Crete: Richtis Waterfall Hike, Azoria & Olive Tasting Safari

Eastern Crete’s wild gorge trails, olive trees older than myths, and cool waterfall swims

You’ll ride through mountain villages in Crete’s north coast by Land Rover with just five others, swim beneath Richtis Waterfall after hiking through wild herbs, taste fresh-pressed olive oil at a family factory, and stand beside an olive tree older than most legends. This day trip from Agios Nikolaos or Elounda brings you close to real Cretan life—sometimes muddy shoes included.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel or meeting point near Agios Nikolaos or Elounda, all entrance fees, bottled water throughout the journey, a traditional Cretan lunch (with vegetarian option if you ask ahead), tastings of fresh extra virgin olive oil at a family-run factory—with time for swimming at Richtis Waterfall before heading back in air-conditioned comfort.

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Richtis Waterfall and Local Heritage

• Pass Agios Nikolaos head office
• Pass city and lake
• Hike and swim at Richtis Waterfall
• Visit 3250-year-old olive tree
• Explore lost city of Azoria
• See Voulisma beach on return
• Olive oil tasting at family factory

The Experience

The first thing I remember is the sound—crunchy gravel under the Land Rover tires as we left Kavousi behind. Our guide, Manolis, had this habit of humming along to old Cretan songs on the radio. We passed groves where the air smelled sharp and green, like crushed leaves. The road twisted up toward the Katharo Plateau and for a minute I just watched sunlight flicker through olive branches. Someone in our group asked about the oldest tree here—Manolis grinned and said it’s older than Homer. He wasn’t joking; we stopped next to this gnarled giant that’s apparently over 3,000 years old. The bark felt almost petrified when I touched it.

I didn’t expect the hike to Richtis Waterfall to be so… lush? There were wild herbs everywhere—minty smells mixed with damp stone. At one point my shoes slipped a bit on moss and Manolis just winked, “Crete keeps you awake.” The water at the base of the falls was freezing but so clear you could see every pebble. I jumped in anyway (regret for maybe three seconds), then floated there listening to everyone laugh echoing off the rocks. Lunch after was simple—bread, tomatoes, local cheese—and somehow tasted better because my hair was still wet from swimming.

Azoria felt like a secret—just low stones and wind, archaeologists’ tools scattered around. It’s not roped off or crowded; you can walk right up to history here. On the way back we rolled down windows near Voulisma Beach and got hit with salty air. Last stop: a family-run olive oil factory where Maria poured us little glasses to taste. She showed us how they press olives (the old way) and handed me some bread dipped in oil so green it looked almost gold in the afternoon light. Li laughed when I tried to say “efcharistó” properly—I probably butchered it but she smiled anyway.

Top questions

How long is the hike to Richtis Waterfall?

The hike is moderate and takes about 45 minutes each way through lush gorge terrain.

Is swimming at Richtis Waterfall allowed?

Yes, you can swim in the natural pool at Richtis Waterfall—bring your swimsuit and towel.

What kind of vehicle is used for this tour?

The tour uses an air-conditioned Land Rover Discovery with forward-facing seats for up to 6 guests.

Are meals or drinks included on this day trip?

Yes, lunch with local products and bottled water are included; alcoholic beverages are also provided.

Is hotel pickup available?

Pickup is included from Agios Nikolaos or Elounda hotels or nearby meeting points.

Can vegetarians join this tour?

Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested at booking.

Is this suitable for children?

Children are welcome if accompanied by an adult; infant seats are available if needed.

Will we visit any beaches during this tour?

You’ll see Voulisma Beach along the north coast during your return drive.