Knossos & Lasithi Plateau: Villages, Olive Oil Tour From Elounda

The Knossos & Lasithi Plateau: Villages, Olive Oil Tour From Elounda offers an engaging way to explore some of Crete’s most iconic sights in a single day. Priced at $712.87 per group, accommodating up to 7 travelers, this private tour is designed for those who prefer comfort, personalized attention, and a flexible schedule. It departs at 9:00 am and lasts about 8 to 9 hours, making it suitable for a full-day adventure. The inclusion of Wi-Fi on board, bottled water, and professional guides adds to the value, ensuring a seamless experience.

This tour is ideal for travelers eager to learn about Cretan history, olive oil production, and local villages. The guide, a knowledgeable local, shares captivating stories and cultural insights, making even lesser-known sites feel meaningful. While the Knossos Palace requires an admission fee of 20 euros per person, the rest of the stops are free, and the tour’s private nature guarantees no crowds or waiting. It’s a great option for those who want a deep, personalized exploration of eastern Crete, especially if you appreciate authentic local experiences.

Key Points

• Private guided tour from Elounda lasting 8-9 hours with flexible timing
• Visits Knossos Palace, Lasithi Plateau, and Kardiotissa Monastery
• Tour includes olive oil factory, traditional villages, and local dairy sampling
• Luxury air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi ensures comfort and connectivity
• Guided by Marinos, praised for his knowledge, friendliness, and personal touch
• Suitable for most travelers, with no major physical requirements noted

Exploring the Historical Site of Knossos Palace

The tour begins at the renowned Knossos Archaeological Site, the administrative and ceremonial center of the ancient Minoan civilization. Visitors have 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore the Palace of King Minos, famous for its complex layout and frescoes. Although admission costs 20 euros per person, the guided commentary helps bring the site’s history vividly to life, explaining its significance as the oldest city in Europe.

From the grand corridors to the vibrant murals, the guide highlights the importance of Knossos as a hub of ancient Crete. This stop offers a balanced mix of history and architecture, making it particularly appealing for history buffs and curious travelers alike. The Zeus Cave, or Diktaion Andron, is also included in the itinerary, believed to be the birthplace of Zeus, although it remains closed during maintenance.

Visiting the Olive Oil Factory at Omalia

After exploring Knossos, the tour moves along a scenic coastal road to the Omalia Olive Press, a traditional factory dedicated to producing olive oil, considered the “liquid gold” of Crete. Here, the focus is on learning about olive harvesting, pressing, and the benefits of Crete’s famous olive oil. Visitors receive insights into the beneficial properties of olive oil while sampling its excellent flavor.

The olive oil factory visit lasts about an hour and is entirely free to enter. This stop emphasizes local agriculture and food traditions, making it a favorite for food lovers and those interested in Cretan craftsmanship. The guide explains the process step-by-step, helping visitors appreciate the quality and health benefits of this staple product.

Lunch with a View at Restaurant Tzanakis Michael

A highlight of the tour is the chance to enjoy lunch at a traditional tavern overlooking the Lassithi Plateau. The hour-long stop at Restaurant Tzanakis Michael offers authentic local flavors, cooked in a wood-fired oven. Although lunch is not included, the menu features regional specialties, giving travelers a taste of Cretan cuisine in a picturesque setting.

The restaurant’s location provides breathtaking views of the plateau and Dikti Mountains, adding to the leisurely experience. This stop allows for rest and socializing, and the relaxed atmosphere encourages a genuine connection with the local environment and culture.

Discovering the Lasithi Plateau’s Windmills and Agriculture

Next, the tour visits the Lasithi Plateau, the largest in Crete. The area is famous for its historic windmills, with approximately 13,000 windmills once in operation. While most are no longer active, the landscape remains dotted with these iconic structures. The two-hour visit explores the fertile plain surrounded by Dikti Mountains, showcasing its agricultural significance.

Aside from its natural beauty, the plateau once hosted the world’s largest wind farm post-1950s. The visit offers photo opportunities and a chance to understand the agricultural lifestyle of local villagers. Visitors learn about the traditional use of wind energy and see how the plateau’s environment supports farming.

Visiting Krasi Village and the Ancient Plane Tree

Driving through mountainous terrain, the tour stops at Krasi, a village known for its ancient plane tree, one of the oldest in the world. Here, travelers can admire the lush landscape, take memorable photos in the paved square, and taste local raki beside natural springs. This 30-minute stop emphasizes local traditions and nature.

The visit also includes passing the Kardiotissa Monastery in a green area of Northern Dikti, adding a spiritual and historic aspect to the journey. The monastery, while not detailed in terms of access, offers insight into religious life in Crete and its monastic heritage.

Exploring Mochos Village

The tour concludes in Mochos, a charming village where visitors can mingle with locals at village cafes and experience everyday Cretan life. The 1 hour and 30 minutes spent here provide opportunities to sample local snacks, browse shops, or simply enjoy the village atmosphere.

This stop encapsulates the spirit of Crete, combining heritage, tradition, and hospitality. It’s a fitting way to wind down after a day of sightseeing, offering authentic interaction outside the typical tourist routes.

Logistics: Comfort and Convenience

Traveling in a luxury air-conditioned minivan with Wi-Fi, the tour ensures a comfortable and connected journey through some of Crete’s most scenic and historic sites. The private nature of the tour means no crowds, and the guide, Marinos, is praised consistently for his knowledge, friendliness, and personalized approach.

The tour includes bottled water and coffee, making it easy to stay refreshed. Pickup is offered, and the tour operates most days, with full flexibility on timing at each stop, ensuring a relaxed pace suited to individual preferences.

The Strengths of This Crete Tour

What truly sets this tour apart is the personalized attention from Marinos, whose reputation for being knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging shines through in reviews. Travelers appreciate the authentic experiences, such as tasting local dairy products and picking herbs, which add a hands-on element rarely found in larger group tours.

The private format guarantees flexibility, allowing visitors to customize their experience, spend more time at favored sites, or skip less appealing stops. The well-planned itinerary balances history, culture, nature, and culinary delights, making it suitable for a wide range of interests.

Potential Considerations

While the tour offers excellent value and comfort, it does involve some driving across mountainous terrain. Travelers should be comfortable with long hours on the road, although the pace and stops are designed to be manageable. The Zeus Cave is closed during maintenance, so this part of the itinerary is skipped, which may be a minor disappointment for some.

The tour requires pre-booking well in advance, typically booked 142 days ahead, reflecting its popularity. The admission fee for Knossos is not included and costs 20 euros per person, which travelers should budget for separately.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is perfect for those who enjoy history, local culture, and scenic landscapes in a private, relaxed setting. It suits travelers looking for a comprehensive day trip that combines archaeological sites, agriculture, and village life, all led by a knowledgeable local guide. It’s especially appealing for those who appreciate authentic experiences and want the convenience of luxury transport and personalized service.

Final Thoughts on the Knossos & Lasithi Plateau Experience

This tour provides a well-rounded exploration of eastern Crete’s highlights, emphasizing cultural richness and natural beauty. The private guide, luxury vehicle, and authentic stops make it a compelling choice for travelers seeking a personalized, insightful adventure.

While it involves some cost and planning—notably the admission fee for Knossos—the quality of guidance and variety of sites justify the expense. It’s best suited for those who want a comprehensive, flexible day without the hassle of large groups or rigid schedules. Travelers who value local insights and authenticity will find this tour especially rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with no specific physical demands noted. However, some walking and outdoor exposure are involved at sites like Knossos and villages.

What should I bring on the tour?
It’s recommended to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat for outdoor stops. The vehicle provides bottled water and coffee.

How much does the Knossos admission cost?
The admission fee is 20 euros per person, paid separately from the tour price.

Can I customize the stops or timing?
The tour is private, offering flexibility in timing and stops, allowing guides to tailor the experience as much as possible.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but a traditional tavern is available for those wishing to dine with scenic views.

What if the Zeus Cave is closed?
The Zeus Cave remains closed during maintenance, and the tour adjusts accordingly, focusing on other highlights.