Kokkino Chorio Glassblowing Factory
Discover stunning art from recycled glass, from vibrant lights to unique sculptures. Witness craftsmanship with an eco-friendly focus.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Glassblowing demos are more frequent
Kokkino Chorio Glassblowing Factory
Best Time
Glassblowing demos are more frequent
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover stunning art from recycled glass, from vibrant lights to unique sculptures. Witness craftsmanship with an eco-friendly focus.
"Breathtaking display of glass goodies, an opportunity you shouldn't miss!"
📞 Confirm Demo Times
Glassblowing demos are seasonal (often winter). Call ahead to ensure you can witness the magic!
🚗 Winding Roads Ahead
The drive can be scenic but nauseatingly winding. Be prepared for a bumpy ride!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Artisan Glassblowing Process
Factory floor
Witness the mesmerizing creation of glass art firsthand. A truly captivating spectacle of skill and artistry.
Recycled Glass Masterpieces
Showroom
Explore a breathtaking display of unique sculptures, vases, and lights, all ethically made from recycled materials.
Colorful Ceiling Lights
Showroom
Admire the unique, frond-shaped ceiling lights and vibrant colored globes that add a touch of artistry to any space.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Glassblowing Demos
Recycled Glass, Unique Souvenirs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Opportunity to learn a skill?
📞 Confirm Demo Times
Glassblowing demos are seasonal (often winter). Call ahead to ensure you can witness the magic!
🚗 Winding Roads Ahead
The drive can be scenic but nauseatingly winding. Be prepared for a bumpy ride!
💡 Eco-Friendly Finds
Shop for unique, ethical gifts made from recycled glass. A sustainable souvenir choice.
🛍️ Ash Trays Galore
While beautiful, many small dishes are ash-tray shaped. Look carefully for other dish styles.
Tips
from all over the internet
📞 Confirm Demo Times
Glassblowing demos are seasonal (often winter). Call ahead to ensure you can witness the magic!
🚗 Winding Roads Ahead
The drive can be scenic but nauseatingly winding. Be prepared for a bumpy ride!
💡 Eco-Friendly Finds
Shop for unique, ethical gifts made from recycled glass. A sustainable souvenir choice.
🛍️ Ash Trays Galore
While beautiful, many small dishes are ash-tray shaped. Look carefully for other dish styles.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the stunning, unique art crafted from recycled glass, with colorful ceiling lights being a particular highlight. However, many express disappointment as live glassblowing demonstrations are often seasonal (winter) and not consistently available, leading to a less engaging experience for some. The winding drive is also noted as a challenge.
"Some amazing sculptured glass and vases.The coloured ceiling light globes were special and frond shaped ceiling lights were unique.
One thing I would say,nearly all the small dishes were in the form of ash trays,when I really just wanted a small to medium sized dish."
Stephen Walker
"They create some beautiful glass pieces from jugs, glasses to bowls and lights. All made from recycled glass.
This place is definitely worth a visit. Especially when they have the guys blowing the glass. That is really worth watching."
Manoj Malde
"Our visit to Tzompanakis Blown Glass was very disappointing. The staff was polite but limited English, and the best part of the visit was the long drive with nausea inducing winding turns to get there. I appreciated seeing the pieces on display, but the actual glass blowing we learned, only happens during a few months in the winter only (mentioned no where on their website).
The facility was clean, but the environment lacked a lively or inspiring atmosphere. There was limited interaction and the location is simply a poorly lit dusty warehouse, which was quite a bit disappointing.
Prices for art were average, and I didn’t find anything particularly special or unique. I wouldn’t go out of my way for it unless you can confirm that there is actual glass blowing in action and that you can view the process.
Overall, it could be a cool visit if you could watch the artisans in action but without that it’s a serious waste of time.
Update, I removed the two photos of my family as requested and deleted them from my phone. I figured it was ok to post because I see photos in other reviews."
Edward W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The factory is located in Kokkino Chorio, Crete. Many visitors drive, but be aware the roads can be very winding and narrow. Renting a car is often recommended for flexibility. Public transport options might be limited, so check local bus schedules in advance.
Yes, the drive involves many nausea-inducing winding turns. It's advisable to be prepared for a challenging but scenic journey.
GPS is generally reliable, but be mindful of the winding roads. It's a good idea to have a general sense of direction or a co-pilot to help navigate.
Kokkino Chorio itself is a charming village. You might also consider exploring other nearby villages or natural attractions on Crete, though the factory is the main draw in this specific area.
Typically, there is parking available near the factory, but it can get busy during peak times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the showroom and viewing area is generally free. However, to witness actual glassblowing demonstrations, it's crucial to confirm if there are specific times or if it's included with entry.
Opening hours can vary, and it's highly recommended to check their official website or contact them directly. Some reviews suggest demonstrations are limited to winter months.
Most visitors report that browsing the showroom is free of charge.
Yes, the factory has a shop where you can buy a wide variety of glass art and functional items. Prices are considered average.
Information on discounts is not widely available. It's best to inquire directly with the factory if you are part of a group or have specific needs.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
This is a key point of confusion. Many visitors were disappointed as demonstrations are often limited to winter months and not always advertised. It's essential to confirm demo schedules beforehand.
You'll find a stunning array of items, including jugs, glasses, bowls, lights, sculptures, and decorative pieces, all made from recycled glass.
Some reviews mention the environment can feel like a poorly lit, dusty warehouse, lacking a lively atmosphere, especially if no demonstrations are happening.
While some visitors found the staff polite, others noted limited English proficiency. The owners are described as friendly and informative by some.
Many items are described as unique and beautiful, especially the colored ceiling light globes and frond-shaped designs.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
Consider their unique sculptures, vases, and especially the colorful ceiling light globes. Small, exquisite items also make great gifts.
Prices are generally considered average. The value is in the unique, handmade nature of the recycled glass art.
Yes, they sell small dishes, though some visitors noted a prevalence of ash-tray shapes among the smaller items.
Absolutely! The factory offers a wide range of exquisite small items and larger masterpieces that make perfect, memorable gifts.
Yes, a significant positive aspect is that all the glass is made from recycled materials, making it an ethical and eco-friendly choice.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If demonstrations aren't happening, the showroom still offers a visually stimulating display of colorful glass items. It's a good opportunity to talk to children about recycling and sustainability, as all the pieces are made from recycled materials. Be mindful that the drive to the factory can be very winding, which might be challenging for younger children.
🛍️ Budget Travelers & Souvenir Hunters
Prices are generally considered average for handmade art. The real value lies in the uniqueness and the story behind each piece. It's a chance to bring home a tangible reminder of Crete that aligns with eco-conscious values. Just remember to manage expectations regarding live demonstrations, as they are not always guaranteed.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Recycled Glassblowing
While the artistry is undeniable, the experience of witnessing the glassblowing process itself can be inconsistent. Many visitors have noted that actual glassblowing demonstrations are often limited to the winter months and are not always advertised. This can lead to disappointment if you visit during other times of the year expecting to see the artisans at work. It's highly recommended to contact the factory directly to confirm demonstration schedules before making a special trip.
Despite potential inconsistencies in live demonstrations, the showroom itself offers a breathtaking display of craftsmanship. The colored ceiling light globes and unique frond-shaped designs are particularly memorable. Even without seeing the blowing process, the sheer variety and beauty of the recycled glass art make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in unique, handcrafted items with an environmental focus.
Navigating the Journey to Kokkino Chorio
While GPS navigation is generally reliable, it's wise to have a co-pilot or a good sense of direction to help manage the intricate road network. The drive, though potentially difficult, often rewards visitors with stunning views of the Cretan countryside. It's part of the adventure and contributes to the remote, authentic feel of the destination.
If driving is not an option, researching local bus schedules in advance is crucial, as public transport might be less frequent or direct. The effort to reach Kokkino Chorio is often considered worthwhile by those who appreciate unique, handcrafted art and the opportunity to support an eco-friendly business.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit