Journey deep into the UNESCO-recognised Mastichochoria — the medieval mastic-producing villages of Pyrgi, Mesta, and Olympi — tasting the island's legendary 'tears of Chios' at source, guided by a passionate local expert.
What to expect
Pyrgi's facades are painted in extraordinary black-and-white geometric sgraffito patterns that look like a Cubist dream — a UNESCO-protected art form found nowhere else on Earth. In Mesta, the medieval alleyways were deliberately labyrinthine to confuse pirates; your guide decodes its secret architecture. At a family mastic farm, you witness the scoring of the trees and taste the raw resin alongside mastic-infused spirits, sweets, and cosmetics. The tour culminates in a long, convivial lunch built entirely around mastic-flavoured Chiot cuisine.
Good to know
The mastic villages are ~25–35 km from the port; private transfer recommended. The best light for photographing Pyrgi's sgraffito facades is mid-morning. Book the private option to avoid being merged with other groups. Confirm all-aboard time when booking.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Chios — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.