Crete: Lasithi Plateau, Zeus Cave & Villages Tour With Meal

Crete’s Lasithi Plateau offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and historic allure, beckoning travelers to uncover its hidden gems. From the renowned Zeus Cave, where the mighty Greek god was born, to the Byzantine-influenced Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, this tour promises to immerse visitors in the rich tapestry of Cretan heritage. Beyond the iconic sites, participants can savor the region’s culinary delights, including a traditional Greek lunch and an enlightening visit to an olive mill, shedding light on the integral role of olive oil in the island’s renowned gastronomic traditions. Discover the enchanting layers that define Crete’s Lasithi Plateau, where the past and present converge in a harmony that captivates the senses.

Key Points

• Explore the natural wonders and historic sites of Lasithi Plateau, including visits to Zeus Cave and a traditional olive mill.
• Venture into the Diktaion Andron (Zeus Cave), the legendary birthplace of the Greek god Zeus, and marvel at its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
• Admire the unique Byzantine-style architecture and religious artifacts at the Kera Kardiotissa Orthodox monastery, learning about the region’s deep-rooted Orthodox traditions.
• Wander beneath the sprawling branches of the 2,000-year-old plane tree in Krasi, a testament to the resilience of Crete’s natural landscapes.
• Enjoy a traditional Greek lunch with regional wine, immersing in the local culinary heritage and engaging with the Cretan community.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This small-group tour provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the natural wonders and historic sites of Crete’s Lasithi Plateau, including the renowned Zeus Cave and a visit to a traditional olive mill.

The tour begins with photo stops at the Aposelemis Dam, offering scenic views. Next, guests will venture into the Diktaion Andron, also known as the Zeus Cave, where the Greek god Zeus was said to have been born.

The tour then visits the Kera Kardiotissa Orthodox monastery to admire its impressive architecture and museum. Afterward, guests will stop in the village of Krasi to see the 2,000-year-old plane tree before enjoying a traditional Greek lunch with wine.

Throughout the day, the small group size ensures a personalized and immersive experience.

Highlights of the Tour

The tour begins with photo stops at the Aposelemis Dam, where visitors can capture scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

Next, guests venture into the Diktaion Andron, also known as the Zeus Cave, which is believed to be the birthplace of the Greek god Zeus. After exploring the cave, the group visits the Kera Kardiotissa Orthodox monastery to admire its unique architecture and browse the onsite museum.

The tour then takes them to the village of Krasi, where they can marvel at the 2,000-year-old plane tree. To cap off the experience, participants enjoy a traditional Greek lunch with wine in Krasi, seeing the local culinary culture.

Visiting Diktaion Andron (Zeus Cave)

During the tour, visitors venture into the Diktaion Andron, also known as the Zeus Cave, which is believed to be the birthplace of the Greek god Zeus. This renowned cave, located on the Lasithi Plateau, holds significant historical and mythological importance, drawing visitors from around the world to explore its ancient chambers and learn about its legendary past.

The cave’s imposing entrance leads to a series of cavernous rooms, where visitors can marvel at the impressive stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over centuries. As they wander through the dimly lit passages, they’ll discover ancient artifacts and hear tales of the cave’s sacred role in Greek mythology, offering a glimpse into the rich history of Crete.

Exploring Kera Kardiotissa Orthodox Monastery

As part of the tour, visitors stop at the Kera Kardiotissa Orthodox monastery, where they can admire the unique architectural features and explore the on-site museum.

The monastery’s captivating Byzantine-style structure, with its striking dome and ornate façade, provides a glimpse into the rich religious heritage of Crete.

Inside, the museum showcases a collection of religious artifacts, including intricate icons and ancient manuscripts that offer insights into the region’s deep-rooted Orthodox traditions.

Guests have the opportunity to wander the peaceful grounds, taking in the serene atmosphere and learning about the monastery’s history and significance within the local community.

This stop on the tour allows visitors to enjoy Crete’s enduring spiritual and cultural legacy.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Admiring the Plane Tree in Krasi

After exploring the historic Kera Kardiotissa Orthodox monastery, the tour moves on to the charming village of Krasi, where visitors can admire the impressive 2,000-year-old plane tree that stands as a testament to the region’s enduring natural heritage.

This majestic tree, believed to be one of the oldest of its kind in Europe, towers over the picturesque village, providing shade and beauty to all who gaze upon it. Guests are invited to wander beneath its sprawling branches, marveling at the sheer scale and age of this living wonder.

The tree’s incredible longevity is a testament to the resilience of Crete’s natural landscapes, which have captivated visitors for centuries.

Enjoying a Traditional Greek Lunch

The tour then takes guests to the charming village of Krasi, where they enjoy a traditional Greek lunch accompanied by local wine.

Participants savor an authentic spread of Cretan delicacies, such as freshly baked bread, locally sourced olive oil, crisp salads, hearty stews, and fragrant herbs, all skillfully prepared by the village’s renowned culinary experts.

This leisurely midday meal not only nourishes the body but also provides a delightful opportunity to take in the rich cultural traditions of the region.

The lunch includes:

1. A variety of freshly prepared Cretan dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
2. Complementary glasses of regional wine to enhance the flavors of the meal.
3. An opportunity to engage with the local community and learn about their culinary heritage.

Olive Mill Experience

During the tour, visitors get the chance to explore a traditional olive mill, where they can witness the process of olive oil production firsthand. They’ll tour the facility, learning about the history and techniques involved in extracting the precious liquid from the humble olive. Afterward, participants have the opportunity to taste the freshly pressed oil, gaining a deeper appreciation for this integral part of Cretan culinary culture.

Processing Steps	Duration	Equipment Used
Olive Harvesting	1-2 weeks	Hand-held rakes, nets
Washing & Sorting	30 minutes	Water tanks, conveyor belts
Crushing	15 minutes	Stone mills, steel hammers
Malaxing	30-45 minutes	Mixer tanks
Centrifugal Separation	10 minutes	Centrifuges

Transportation and Pricing

This tour is accessible via a small group transportation setup, with participants being picked up and dropped off at their Crete accommodations. The tour is priced at $108.31 per person and lasts approximately 7 hours, with a cancelation policy that allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The transportation for this tour includes:

1. A small group size with a maximum of 8 participants.
2. Travel by comfortable van to the various sites and attractions.
3. Convenient pickup and drop-off at your accommodations in Crete, ensuring a seamless start and end to your day.

With its competitive pricing and flexible cancelation policy, this tour offers an excellent value for travelers looking to explore the Lasithi Plateau, Zeus Cave, and villages of Crete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book the Tour for a Specific Date and Time?

Yes, customers can book the tour for a specific date and time. The tour operator offers flexible scheduling, allowing travelers to select their preferred departure time to fit their itinerary during their stay in Crete.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is 8 participants. The small-group tour ensures a more personalized experience and allows for easier navigation through the sites and villages visited during the 7-hour excursion.

Are Photographs Allowed Inside the Zeus Cave?

Photographs are generally allowed inside the Zeus Cave, but visitors should check with the tour guide or local authorities for any restrictions. Photos may be limited in certain areas to preserve the cave’s delicate environment and archaeological significance.

Will the Tour Guide Speak English?

The tour guide will likely speak English fluently, as this is a small-group tour catered towards international visitors. English is commonly used to ensure all participants can fully understand the information provided during the guided portions of the experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

The tour duration is fixed at 7 hours, and there’s no option to extend it. The tour package has a specific itinerary and schedule that cannot be modified. Extending the duration would require booking a separate, customized tour.

Recap

Crete’s Lasithi Plateau tour offers a captivating exploration of natural and historic wonders.

Visitors can discover the birthplace of Zeus, admire Byzantine architecture, and enjoy a traditional Greek lunch with regional wine.

The tour also provides an opportunity to learn about the integral role of olive oil in Cretan cuisine by visiting a traditional olive mill.

This comprehensive experience showcases the diverse cultural and natural attractions that make Crete a truly remarkable destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: