Richti Waterfall, Ancient Olive Tree, Azoria & the North Coast of Crete
A journey through gorges, ancient groves, and lost cities far from the beaten track
This full-day guided tour combines the raw natural drama of the Richti Waterfall hike in East Crete with a visit to one of the oldest olive trees on the planet and an active archaeological site that most visitors to the island never encounter. The route covers coastal panoramas, a jungle-like gorge, a refreshing natural pool, and a family-run olive oil producer in a single rewarding day.
The day opens with a scenic coastal drive around the bay of Mirabello before the trail descends into a lush gorge. A 40-minute walk alongside a small river, through dense subtropical vegetation, leads to the Richti Waterfall, where 18 meters of crystal-clear spring water cascade into a small natural pool cool enough for a proper swim.
After lunch at a local taverna perched at the water's edge, the tour continues inland to a 3,250-year-old olive tree that still produces fruit today. The sheer scale and age of this living monument puts the entire history of the Mediterranean into an unexpected perspective.
The afternoon visit to the archaeological site of Azoria offers something genuinely rare: an ancient hilltop settlement on the eastern tip of the island where excavations are still actively underway. Returning along the coast, the route passes the striking beach of Voulisma before ending at a family-owned olive oil factory where guests can taste and learn about traditional production methods.
Tour Highlights
Hike through a gorge to the Richti Waterfall and swim in its natural freshwater pool beneath an 18-meter rock formation.
Stand beside one of the oldest olive trees in the world, estimated at 3,250 years old and still bearing fruit.
Explore the archaeological site of Azoria, a lost hilltop city where active excavations continue to uncover its past.
Visit a family-owned olive oil factory for a guided tasting and an introduction to traditional Cretan olive production.
Travel along the dramatic north coast with views over the bay of Mirabello and past the scenic beach of Voulisma.
Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch at a local taverna situated directly at the water's edge in a quiet eastern village.
Itinerary
The tour begins with a scenic drive along the north coast, taking in the sweeping views of the Mirabello bay before heading toward the eastern gorge trailhead.
A 40-minute trail through jungle-like vegetation follows a small river to the foot of the Richti Waterfall. Guests are welcome to swim in the cold, clear pool at its base.
A locally sourced meal is served at a traditional taverna beside the water, providing a relaxed break before the afternoon's cultural visits.
The group visits one of the oldest known olive trees in the world, a living witness to millennia of Cretan history that continues to produce olives to this day.
The lost city of Azoria sits on a prominent hilltop well away from the main tourist circuit. Archaeologists are still uncovering its ancient Minoan and Iron Age layers, making every visit a genuinely live discovery.
The return route passes the photogenic beach of Voulisma before stopping at a family-run olive oil factory for a tasting of oils and related products.
What Is Included
Included
- Guided hike to Richti Waterfall
- Lunch at a local taverna
- Visit to the ancient olive tree
- Guided visit to Azoria archaeological site
- Olive oil factory tour and tasting
- Transport between all stops
Not Included
- Personal travel insurance
- Drinks beyond what is stated
- Gratuities
- Items of a personal nature
Important Information
Ready to Explore Hidden Crete?
Secure your spot on this full-day east Crete adventure combining waterfalls, ancient history, and authentic local flavours.
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