In the hills of Rethymno, a traditional shepherd's shelter, known in Cretan as a mitato, has become a setting for one of the island's most authentic cooking classes. These stone huts were used by shepherds in the mountains to make cheese and shelter from the weather, and they remain a symbol of the pastoral life that has shaped Cretan cooking for centuries. A class held in such a place feels very different from a studio: you cook outdoors or in a rustic kitchen, surrounded by herbs, olive trees and goats, with a view of the hills. The menu is built around what the land provides, with greens from the field, fresh cheese, olive oil, eggs and meat, and dishes such as pies, salads, slow-cooked stews and sweets with honey. The hosts, often a family, share stories about village life, and the lesson is as much about hospitality as technique. You finish by eating the meal together, with local wine and raki, which is the best part. For anyone who wants more than a quick lesson, it gives a taste of rural Crete away from the resorts.
How it works
The class takes place at a farm or shelter in the countryside near Rethymno, in a small group. You may be picked up in town or asked to drive to the site, so check the transport arrangements and the start time when you book. Most sessions include ingredients, instruction, the meal and drinks, and last around four hours. The class runs through much of the year, with outdoor cooking in the warm months.
What to expect
A friendly, hands-on day in the countryside. You will chop, knead and cook, with help from the host, and you may pick herbs or vegetables yourself. The setting is simple, so wear comfortable clothes and closed shoes, and bring a hat and sun cream in summer and a jumper in winter. Dietary requirements such as vegetarian can often be met if you tell the host in advance. Children are usually welcome, and the animals around the site tend to delight them.
Making the most of it
This is a good half-day for a rainy afternoon when the roads are quiet, and also a good choice for travellers who like to see where food comes from. Ask the hosts about their cheese and how it is made, and buy a piece to take home if it is on sale. Combine the class with a morning in Rethymno Old Town or a trip to Arkadi Monastery. If you plan to drive, check the directions in advance, because the roads can be narrow and signs sparse.
Good to know
The mountain villages around Rethymno are famous for their dairy, including the fresh cheese myzithra and the aged graviera, and a class often involves tasting or making a simple cheese pie. The setting changes with the season, from fresh green hills in spring to golden dry slopes in late summer.
If you drive, check how the road is on a wet day, and ask the hosts for a pin on a map. Bring cash for any products you want to buy, such as honey, cheese or herbs, and a cool bag if you plan to carry them back to a hot car.
What to expect
The experience
A small-group cooking class at a traditional shepherd's shelter in the hills near Rethymno, ending with a shared meal.
Best time
Spring to autumn for outdoor cooking, and a cosy option in winter.
How long
About four hours including the meal.
Tips
Wear closed shoes, check the directions or transport, and tell the hosts about dietary needs.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors who want an authentic rural food experience away from the resorts.
- Families
- Children usually enjoy the animals and the hands-on cooking.
- Couples
- A relaxed day in the hills with a long lunch at the end.
- Pair with
- Arkadi Monastery and Rethymno Old Town.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
What is a shepherd's shelter?+
A mitato is a stone hut used by shepherds in the mountains to make cheese and shelter from the weather, and it is a symbol of pastoral life in Crete.
Is the class held outdoors?+
Parts of it may be, depending on the season and weather. Check the arrangements when you book.
Do I need to drive?+
Check whether pick-up is included or whether you have to reach the site yourself, and look at the directions in advance.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes, families are usually welcome and children enjoy the setting, but check the minimum age.
Can I join as a vegetarian?+
Often yes, since many Cretan dishes are vegetable-based, but tell the hosts in advance.
