Crete: Road-trip to Lasithi Plateau & Olive Mill Farm

Traveling through Crete’s scenic landscapes can be a highlight of any visit, and this guided day trip to the Lasithi Plateau and Olive Mill Farm offers a solid mix of nature, history, and local crafts. With a focus on authentic experiences and stunning views, this tour scores a commendable 4.4 out of 5 based on over 400 reviews.

What makes this experience attractive? We love the way it covers diverse highlights—from the ancient monasteries and traditional villages to a fascinating olive oil production site. The knowledgeable guides, the chance to taste local products, and the scenic mountain drives really stand out.

A possible drawback? Since meals are not included, you’ll want to budget extra for lunch, which some find a bit pricey. Also, the walk up Zeus Cave and some stops can involve steep climbs, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on uneven terrain.

Who is this tour best for? If you enjoy a mix of cultural exploration, breathtaking landscapes, and local culinary insights, this trip is ideal. It’s especially suited for curious travelers wanting an authentic taste of Crete beyond the usual tourist spots.

Good To Know

• Authentic Crete: Experience local villages, monasteries, and traditional olive oil production.
• Diverse Highlights: Includes eco parks, ancient sites, and a scenic mountain journey.
• Informative Guides: Guides like Soula and others bring history and local stories to life.
• Value for Money: For $39.52, you get a full day of varied sights, with optional meals at extra cost.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned bus with experienced drivers handling mountain roads confidently.
• Reviews Speak Volumes: Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This tour is designed to give travelers a taste of Crete’s countryside, history, and artisan traditions, all within approximately 7.5 to 10.5 hours. Starting with an early hotel pickup (you’ll get a detailed email with your exact time and location), the journey begins with a visit to Vidiani Monastery, a peaceful spot dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Here, you’ll enjoy about 25 minutes of quiet reflection amid traditional architecture, with some reviews noting the monastery has a lively service that visitors can observe quietly.

Next, your route takes you to Lasinthos Eco Park, a favorite for those interested in rural crafts. For about an hour, you can explore workshops like pottery and candle-making, and see a small animal farm that showcases Crete’s agricultural roots. Reviewers frequently mention the park’s free admission as a bonus, and many enjoy how genuine and hands-on this stop feels. One traveler appreciated the insights into traditional crafts, noting it offered a “nice glimpse into local life.”

From here, you’ll head to Krasi village, famous for its freshwater springs and an ancient plane tree estimated to be over 2,400 years old. The stone-paved streets, traditional tavernas, and historic churches make this stop feel like a step back in time. With about 30 minutes here, you’ll get a real sense of rural Cretan life, as noted by visitors who found the village charming and authentic.

The highlight for many is the Olive Mill Farm—a scenic spot where you can observe traditional olive oil, soap, and honey production. The backdrop of the Aegean Sea and surrounding mountains makes this stop particularly picturesque. Visitors can learn about age-old methods of production and, if they choose, enjoy a local meal prepared from fresh ingredients (not included in the ticket price). Many reviews highlight the quality of the olive oil tasting and the opportunity to see how this essential part of Cretan culture is made.

Aside from these, the tour includes a 25-minute drive to Vidiani Monastery and a full hour at Lasinthos Eco Park. The entire experience balances sightseeing with opportunities to learn, snap great photos, and enjoy local flavors.

Transport and Group Experience

Travel is in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus driven by an experienced professional. The reviews frequently mention the driver’s skill on narrow mountain roads and tight turns, which can be a relief for those wary of mountain driving. Group sizes are not specified, but the positive comments about guides like Soula and Tania suggest a personal, friendly atmosphere.

The Scenic Drive

The journey through the Lasithi Plateau is especially memorable for its breathtaking mountain views and rural charm. Travelers often mention how the drive itself is a highlight, with stops for pictures and to soak in the serenity of Crete’s highlands. The guide’s commentary about the landscape, local history, and cultural tidbits makes the drive engaging rather than just a commute.

Guide Expertise

Guides like Soula and Tania earn praise for their friendliness, humor, and knowledge. They’re described as engaging storytellers who make the history and traditions of Crete come alive. The flexibility to customize the experience—such as swapping the Knossos Palace visit on the day—is a major plus, as mentioned by travelers who enjoyed the additional historical insights.

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Meal Options and Extra Costs

The tour does not include lunch, but at the Olive Mill Farm, guests can purchase a traditional meal made from fresh local ingredients. Several reviews mention this as a highlight, with some noting it’s worth budgeting extra for. The Olive Mill Farm stop lasts about two hours, giving plenty of time to relax and enjoy the setting.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a very balanced mix of scenic drives, cultural insights, and authentic experiences for a reasonable price. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to see a variety of Crete’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple separate visits. The guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor turn this into a memorable day.

The main value lies in the diversity of stops—villages, eco parks, monasteries, and olive farms—and the opportunity to learn about Crete’s traditional crafts and history firsthand. It’s not just sightseeing; it’s a chance to connect with local life and natural beauty.

However, keep in mind that some parts involve steep walks or climbs, and meals are extra. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace or are on a tight schedule, the long duration might be a consideration.

In all, this excursion is best for curious, active travelers eager to explore Crete’s countryside, learn about its agricultural traditions, and enjoy stunning mountain vistas. It’s a full day of discoveries that balances fun, education, and scenic beauty.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
Expect approximately 7.5 to 10.5 hours, depending on your pickup location and traffic conditions.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation in an air-conditioned bus, a professional driver, a tour guide, and liability insurance coverage are included. Meals are not included but can be purchased at the Olive Mill Farm.

Are there any optional extras?
Yes, you can choose to buy lunch at the Olive Mill Farm, and some sites may require an entrance fee, such as Zeus Cave or Knossos Palace, if you opt to visit.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes. Reviewers mention the bus is air-conditioned and handled mountain roads expertly, making the drive as pleasant as the stops.

Can I customize the itinerary?
You have the option to include or exclude certain stops like Knossos Palace, depending on your preference.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and suitable clothing are recommended, especially for walking and the hikes involved.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, but be aware of the walking involved and the steep climb to Zeus Cave. Donkeys are available for the ascent, but they are not always suitable for everyone.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
Yes, the tour is offered in English, French, and German, with guides capable of switching between languages.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees?
Some sites may have additional costs, such as Zeus Cave or Knossos Palace, which are not included in the base price.

This guided day trip to Crete’s Lasithi Plateau and Olive Mill Farm offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s natural beauty, ancient traditions, and local crafts. If you’re after a day filled with scenic drives, cultural stops, and authentic experiences, this tour delivers good value and plenty of memorable moments.

You can check if your dates are available here: