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

The Knossos & Lasithi Plateau: Land of Zeus, Villages, Olive Oil Tour offers an engaging way to explore some of Crete’s most iconic sites in just one day. Priced at $121.65 per person, this 7 to 8-hour tour departs from Heraklion and includes door-to-door transportation in a luxury vehicle with Wi-Fi, making the day both comfortable and informative. The tour combines cultural highlights, such as the Palace of Knossos, with scenic stops at Lasithi Plateau and the Olive Press, along with visits to traditional villages. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-paced experience without the hassle of planning multiple logistics.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its highly positive reputation, with a 5-star rating based on 233 reviews and recommended by 100% of participants. The tour employs knowledgeable guides who are praised for their friendly, engaging, and informative style, making each stop feel personal and meaningful. With the flexibility of small-group or private options, it suits those who prefer a more intimate setting or a customized experience.

One notable aspect is the balance of activities: from learning about olive oil production at a traditional press, to exploring ancient sites like Knossos, and enjoying local cuisine in scenic settings. Visitors should keep in mind that the Zeus Cave will be closed for construction starting October 2, 2024, which is a change from previous experiences.

This tour offers excellent value for its price, especially given the inclusion of transport, guided commentary, and local snacks. It’s recommended for those interested in history, culture, and scenic landscapes, wanting to maximize their Crete day with minimal stress.

Key Points

• Includes door-to-door transfers in luxury vehicles with Wi-Fi
• Visits Knossos Palace, the Bronze Age ceremonial center of the Minoan civilization
• Stops at Lasithi Plateau, believed to be the birthplace of Zeus, with panoramic mountain views
• Olive oil tasting at a traditional Omalia Olive Press, with insights into ancient and modern harvesting methods
• Explores the village of Krasi, home to a 2000-year-old plane tree, with free time for coffee and photos
• Stops in Mochos village for a taste of local life and Crete’s warm hospitality
• Includes traditional snacks such as homemade pastries and goat yogurt
• Tour duration is approximately 7 to 8 hours, ideal for a full, relaxed day

Departure and Pickup Convenience in Heraklion

This tour starts at En Plo Egeou in Heraklion, with pickup and drop-off included from your hotel, harbor, or designated meeting points within Heraklion. The private tour is exclusively for your group, ensuring a personalized experience. Shared mini-group options are available within the Heraklion region, offering a slightly more social atmosphere if preferred.

Scenic Drive in a Luxury Vehicle with Wi-Fi

Traveling in a luxury air-conditioned minivan, guests enjoy Wi-Fi access, allowing them to share photos or stay connected during the day. The comfortable, stylish transportation helps make the long drives between sites enjoyable rather than tedious, with the driver serving as your local expert on Crete’s landscapes.

Exploring the Archaeological Site of Knossos

The visit to Knossos Palace is a major highlight, where the Bronze Age Minoan civilization’s ceremonial and political center unfolds before you. The complex, associated with King Minos, is considered the oldest city in Europe. The admission fee is not included, but the guided tour provides extensive explanations about its fascinating history and architecture. The one-and-a-half-hour exploration allows enough time to soak in the impressive frescoes and intricate layout of this ancient site.

Discovering the Cultural Charm of Lasithi Plateau

One of the most captivating stops on this tour is the Lasithi Plateau, surrounded by the Dikti Mountains. This fertile land, once home to the first wind farm in the world, features traditional windmills and offers panoramic views of Crete’s mountainous landscape. The site holds mythological significance as the birthplace of Zeus, adding a mythic dimension to the visit. Travelers should note that the Zeus Cave will be unavailable starting October 2024 for construction, but the plateau itself remains a stunning highlight.

Visiting the Omalia Olive Press: A Taste of Tradition

The Olive Press at Omalia provides an authentic look into Crete’s famed olive oil industry, run by a four-generation family. Visitors learn about traditional harvesting methods dating back to ancient times and see how oil is produced today. The olive oil tasting session is a sensory treat, allowing you to sample high-quality, freshly pressed oils. This stop combines cultural education with sensory delight, making it a favorite among guests.

Exploring Krasi Village and Its Ancient Plane Tree

The small village of Krasi is famed for its over 2000-year-old plane tree. The tour allows ample time to relax at a local taverna, enjoy coffee, and capture pictures of the picturesque surroundings. The village’s tranquil atmosphere and historic tree make it a picturesque stop that emphasizes Crete’s timeless charm.

End in Mochos: A Village Full of Crete’s Spirit

The tour concludes in the traditional village of Mochos, where visitors can mingle with locals in village cafes. This stop offers a chance to experience everyday life in Crete, with relaxed conversations and a welcoming vibe. The drive back wraps up the day with memories of scenic views, cultural insights, and authentic flavors.

Food and Local Cuisine

Guests have the option to buy lunch at Restaurant Tzanakis Michael, overlooking the Lassithi Plateau, with authentic Cretan dishes cooked in a wood-fired oven. Although lunch is not included in the tour price, this stop offers an opportunity to enjoy local flavors in a scenic setting. The tour also provides traditional snacks such as homemade pastries and goat yogurt during the day, adding to the authentic experience.

Flexibility and Customization

This tour stands out for its flexibility, offering the choice between small-group or private experiences. The private option is especially popular among guests seeking a more personalized and relaxed pace, with guides who are known for their friendly, engaging, and knowledgeable approach. The tour is designed to move at a comfortable pace, with plenty of time at each stop to explore and enjoy.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Travelers should be aware that the Zeus Cave will be closed for construction starting October 2024. The tour duration makes it suitable for most fitness levels, but some walking is involved at sites like Knossos and Lasithi Plateau. The pickup and drop-off service makes logistics simple, especially for those staying in Heraklion. Weather conditions can affect the experience, especially at higher elevations, so bringing a jacket is advisable during cooler months.

Final Thoughts on the Knossos & Lasithi Plateau Tour

This 7 to 8-hour Crete tour offers a well-balanced mix of archaeology, myth, scenic landscapes, and local culture. The inclusion of expert guides who are praised for their friendly demeanor and depth of knowledge adds significant value. The scenic drives, engaging stops, and authentic experiences make this a reliable choice for those wanting to see Crete’s highlights without the stress of independent planning.

While the Zeus Cave’s closure is a temporary drawback, the overall itinerary remains compelling. The tour’s flexibility, luxury transportation, and authentic touches ensure an enjoyable and meaningful day. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate culture, scenic views, and delicious local food.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, door-to-door pickup and drop-off in a luxury air-conditioned minivan with Wi-Fi are included.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour offers private options for a more personalized experience. You can choose small-group or private tours to suit your preferences.

What sites are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Omalia Olive Press, Krasi village, Lasithi Plateau, and Knossos Palace. The Zeus Cave is scheduled to be closed for construction starting October 2024.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is optional and not included in the tour price, but a recommended local tavern offers authentic Cretan dishes overlooking the plateau.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a jacket during cooler months, and a camera for the scenic vistas and historic sites.

This tour provides a rich, authentic look at Crete in just one day, perfect for those eager to see the island’s highlights with knowledgeable guides and flexible options tailored to your travel style.