Koumoutsi Family Organic Farm

The Land of Medicine The history of the farm is deeply rooted in the mythological geography of the region. The farm is located on the slopes of Palia Chania, an area historically known as the “pharmacy of nature” due to its incredible biodiversity of healing herbs. According to legend, this was the domain of the Centaur Chiron, who taught the god Asclepius the art of medicine using the very plants that still grow on the farm’s borders today. This ancient legacy of healing influences the family’s philosophy, viewing food not just as sustenance, but as natural medicine.

The Beekeeping Tradition Long before the modern farm was established, the Koumoutsis family had a decades-long tradition in apiculture (beekeeping). They utilized the rich flora of Mount Pelion—chestnut, fir, and wild thyme—to produce honey of exceptional purity. This generational knowledge is the foundation of their current success, allowing them to maintain healthy beehives that produce nutrient-rich royal jelly, pollen, and propolis without the use of industrial chemicals.

The Apple Revolution While honey was the start, the farm’s true breakthrough came with the cultivation of organic apples. Recognizing the unique microclimate of the Chania region, the family began producing a specialized Apple Cider Vinegar. Unlike commercial vinegars, theirs is unfiltered, unpasteurized, and free from preservatives, retaining the “mother” of the vinegar which is rich in proteins and beneficial bacteria. This product has become their signature export, certified by the DIO Organization for its organic purity.

The Shift to Agrotourism In recent years, the family made the strategic decision to open their doors to the public, transforming from simple producers into hosts. They built the beautifully decorated sales shop at the 5th kilometer of the Portaria-Chania road to serve as a welcoming point for travelers. This move allowed them to bypass middlemen and share their passion for organic farming directly with consumers, educating visitors on the difference between industrial food and the “gifts of nature” produced on the mountain.

Koumoutsi Today: A Hub of Wellness Today, the farm is a thriving hub of sustainability and wellness. It serves as a vital stop for food tours in Pelion, attracting visitors who want to stock up on genuine local products before heading to the ski center or the beaches. The family continues to expand their range, now offering extra virgin cold-pressed olive oil alongside their famous honeys and vinegars, ensuring that every product on their shelf is a testament to the purity of the Pelion ecosystem.