Old Recipes, Open Doors – Hands-On Cooking with Locals in Elounda

This immersive culinary experience begins in the historic village of Kritsa, away from noise and daily schedules. Guests are welcomed into an ancestral olive tree garden where centuries-old trees provide shade and a sense of calm. A guided introduction shares insights into local life, Cretan olive oil, and the philosophy behind Cretan cooking, emphasizing patience and connection rather than precision. The setting is authentic and unhurried, offering a glimpse into traditional countryside living. Guests then join local women to prepare traditional dishes using ingredients from nearby farms and the garden. Every recipe carries a story, and participants engage fully in hands-on cooking, learning techniques and tips passed down through generations.

The experience concludes with a shared meal under the olive trees, accompanied by a glass of Cretan wine. Guests enjoy the fruits of their labor in a relaxed, communal atmosphere where conversation flows naturally and time slows. The class provides not only culinary skills but also cultural insight, leaving participants nourished, relaxed, and enriched by the traditions of Kritsa. By the end of the three-hour experience, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for Cretan food, the people who preserve it, and the place that inspires it.