A Love Toasted with Wine

A Celebration Rooted in Tradition

At The Via Vita, we believe that some of life’s most unforgettable moments are born where culture, connection, and celebration intertwine. One such extraordinary journey unfolded in Crete, where a small group of ten gathered to celebrate love through a wedding rich in flavor, tradition, and the island’s finest wines.

A Sunset Wedding in the Heart of Crete

The ceremony took place in a charming vineyard estate, nestled among rolling hills blanketed with olive groves and endless vines. As the golden Cretan sun dipped low, the bride walked down an aisle framed by wildflowers, her footsteps accompanied by the gentle strum of a live Cretan lyra.

The intimate ceremony unfolded beneath an ancient olive tree, its twisted branches adorned with delicate lanterns. Surrounded by their closest loved ones, the couple exchanged vows as the scent of rosemary and thyme filled the air.

"It felt like we had stepped back in time" recalled one guest. "The whole setting was so peaceful , like a hidden world made just for us."

A Feast Inspired by Crete’s Culinary Heritage

As twilight turned to night, the group gathered at a long wooden table set beneath a canopy of vines. The meal was an ode to Crete’s rich culinary heritage ,a celebration of land, sea, and tradition.

Guests were welcomed with Cretan dakos , crisp barley rusks topped with fresh tomatoes, creamy mizithra cheese, and a drizzle of local olive oil. Plates of grilled lamb marinated with rosemary, oregano, and lemon followed, alongside fresh seafood caught that morning.

The highlight was a traditional antikristo, where lamb was slow-roasted over an open fire , a time honoured Cretan technique. Each dish was paired with exquisite wines handpicked from the vineyard’s private cellar ,bold reds from Liatiko grapes and crisp whites from Assyrtiko vines.

"The flavors were incredible," one guest remembered. "Every sip of wine seemed to tell a story about the island."

Exploring Crete Through Wine & Flavour

The following day, the newlyweds and their guests embarked on a curated wine exploration tour , winding through the villages of Archanes, Peza, and Dafnes, each known for their centuries-old vineyards.

They explored family-run wineries where owners shared stories passed down through generations. In one rustic cellar, they sipped earthy reds directly from the barrel while learning the secrets behind Crete’s unique grape varieties.

"Tasting wine with the people who crafted it made each glass more special," said one guest. "It wasn’t just wine , it was storytelling in a bottle."

An Unforgettable Voyage at Sea

To complete their journey, the group set sail along Crete’s stunning coastline, exploring hidden beaches and remote seaside tavernas. Anchored in a secluded bay, they swam in turquoise waters before enjoying fresh octopus, grilled sardines, and chilled rosé on deck.

"It was the perfect way to end our trip," the bride reflected. "A toast to friendship, family, and unforgettable memories."

A Celebration to Savour Forever

For this group, Crete became more than just a wedding destination , it became a feast for the senses, a journey of flavour and tradition, and a celebration of love that will be remembered for years to come.

At The Via Vita, we know that the best experiences blend culture, cuisine, and connection. Because the most meaningful journeys aren’t just about where you go , they’re about the stories you take home with you.