking.
Who are the hosts of this experience?
This experience is led by Eleanna, owner of Metohi Istoria, who brings together a background in marketing with a deep love for agriculture and a mission to preserve Crete’s traditions. She’s joined by Eleni, a certified chef, and Anna, a lawyer by profession with a passion for cooking.
What is the philosophy behind this experience?
The hosts are driven by a passion for hospitality, culture, and gastronomy. They believe food is more than just a meal and aim to help travelers discover Cretan cuisine while feeling the warmth of its history and the authenticity of its traditions. They hope you enjoy the journey as much as they enjoy sharing it with you.
