Olive-Picking-Weeks 2024
As summer draws to a close, the people of Kythira become increasingly eager, anticipating the upcoming olive-picking season. Conversations revolve solely around olives, discussing topics such as weather conditions, the need for rain, expectations for a bountiful harvest of high-quality olives, and the anticipated ripening time. When the awaited moment arrives, daily routines come to a halt as entire families embark on weeks-long excursions to harvest olives from their trees. As you traverse the island, green olive nets dot the landscape, and the echoes of voices and laughter emanate from the valleys.
The Olive-Picking-Weeks 2024 offer
A stay of 7 nights in a luxury Studio or Suite in Xenonas Fos ke Choros
3 to 4 Picking days
A visit to the olive press
Daily breakfast
Lunch in the olive grove (on picking days)
Diner at the guesthouse (on picking days)
Airport shuttle
Transport to and from the olive grove
To immerse yourself in this wonderful Greek tradition, consider joining us for an Olive-Picking-Week on the enchanting island of Kythira. In 2024, we are proud to host the 15th edition of our Olive-Picking-Weeks, commencing at the beginning of November.
The day of olive picking begins with a hearty breakfast in the morning. Subsequently, you will be transported to a picturesque olive grove adorned with trees that have often stood for over a century. Neatly spread nets await beneath the trees, signaling the commencement of the traditional picking process using a tool known as an olive comb. Embracing the tranquility of the environment, we refrain from using noisy machines, allowing you to fully savor the peaceful surroundings.
Our captivating olive groves are scattered across the island, nestled amidst nature. Throughout the day, coffee breaks and a delicious lunch in the midst of the grove are provided for your enjoyment.
At the conclusion of the week, we will transport the harvested olives to the olive oil factory for pressing. Each participant will receive a 1,5 liter bottle of their own freshly pressed oil to take home as a cherished memento.
Olive picking is a straightforward activity suitable for individuals of all ages and physical abilities. If you have any uncertainties, feel free to reach out to us for clarification.
During the picking days, dinners are served at the guesthouse. On days with no scheduled activities, you have the option to unwind, explore the island, visit the beach, or embark on a hiking adventure. Exclusive to our guests, we offer hiking trails, with the guesthouse serving as both the starting and ending point.
Periods
Week 1: from 2 until 9 November
Week 2: from 11 until 18 November
How to get to Kythira
The most convenient way to reach Kythira is to fly to Athens and then catch a domestic flight to the island.
If you wish to avoid the stress of transfers and long waits at the airport, and instead, prefer a relaxed and enjoyable journey, we recommend considering an overnight stay in Athens both on your way to Kythira and on your return. This approach helps you steer clear of the hassles associated with flight delays and sudden changes in schedules. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Athens.
For those desiring a stay in the city center, Sweet Home Hotel is an excellent choice. If time is limited or you prefer lodging outside the center, we suggest Avra Hotel in Rafina, which conveniently offers free pick-up and return services. For more information about a stay in Athens, you can visit the thisisathens website.
Feel free to reach out to us for assistance in planning your trip. We are more than happy to provide you with a tailor-made travel proposal.
Accommodation
The following accommodations are available to participants:
– a Loft in Xenonas Fos ke Choros
– a shared Suite in Xenonas Fos ke Choros. The suites have a separate bedroom as well as a full sleeping place on a traditional platform in the living room.
– a traditional house in the historic village of Aroniadika, situated within easy walking distance from the guesthouse (in case the guesthouse is already fully booked)
Rental cars
One or more rental cars are used for transport to the orchard. On days off, participants can use these cars in consultation, upon payment of the daily rental price of € 25.
Attendees
For a maximum olive picking experience, we have opted for a small group of 4 to 8 participants.
