Crete: Lasithi Plateau & Ceramic Workshop

Exploring Crete’s Lasithi Plateau and the nearby traditional village of Psychro offers a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. This 8-hour tour, offered by ETHERION, takes you through some of the island’s quieter, more authentic spots, including a monastery run by nuns, a renowned ceramics workshop, and sweeping mountain vistas. The tour costs around a moderate price, with included transportation and guides in multiple languages, making it accessible for most travelers.

What really makes this trip appealing are the stunning panoramic views of the mountains and the chance to see a handmade ceramics tradition in action. You’ll also enjoy a peaceful walk through the quaint streets of Psychro and a taste of local life away from the tourist crowds. However, the main drawback might be the long bus rides, especially if you’re sensitive to sitting for extended periods. Still, for those seeking an authentic taste of Crete’s rural charm, this tour offers good value and memorable sights.

This experience is well-suited for travelers who appreciate cultural insights, scenic landscapes, and local traditions. If you love authentic villages, historic monasteries, and natural beauty, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding. It’s especially fitting if you want a manageable day trip that combines sightseeing with some downtime in beautiful settings.

Key Points

• Authentic sights like Kera Monastery and Psychro Village
• Stunning mountain views from the Lasithi Plateau
• Focus on local crafts with a traditional ceramics workshop
• Comfortable transportation with air-conditioned buses
• Guided experience in multiple languages
• Limited walking but enough to enjoy scenic spots
• Moderate cost with optional extras for entry fees
• Long travel times mean comfort and patience are helpful

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with pick-up options at 17 different locations across the region, including popular spots like Heraklion, Malia, and Hersonissos. This variety is convenient, reducing the need for extra travel to the meeting point. Once on board, you’ll enjoy a relaxing 1.5-hour drive through Crete’s countryside, which gives you a first look at the island’s natural beauty.

The buses are described as luxurious and air-conditioned, making the long rides more bearable. Since the guide speaks multiple languages — including English, German, and French — you’ll likely get useful insights throughout the trip, with commentary on the scenery and history.

Kera Kardiotissa Monastery: A Spiritual and Artistic Treasure

The first stop is the Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, run by dedicated nuns. This religious site is famous for its icon of the Virgin Mary and impressive collection of paintings from the 1400s. Visiting this monastery not only offers a glimpse into Cretan religious life but also the chance to see centuries-old artwork and icons.

The reviews note that this stop is particularly memorable for the spiritual ambiance and the history embedded in its icons. The entry fee is minimal, around €2, making it accessible for most visitors. The quiet, contemplative atmosphere contrasts nicely with the other lively stops and offers a peaceful moment during the day.

The Lasithi Plateau: A Mountainous Sanctuary

The heart of the tour is the Lasithi Plateau, a lush, elevated plain surrounded by towering mountains. Here, you’ll see famous windmills, which are iconic symbols of the region. The scenery is described as breathtaking, with “stunning views of mountains and fertile fields” providing excellent photo opportunities.

This area is also famous for its productive farms and peaceful atmosphere. The landscape is dotted with charming towns and fields bursting with flowers and vegetables, revealing a side of Crete that many travelers miss. It’s a great spot to relax, breathe in the mountain air, and appreciate the quiet beauty of rural Crete.

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Psychro Village and the Ceramics Workshop

Next, you’ll visit Psychro, a quaint mountain village renowned for its handmade ceramics. The workshop is a highlight, especially for those interested in local crafts. Visitors can observe artisans at work, learn about traditional techniques, and even purchase unique souvenirs.

According to reviews, the ceramics workshop leaves a lasting impression. Walking through the streets of Psychro is lovely, with stunning mountain views, local taverns, and a chance to soak in the village’s authentic ambiance. Many travelers enjoy this stop for its combination of craftsmanship and scenic charm.

Final Stop and Scenic City Views

The last stop is a hilltop town offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can unwind, enjoy a local meal or a refreshing drink, and take in the panoramic scenery. It’s a fitting end to a day filled with natural beauty and cultural discovery.

Practical Details and Tips

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes professional guides in multiple languages, luxurious transportation, and free pick-up service from key locations. All necessary liability insurance is covered too. However, entry fees to the Cave of Zeus (€6) and Kera Monastery (€2) are not included, so budget accordingly if you plan to visit these sites.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the tour is priced to offer a good balance of value, considering the transportation, guide services, and multiple stops. With optional entry fees, the overall expenses are manageable, especially if you’re interested in authentic cultural and scenic experiences without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What to Bring

Comfort is key — wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen, especially if visiting in warmer months. The tour’s scenic spots are outdoors, so being well-prepared enhances the experience.

Timing and Group Size

Starting times vary based on your pickup location, so be sure to check your email after booking. Groups tend to be moderate-sized, which means enough interaction with guides but still a feeling of intimacy and space.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

The reviews are mixed but provide useful insights. Some appreciated the stunning views, noting that the scenery alone makes the trip worthwhile. One reviewer pointed out that “the views from the mountain stops are breathtaking”, emphasizing the natural beauty of the region.

However, the overall rating of 3.1 out of 5 suggests some travelers found the experience less than perfect. Common complaints include long bus rides and some disappointment with the pace or sightseeing options. One reviewer mentioned, “The stops were nice, but I felt a bit rushed”, highlighting the need for patience during the day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for those who love scenic drives, cultural visits, and authentic village life. It’s a good choice if you want to see Crete’s mountain landscapes and rural traditions without the hassle of organizing transport or guides yourself. It’s also suitable for moderate walkers who are comfortable with some time spent outdoors and in small towns.

If you’re after a more in-depth historical or archaeological experience, you might find this tour a bit shallow, as it focuses more on natural beauty and local crafts than extensive site visits. Travelers seeking luxury or very short tours may want to explore other options.

The Sum Up

This Crete tour combines breathtaking mountain scenery, spiritual and cultural insights, and the chance to observe traditional crafts in a peaceful setting. It offers good value for travelers who enjoy authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, especially if you’re keen on mountain vistas and rural life.

The stops at Kera Monastery and the ceramics workshop are notable highlights, providing meaningful glimpses into local traditions. The scenery on the Lasithi Plateau truly impresses, making it a memorable part of your Crete journey.

However, be prepared for long bus rides and some busy moments in transit. If you’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and appreciate natural landscapes paired with cultural stops, this tour offers a well-rounded, gentle introduction to Crete’s remote beauty and traditions.

FAQ

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with starting times depending on your pickup location.

What sites will we visit during the tour?
You’ll visit Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, the Lasithi Plateau, Psychro Village with its ceramics workshop, and a scenic hilltop town.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to the Cave of Zeus (€6) and Kera Monastery (€2) are not included.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses air-conditioned, luxurious buses for all transfers.

Do I need to book early?
It’s recommended to reserve in advance, especially since you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and lightweight clothing are advised.

Can I join from anywhere in Crete?
Pick-up is available from 17 different locations, including Heraklion, Malia, and Hersonissos, making it convenient for most travelers.

How many people typically join?
While group size isn’t specified, the large pick-up options suggest a popular group with enough space for everyone.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the relatively relaxed pace and scenic stops make it suitable for families with older children who enjoy nature and cultural sites.

You can check availability for your dates here: