Vavourakis Farm in Rethymno, Crete, started as an amateur experiment in 1995 by Michalis Vavourakis, a mechanical engineer whose love for nature quickly turned him to organic pig farming. The company, founded in 2002, was the first in Greece to produce and standardize exclusively organic pork meat and sausages, certified by DIO.
The estate is located in a mountainous area of Rethymnon, away from settlements, in an environmentally pristine area. Animals are free-range and fed exclusively with certified organic Greek cereals, fruits, vegetables, and roots. No chemical additives or preservatives are used in the production process.
Meat is packaged fresh or prepared as cold cuts such as ham, parizaki, traditional sausages, and the well-known Cretan apaki. The estate offers a stunning view of the Libyan Sea, adding to the immersive experience.
Following the tour, visitors can sample the renowned Cretan apaki served alongside raki. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes; rubber boots may come in handy. Bring cash as credit/debit cards are not accepted.
Farm Tour and Tasting
- Animal Feeding: Feed the farm’s animals directly — goats, chickens, rabbits, and other residents of this organic Cretan farm in Rethymno
- Farm Life Education: Learn about the daily rhythms of organic animal care and what it means to raise animals with respect for nature in Crete
- Farm Connection: Enjoy an hour of peaceful, authentic contact with animals in one of Rethymno’s most genuine agrotourism settings
