Authentic Soapmaking Experience & Tour in Crete | by Helleo
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Just 5 km from the Palace of Knossos, Helleo is a small, family-run soap lab founded by Manos and Stelios — two friends who’ve been crafting premium sustainable soaps since 2013.
Come for a friendly chat, good music, and a glimpse into authentic Cretan life. Learn how we transform our family’s fresh extra-virgin olive oil with herbs, fruits, spices, and clays into some of the purest, most ethical and creative soaps out there.
Whether you join a shared demo or a private workshop where you can even craft and receive your own soaps, you’ll enjoy an authentic local experience and get a real taste of the diversity of Crete!
Available options
Shared Soapmaking Tour & Demo
Join a group: Experience the charm of traditional soapmaking in a friendly shared demo (max. 20 people)<br/>Duration: 1 hour<br/>Tea, Coffee & Local Treats: Enjoy a refreshing herbal tea, coffee and local delicacies during your visit.<br/>Tour Highlights: Welcome with drinks, explore our story and space, watch a soapmaking demo, and enjoy a friendly chat.
<br/>Souvenir Soap Gift: Take home a handmade Helleo soap made with local olive oil and natural herbs.
Private Soapmaking Tour & Demo
Private Experience: Enjoy the same charming demo, just for your group.<br/>Duration: 1 hour<br/>Tea, Coffee & Local Treats: Relax with herbal tea, coffee and local delicacies in a private setting.<br/>Tour Highlights: Welcome with drinks, explore our story & lab, watch a live demo, Q&A.<br/>Souvenir Soap Gift: Take home a handmade Helleo soap made with local olive oil & herbs.
Private Soap Workshop + Soaps
Make your own batch: Choose your favorite ingredients and make a unique premium natural soap batch. Take home 8 premium soaps 120g for your group.<br/>Private Experience: Discover the art of soapmaking in an exclusive hands-on workshop just for your group.<br/>Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes<br/>Tea, Coffee & Local Treats: Relax with herbal tea, coffee and local delicacies in a private setting.<br/>Workshop Highlights: Start with a warm welcome, explore our story and lab, mix and scent your own soaps, and enjoy a friendly chat.<br/>Shipping: Soaps need 4 weeks to mature. Shipping can be arranged worldwide (€5–30 depending where you live, paid seperately at the lab)
What's included
English, Greek Guide
Bottled water
All Fees and Taxes
Helleo Gift
Some light local refreshments including local teas and coffee to be offered throughout the workshop
What's not included
Alcoholic Beverages
Soda/Pop
Private transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
EL
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
7 reviews
5★
7
4★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For any allergens on ingredients or scents please let us know
Meeting point
Our workshop is located at the HELLEO head office and Lab, in Vasilies village, just outside Heraklion (7km), close to the historic Knossos Palace (5km) and the picturesque village of Archanes (5km). You will find our entrance with a wooden fence on the main road on your right hand.
About Crete
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and a treasure trove of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Known as the birthplace of the Minoan civilization, it offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and traditional villages.
Top Attractions
Palace of Knossos
The Palace of Knossos is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and is associated with the mythological Minotaur and the Labyrinth.
Historical
2-3 hours
€15 (included in multi-site ticket)
Samaria Gorge
One of Europe's longest gorges, Samaria is a popular hiking destination known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Nature
5-7 hours
€5 entry fee
Elafonisi Beach
Elafonisi Beach is famous for its pink sands and crystal-clear waters, making it one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Dakos
A traditional Cretan salad made with barley rusks, tomato, myzithra cheese, and olive oil.
Appetizer
Vegetarian
Moussaka
A layered dish with eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.
Main Course
Contains meat
Rakomelo
A warm drink made with rakia (a local brandy) and honey.
Drink
Alcoholic
Popular Activities
Hiking in Samaria Gorge
Scuba diving in Elafonisi Beach
Sunbathing at Balos Lagoon
Wine tasting at local wineries
Exploring the Palace of Knossos
Visiting the Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Snorkeling in Balos Lagoon
Boat tours around Crete
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm, sunny weather and clear skies. It's ideal for beach activities and exploring the island's historical sites.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Greek
- Widely spoken: English, German, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
EET (UTC+2) / EEST (UTC+3 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Crete is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services
Getting there
By air
- Heraklion International Airport • 3 km from Heraklion city center
- Chania International Airport • 13 km from Chania city center
By bus
Heraklion Bus Station, Chania Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable and cover most parts of the island.
Taxis
Available • Apps: TaxiBeat, Beat
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Heraklion Old Town
Chania Old Town
Day trips
Balos Lagoon
55 km from Chania • Full day
A stunning lagoon with turquoise waters and white sand, accessible by car or boat.
Rethymno Old Town
65 km from Heraklion • Half day to full day
A charming old town with Venetian and Ottoman architecture, offering a rich cultural experience.
Festivals
Cretan Festival • June to August
Easter Celebrations • March or April (varies by year)
Pro tips
- Visit smaller towns and villages for a more authentic experience
- Try local street food for a taste of traditional Cretan cuisine
- Explore the island's diverse landscapes, from beaches to mountains and gorges
- Learn a few basic Greek phrases to enhance your interaction with locals
- Consider renting a car for flexibility and to explore remote areas
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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