Knossos & Lasithi Plateau: Land of Zeus, Villages, Olive Oil Tour

This comprehensive tour of Crete offers a successful blend of history, natural beauty, and local flavors. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and the detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-rounded experience that caters to those eager to see the island’s highlights comfortably and authentically.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the luxury transportation with Wi-Fi ensures you stay comfortable and connected throughout your adventure. Second, the local guides receive high praise for their knowledge and personable approach—meaning you’ll learn interesting stories and tips you won’t find in guidebooks. Third, the balance of cultural sites, villages, and scenic views ensures a varied and engaging day.

The main consideration? The Zeus Cave is closed for construction starting October 2024, which might be a disappointment for some. Also, the tour can be quite full on certain days, so booking in advance is essential.

This tour suits a wide range of travelers—whether you’re into history, scenic landscapes, authentic cuisine, or simply want a hassle-free way to explore Crete’s diverse corners in one day.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines history, landscapes, and local culture in a single day.
• Comfort & Convenience: Door-to-door transfers and luxury vehicle make for a relaxed trip.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Fabio, Marinos, and Nikos are praised for their engaging, informative style.
• Authentic Tasting: Olive oil tastings, traditional snacks, and local lunch offer genuine tastes of Crete.
• Flexible and Small Group Options: Private and small-group options mean more personalized attention.
• Value for Money: At around $122, the combination of transport, guiding, and multiple stops offers solid value considering the depth and variety.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Ease and Comfort

The tour begins with a pickup at your hotel or designated meeting point in Heraklion, which is a major plus—no need to worry about navigating public transport or fitting into a large tour group. The luxury minivan comes equipped with free Wi-Fi, so you can get some reading done or share photos during the drive.

Visit to Omalia Olive Press

The first stop at a traditional olive oil facility introduces you to Crete’s famed liquid gold. Here, you’ll learn about the long history and methods of olive harvesting—ranging from ancient techniques to modern practices. The tasting session is especially well-received; reviewers mention that the olive oils are of premium quality and that the experience really elevates the senses.

One reviewer, Melissa, highlighted that the guide’s knowledge about plants and wildlife added an extra layer of interest, making the visit more engaging. This stop lasts about 45 minutes, giving you enough time to soak in the sights and flavors without feeling rushed.

Krasi Village and the 2000-Year-Old Plane Tree

Next, you’re taken to Krasi, a small village famous for its ancient plane tree. Reviewer Arkadiy noted that the tree is over 2000 years old and makes a fantastic photo backdrop. You’ll have a chance to relax at a local taverna, enjoying a coffee and soaking in the village atmosphere. This stop is brief but memorable, perfect for capturing some authentic Crete moments.

The Scenic Lasithi Plateau

The highlight for many is the Lasithi Plateau, surrounded by towering Dikti Mountains. The views are stunning, and the legend of Zeus being born here adds a mythic touch to the landscape. The plateau still shows traces of its windmill past and was once home to the world’s first wind farm, giving it both historical and technological significance.

Traveling here is a real treat; the landscape is expansive and lush, especially in spring or early summer. The guide shares stories of Zeus’s myth and the windmills that once powered the local community. As one reviewer notes, the views are “breathtaking,” and the peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect stop for a gentle walk or some photos.

Note: The Zeus Cave is closed for construction starting October 2024, so this leg of the tour offers more scenery than caves for now.

Lunch with a View at Tzanakis Michael

A traditional tavern overlooking the plateau offers a chance to taste authentic Cretan cuisine. The food is cooked in a wood-fired oven, and reviewers mention dishes like goat yogurt, homemade pastries, and local cheeses. The meal is leisurely, and many appreciate the opportunity to relax amid scenic surroundings.

A few reviewers, like Melissa and Steven, called out the lunch as a highlight, praising the fresh flavors and generous portions. This stop often lasts about an hour, giving plenty of time to enjoy the food and chat with fellow travelers or guides.

Passing by the Byzantine Monastery

On the way back, you pass a 14th-century Byzantine monastery, famed for its frescoes and legendary icon of the Virgin Mary. Although not part of the main stops, the guide shares insights into its spiritual importance and artistic beauty, providing a quiet, reflective moment.

The Village of Mochos

Your final stop is Mochos, a charming village where locals gather in cafes. Here, you can mingle with residents, soak up the relaxed vibe, and maybe pick up a handmade souvenir. It’s an ideal spot to conclude the day with a sense of true Cretan life.

The Grand Finale: Knossos Palace

The last major stop is Knossos Archaeological Site, the Minoan civilization’s hub and the most famous archaeological site in Greece. The complex is vast, and you’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore its labyrinthine ruins.

While the admission fee is not included, reviews highlight the advantage of having a knowledgeable guide or optional licensed guide for a richer experience. Reviewers mention that visiting in the late afternoon helps avoid the crowds and heat—though some felt the time spent here could be better if guided explanations were included.

Return & Reflection

After a full day, you’ll be driven back to your hotel or starting point. Many travelers felt this tour offered a genuine, well-balanced insight into Crete’s past and present, with some mentioning the support from guides like Fabio, Marinos, and Nikos that made the experience feel personalized and heartfelt.

The Value of This Tour

At just over $120 per person, this tour is quite reasonable given the comprehensive itinerary, luxury transportation, and local guiding. The inclusion of door-to-door pickup and drop-off, along with complimentary snacks, water, and Wi-Fi, adds to the convenience and comfort.

The flexible options for private or small-group experiences mean you can customize your day to some extent, which many travelers found enhanced their enjoyment. Plus, the tasting experiences—olive oil, homemade pastries, goat yogurt—are authentic and add real flavor to your understanding of Crete’s culinary tradition.

While the Zeus Cave isn’t accessible during the tour, the landscape and stories suffice to keep the myth alive in your imagination. Many reviews mention how guides like Fabio, Marinos, and Nikos go out of their way to make the day memorable, sharing not just facts but stories that resonate.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits history buffs, food lovers, and scenery seekers looking for an in-depth yet relaxed day of exploring Crete. If you prefer the convenience of guided transport and meaningful storytelling, you’ll appreciate the guides’ local expertise. It’s also perfect for those wanting a private or small-group experience, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

Travelers interested in authentic tastes and cultural insights will value the olive oil tasting and local village visits. Meanwhile, those keen on beautiful landscapes and mythic stories will find the Lassithi Plateau and surrounding scenery captivating.

However, if you’re hoping to explore Zeus Cave in detail or prefer guided tours inside large archaeological sites, you might want to consider other options or arrive early for the Knossos visit.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers door-to-door pickup and drop-off from your hotel, harbor, or designated meeting points in Heraklion.

Can I join this tour from Rethymno or Chania?
Pickup from Rethymno or Chania is available but requires an additional cost, and must be arranged upon request.

Do I need to buy my own tickets for sites?
Admission to Knossos is not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to purchase tickets separately if you wish to explore the ruins thoroughly.

What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking on uneven surfaces, especially at Knossos and the plateau. It can also be windy and cooler at higher altitudes—consider bringing a light jacket.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, with most stops lasting between 20 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on your preferences.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers of all ages enjoy this experience, especially those interested in history and landscapes. However, be mindful that some walking is involved, and the tour is more engaging for older children and teens.

Final Thoughts

This Knossos & Lasithi Plateau tour offers a thoughtfully curated day that balances history, scenery, and local flavors. The high praise for guides like Fabio, Marinos, and Nikos highlights the value of personal stories and insider knowledge that elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The combination of luxury transportation, authentic tastings, and well-planned stops makes it an excellent choice for those wanting to get a broad sense of Crete without the stress of organizing multiple visits independently. It’s especially ideal for travelers who enjoy a flexible, intimate, and informative adventure.

If your goal is to experience Crete’s legendary sights, enjoy traditional cuisine, and learn about local life from passionate guides, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s a memorable way to see the best of the island in one day, perfect for history buffs, foodies, and anyone eager to explore Crete’s scenic, mythic, and flavorful side.