Knossos & Lasithi Plateau Villages,Zeuss Land,&Olive Oil Factory

Crete’s rich history and culture come alive on this immersive tour. Explore the ancient Palace of Knossos, uncover the secrets of the Lasithi Plateau, and savor the flavors of Cretan olive oil and honey. With expert guides leading the way, you’ll gain unique insights into the island’s captivating heritage. But the real adventure lies in the personal connections you’ll make along the way, as you discover the heart and soul of this legendary land.

Key Points

• This small-group tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Knossos Palace, Lasithi Plateau villages, and an olive oil factory in Crete.
• Highlights include guided tours of the ancient Knossos ruins, tastings of local olive oil and honey, and a traditional Cretan lunch.
• The tour is led by knowledgeable, English-speaking guides who provide insights into Cretan culture and history.
• Pickup and meeting points are available from various locations in Crete, with an additional transfer charge for some areas.
• The tour is stroller-accessible but not wheelchair-accessible, and service animals are allowed.

Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Knossos & Lasithi Plateau Villages, Zeus Land, Olive Oil Factory," takes travelers on an immersive exploration of Crete, Greece.

With 64 glowing reviews and a 5.0 rating, the tour offers a comprehensive experience at just $95.55 per person.

Highlights include visiting the ancient Knossos Palace, tasting local olive oil and honey, and enjoying a traditional Cretan lunch.

The small-group format (maximum 12 travelers) and knowledgeable, friendly guides ensure a personalized and engaging journey through Crete’s rich history and culture.

Pickup and drop-off from various locations, along with accessibility accommodations, make this tour convenient for travelers.

Inclusions

Liability insurance, olive oil and honey tasting, water, coffee, and a traditional Cretan lunch with house wine are all included in the tour price.

Entrance fees at the Knossos Archaeological Site, with a reduced rate for kids, are covered too.

Travelers will benefit from the expertise of an official licensed tourist guide inside the Knossos Palace.

The small group size, capped at 12 people, ensures a personalized experience with an informative local English-speaking driver/guide.

This comprehensive package offers a well-rounded exploration of Cretan culture, history, and cuisine.

Pickup and Meeting Points

Where do travelers meet for this tour? The tour offers pickup and drop-off from hotels or designated areas in several locations, including Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, Plaka, and more. An extra transfer charge of €15 per person applies for those coming from Agia Pelagia, Ligaria, or Sissi. For travelers from Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, or Rethymno, meeting points are available for groups of more than 6. Unfortunately, no pickups are available from Chania.

Pickup Locations	Extra Transfer Charge
Heraklion	No
Agios Nikolaos	No
Elounda	No
Agia Pelagia	€15 per person
Ligaria	€15 per person
Sissi	€15 per person

Accessibility and Additional Information

Not wheelchair accessible, but stroller accessible. Service animals are allowed, and infant seats are available.

While most travelers can participate, those with further accessibility inquiries should contact +30 6974724839.

This tour offers an engaging and informative look into Cretan culture, history, and cuisine. Guests can expect tailored experiences that accommodate their family’s needs and preferences.

The knowledgeable, engaging, and friendly guides (like Mike and Dimitri) ensure a memorable journey through the Palace of Knossos, mountain villages, and an olive oil processing plant.

Guest Experience and Feedback

What do guests have to say about this tour?

Travelers praise the tour’s highlights, from the olive oil factory to the captivating Palace of Knossos.

Guides like Mike and Dimitri impress with their knowledge, engagement, and friendliness.

Guests appreciate the tour’s ability to accommodate family needs and preferences, providing unique insights into Cretan culture, history, and cuisine.

The tour receives glowing reviews, with 100% of travelers recommending it.

One guest remarked, "This was the highlight of our trip to Crete – a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty."

Exploring Knossos Archaeological Site

As the centerpiece of the tour, visitors to Knossos Archaeological Site explore the rich history and culture of the Minoan civilization.

Guided by an expert, they explore the intricate ruins of the well-preserved Bronze Age palace, marveling at the advanced architectural features and vibrant frescoes.

From the grand ceremonial halls to the sophisticated plumbing system, the site offers a captivating glimpse into the sophisticated society that once thrived here.

Guests are enchanted by the mythical tales and legends that bring the ancient site to life, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for Crete’s enduring legacy.

Discovering the Lasithi Plateau Villages

Where do the Lasithi Plateau villages come into play on this captivating tour? After exploring the grand Minoan ruins of Knossos, the tour takes visitors to the remote, yet enchanting Lasithi Plateau. Nestled between towering mountains, these traditional villages offer a glimpse into Crete’s bucolic past. Travelers can stroll past whitewashed homes, admire windmills dotting the landscape, and visit a family-run olive oil factory to sample the region’s renowned liquid gold. The table below highlights the highlights of this immersive cultural experience:

Activity	Duration
Mountain Village Visit	1 hour
Olive Oil Factory Tour	30 minutes
Cretan Lunch	1 hour

Ultimately, the Lasithi Plateau villages provide an authentic, off-the-beaten-path interlude, complementing the grand archaeological wonders of Knossos.

Visiting the Olive Oil Factory and Tasting Cretan Delicacies

After exploring the historic ruins of Knossos, the tour takes visitors to an authentic olive oil processing plant nestled in the heart of the picturesque Lasithi Plateau.

At the factory, guests learn about the time-honored tradition of olive oil production in Crete. They observe the entire process, from harvesting to bottling, and enjoy a tasting of the farm’s aromatic, extra-virgin olive oil paired with local honey.

The tour also introduces travelers to other Cretan culinary delights, like rustic bread and raki, the island’s signature spirit.

This immersive experience provides a deeper appreciation for Crete’s rich gastronomic heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location?

The tour spends approximately 1.5 hours at Knossos, 1 hour at mountain villages, 30 minutes at an olive oil factory, and allows time for a traditional Cretan lunch and tastings throughout the day.

Can We Make Stops Along the Way for Photos?

Yes, the tour allows for photo stops along the way. The knowledgeable guides provide opportunities to capture the scenic landscapes, villages, and historical sites on the itinerary. Guests can enjoy taking photos to remember the highlights of the day.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour is suitable for young children, as it includes infant seats and allows service animals. The small group size and tailored experiences make it accommodating for families. Children can also enjoy the olive oil and honey tasting.

Is Water and Snacks Provided Throughout the Day?

The tour includes water and traditional Cretan coffee throughout the day, as well as a tasty local lunch with house wine. This helps keep travelers hydrated and energized during the excursion.

Can We Use the Restroom Facilities at the Stops?

Yes, restroom facilities are available at the various stops throughout the tour. The driver and guide ensure travelers have opportunities to use the restrooms during the day’s activities.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour offers a glimpse into Crete’s rich past and vibrant present. Visitors explore the legendary Palace of Knossos, discover charming plateau villages, and indulge in local olive oil and honey. With small groups and expert guides, travelers enjoy a personalized and immersive experience, providing unforgettable insights into Cretan heritage. Highly rated by previous guests, this tour promises an adventure that delves deep into the heart of this enchanting island.