EDUCATIONAL FARM NTOUNIAS
is an idea that was cultivated in the villages of Keramia. People that were involved in the primary sector decided to embrace the interest of the visitors about the way of living in the village. Educational farm Dounias was created in order to present the best way possible the reality of the Greek country-side the day-to-day challenges of life and alongside inspire the love for the environment and the mild growth occurs.
In Ntounias Educational Farm you will find the rare Cretan species called Cretan Gidomouskara, animals that are standing on the side of Cretan people for thousands of years and you can also see them in wall paintings in Knossos palace where you can see the then-famous bull leaping sport called tavrokathapsia.
DISCOVER AUTHENTIC AND UNFORGETTABLE
experience slow life in harmony with nature
taste traditional flavors in the heart of Crete
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stay surrounded by nature
TAVERNA NTOUNIAS
Our Tavern’s Story Our story began in 2004 when Stelios, an experienced chef working in a restaurant in Chania, decided to return to his hometown and take over the traditional tavern run by his parents. His dream was to create a place where guests could experience the true taste of Crete, inspired by the home-cooked recipes of his mother and grandmother.
Ntounias Farm is the heart of our tavern, where everything starts with nature. We grow seasonal vegetables organically, without artificial fertilizers, and our animals roam freely, ensuring the highest quality eggs, milk, and meat. Every ingredient on your plate comes straight from our land – fresh, local, and completely natural. At Ntounias, you can not only taste authentic Cretan flavors but also experience a way of life that respects tradition and nature.
Authentic Cretan Experience at the Foot of the White Mountains
– Welcome to Drakona!
ON THE WORKSHOPS IN NTOUNIAS EDUCATIONAL FARM
We will take you on a journey around our farm. You will see how everything works:
from the stables, where we take care of our cows and sheep and collect their milk
through the garden, where we carefully grow vegetables and then use them to prepare traditional dishes
to our kitchen, where we will prepare and eat traditional Greek dishes together
WORKSHOP IN NTOUNIAS INCLUDES:
VISITING THE FARM AND GARDEN
VISITING A BEEKEEPER
COLLECTING WILD PLANTS (HORTA) AND HERBS
COOKING LESSON IN THE MEDITERRANEAN TRADITION
LEARNING HOW TO MAKE TRADITIONAL CHEESES
COMMON MEAL
WHY CHOOSE NTOUNIAS?
Authentic Cretan Experience
Immerse yourself in the true spirit of Crete — far from mass tourism, surrounded by mountains, olive groves, and traditional village life.
Farm-to-Table Philosophy
Every dish is prepared using ingredients grown on our farm or sourced from trusted local farmers. No shortcuts, no processed products — only real, honest food.
Hands-On Workshops
Learn through experience: join our farm activities, explore traditional cooking techniques, and discover the wisdom of Cretan life passed down through generations.
Warm Greek Hospitality
Enjoy heartfelt, family-style hospitality where every guest becomes part of our extended home.
Slow Life in Nature
Feel the peace of living close to the land, where each day follows the natural rhythm of the sun, soil, and seasons.
Tradition Preserved
From cooking over wood-fired stoves to natural farming methods and animal care — everything we do respects the traditions of our ancestors.
NTOUNIAS, CRETE. (THE BEST RESTAURANT ON EARTH?)
Alexandros Ieronymidis and Giannis Hinos unplugged at Dounias, Drakona, Crete, 18th July 2020
Cretan Food - 100% PURE LOVE Farm-to-Table Mediterranean Cuisine in Crete!
Ntounias: Slow Food and Agritourism in Drakona, Chania
NTOUNIAS IN MEDIA
WHAT OUR GUESTS SAY
If paradise can exist on Earth, it's here. Boundless hospitality, a family atmosphere, and fabulous cuisine. If you haven't been to Drakona, don't say you've been to Crete. This is the best restaurant in the world!
- Grzegorz
Authentic, authentic Cretan cuisine. The food is seasonal, sourced from the property's own garden and stables. Everything is carefully prepared in clay pots over an open fire or in a wood-burning oven.
- Michaela
An amazing taverna! All dishes were cooked over an open fire, very fresh ingredients, and delicious dishes! Great atmosphere, wonderful experience! On my list of best places in Crete.
- Maxim
A true hidden gem in Chania, this unassuming restaurant uses incredibly fresh ingredients and has a very humble chef. The food and hospitality are incredible. A must-visit if you're in Crete, as you won't find an experience like this anywhere else.
- Tarek
OUR PARTNERS
