Crete: Explore Lassithi Plateau, Myths & Cretan Cuisine

This experience made our article of The Top 8 Krasi Crete Tours.

Crete: Explore Lassithi Plateau, Myths & Cretan Cuisine

This 8-hour Jeep safari tour offers a fantastic look at Crete’s rugged interior, combining breathtaking landscapes, ancient legends, and delicious local food. Starting from your hotel, you’ll venture into some of the island’s most iconic sites—like the sunken village of Sfendili, the mythical birthplace of Zeus inside Dikteon Cave, and the Lasithi Plateau with its windmills and panoramic views. The guide, often described as knowledgeable and friendly, makes the journey lively and informative.

What really charms us are two things: First, the way the tour balances off-road adventure with plenty of opportunities to admire Crete’s natural beauty and historical sites. Second, the chance to sample a traditional Cretan meal at a mountain tavern, which feels like a genuine peek into local life. The only potential drawback? Since the day involves some driving over rough terrain and walking through caves, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of physical activity. This tour suits travelers who love nature, mythology, and authentic culinary experiences, and who want to see Crete beyond the usual tourist spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic landscapes: Off-road routes through mountain villages and gorges reveal Crete’s untouched beauty.
• Historical highlights: Visits to Sfendili sunken village, Kardiotissa Monastery, and Dikteon Cave.
• Wildlife spotting: Look out for goats, vultures, and eagles in their mountain habitat.
• Cultural insight: Enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch with local wine and seasonal fruits.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable drivers provide fascinating stories and local tips.
• Flexible options: Available for private or small groups, with hotel pickup and drop-off.

A Journey Through Crete’s Hidden Corners

We loved the way this tour combines both adventure and storytelling. Starting with a hotel pickup, the journey begins with a drive toward the Aposelemis Dam, where we stopped for stunning photos of the water and mountains. The dam’s photo stop sets the tone for a day of contrasts: serene waters, rugged cliffs, and ancient myths.

Next, we head to Sfendili, a sunken village partially submerged by the dam’s waters—an eerie but fascinating site. The landscape here is striking: old stone structures poking out of the water, creating a scene straight out of mythology or a movie set. Some reviews mention how well the guide explained the history, making this stop both educational and visually captivating.

Then we follow a rough but scenic off-road trail alongside Embasa Gorge. The ride is bumpy but rewarding—think of it as a small taste of Crete’s wild side. We passed by the Kardiotissa Monastery, perched against the mountains, which provides a quiet moment and a good photo opportunity.

From here, we visit Krasi Village, famous for its 2,000-year-old plane tree and traditional stone spring. The peaceful atmosphere here offers a glimpse into local life, and the tree’s age makes it a true marvel. As one review notes, it’s a place where “history and nature intertwine.”

The drive continues through charming mountain villages—Avdou, Gonie, Aski, Kastamonitsa—each with their own character, and all offering fresh mountain air and scenic views. The guide’s commentary about local traditions and farming adds depth to the experience.

We then ascend into the mountains, reaching about 1,100 meters above sea level. Here, the landscape opens up to spectacular panoramas of the Lasithi Plateau, dotted with windmills and surrounded by mythic tales. Keep an eye out for wild goats, vultures, and eagles soaring overhead. We often had the chance to stop and enjoy seasonal fruits and local beverages, which gave us a real taste of local life.

The highlight is the visit to Dikteon Cave, the legendary birthplace of Zeus. As you walk inside, you’ll imagine the mythology and history that have made this site famous for centuries. The cave’s interior is fascinating, but be prepared for a bit of walking and some uneven terrain.

After exploring the cave, we returned to the plateau for more scenic views and a traditional Cretan lunch at a family-run tavern. The meal—local wine, fresh bread, and seasonal produce—felt authentic and plentiful, perfect for soaking up the mountain air and stories.

The final stops include windmills at Psichro and a quick look at Mochos, a picturesque village, before heading back to your hotel. The whole day was packed with beauty, myth, and local flavor—a well-balanced mix for curious travelers.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At approximately 8 hours, the tour packs in diverse experiences that would be difficult to replicate on your own. The included hotel pickup and drop-off save hassle, and the experienced English-speaking driver ensures you get both entertainment and insight. The traditional lunch with local wine adds to the value, making this far more than just a sightseeing drive.

While the entrance fee to Zeus Cave isn’t included, the overall experience offers a solid sense of authentic Crete, with plenty of opportunities for photo stops and learning about local legends. Many travelers find the combination of scenic landscapes, cultural stops, and off-road fun worth the cost.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers who don’t mind a few bumps along the way, nature lovers interested in the island’s wildlife and landscapes, and history buffs eager to see mythological sites like Zeus’s birthplace. If you’re looking for a family-friendly, small-group tour that offers both education and fun, this is a solid pick. Just be prepared for some walking and uneven paths—it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or recent surgeries.

More Great Tours Nearby

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, with specific start times available based on your booking.

What is included in the price?
Pickup and drop-off from your hotel, a 7-seater off-road Jeep, an experienced driver, seasonal fruits or snacks, and a traditional Cretan lunch with local wine and water.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the entrance fee to Zeus Cave isn’t included. Ticket prices vary depending on nationality and age, with EU citizens paying €6 and free entry for students.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
The tour involves some walking and rough terrain, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a bit of physical activity. Those with heart problems or recent surgeries should consider this carefully.

What about the off-road parts?
The ride over rugged mountain trails is part of the fun, providing scenic views and a taste of Crete’s wild side. Expect some bumpiness, but it’s well worth it for the scenery and adventure.

Will I see wildlife?
Yes, if you’re lucky, you’ll spot wild goats, soaring vultures, and eagles in their natural mountain habitat.

What’s the food like?
The lunch served at a mountain tavern features local specialties, with plenty of fresh ingredients, traditional bread, and local wine, offering an authentic taste of Crete.

What if Zeus Cave is closed?
The guide will suggest alternative nearby sites or villages, ensuring you still enjoy a full day of discovery.

Final Thoughts

This Crete Jeep tour offers a well-rounded experience of the island’s mythology, landscapes, and local culture. It’s perfect for those seeking a balanced mix of adventure, history, and food. The guides’ knowledge, combined with the spectacular scenery and authentic meal, makes it a memorable daily escape from the more touristic spots.

Whether you’re a nature lover, mythology enthusiast, or curious traveler, this tour provides a window into Crete’s wild beauty and ancient stories. It’s particularly suited to travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy and authentic experiences over cookie-cutter sightseeing.

Enjoy the rugged side of Crete, and come away with stories of wild goats, legendary caves, and windmills that still spin stories of the past.

You can check availability for your dates here: