Safari:Lasithi plateau, Mythology park,olive oil tasting

Experience the Magic of Crete with the Lasithi Plateau, Mythology Park, and Olive Oil Tasting Tour

If you’re looking for a way to truly connect with Crete’s culture, scenery, and history, this 7-hour guided excursion offers a well-rounded taste of everything that makes the island special. We haven’t done it ourselves, but the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a memorable journey for those eager to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

What makes this tour stand out? It’s the chance to walk through traditional villages, see the legendary Zeus Cave, and indulge in authentic Cretan food and wine—all in one day. Plus, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll get insights that transform sightseeing into storytelling. Just keep in mind that this tour involves quite a bit of driving and outdoor activity, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full day on the move.

One potential drawback? The tour isn’t suitable for everyone—those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or very young children might find the pace or some activities challenging. Still, if you’re someone who loves exploring scenic mountain landscapes, tasting local produce, and learning about mythology, this experience will resonate deeply.

This tour feels perfect for curious travelers wanting an authentic, interactive day in Crete that balances culture, nature, and fun. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or someone seeking stunning views, you’ll find plenty to love.

Good To Know

• Authentic Crete: Visit traditional villages where shepherds still work and old churches whisper stories of the past.
• Spectacular Scenery: Pass through gorges and climb up to over a thousand meters for panoramic views.
• Cultural & Tasting Experiences: Olive oil, wine, and raki tastings offer a delicious insight into local traditions.
• Mythology Connection: Discover the Zeus Cave and visit one of Greece’s oldest trees, adding a legendary element.
• Active & Guided: A mix of off-road driving, walking, and sightseeing ensures a dynamic day with expert commentary.
• All-Inclusive Value: For $97, you get transportation, meals, tastings, and multiple stops—making it a great value.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting the Journey: Pickup and First Village Visits

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your chosen location in Crete, ensuring a smooth start. Your guide—who, based on reviews, is both knowledgeable and engaging—sets the tone for the day. The first stops are traditional villages like Mochos and Krasi, where you’ll get a glimpse of everyday rural life. These villages are perfect for wandering narrow streets, admiring old stone houses, and snapping photos of scenic views. Emilie’s review emphasizes how Joseph, the guide, shared loads of interesting trivia, making these stops both charming and educational.

Scenic Drives and Gorges

Next, you’ll pass through dramatic gorges and along mountain roads, climbing to over a thousand meters. This part of the journey offers some of the best views on the island. Traveling in a sturdy 4×4 or SUV, you’ll appreciate the comfort and the ability to access off-road paths. The drive itself is a highlight, giving you a taste of Crete’s rugged beauty. Eddie mentions how much fun they had with Joseph, especially enjoying the “exceptional views” during these scenic passages.

The Lasithi Plateau: A Cultural & Tasting Hub

Arriving at the Lasithi Plateau, the heart of the tour, you’ll experience a mix of shopping, wine tasting, and workshops. This fertile highland area is not only stunning but also historically significant, known for its windmills and lush landscapes. The guided wine and olive oil tastings are often the highlight for guests, offering a taste of Crete’s agricultural bounty. As Emilie praised, the food was “delicious and plentiful,” and the wine selection was highly appreciated.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Zeus Cave and the Ancient Tree

You’ll visit the legendary Zeus Cave, a site steeped in myth and history. It’s a fantastic photo opportunity and an opportunity to learn about the mythological significance of Zeus’s birthplace. Nearby, you’ll see a 2000-year-old plane tree, one of Greece’s oldest trees, adding a touch of ancient wonder to your day. These sites are both educational and visually captivating, helping you connect with Crete’s legendary past.

Traditional Cretan Lunch & Tastings

No trip to Crete is complete without sampling its cuisine. The included traditional Cretan lunch is often a hearty affair, featuring local specialties that reflect the island’s rich culinary traditions. You’ll also have the chance to drink Cretan wine and raki, providing a true taste of local hospitality. The reviews highlight how guests found the food “delicious” and the wine “really good value.”

Visiting Sfendyli Village and Free Time

Later in the day, a visit to Sfendyli Village allows for more exploration and photos. The group then enjoys free time to soak in the atmosphere or pick up souvenirs like crafts or local products. Emilie notes that the guide’s commentary made these stops especially engaging, adding to the overall value of the experience.

Return Journey

The day wraps up with a comfortable drive back to your starting point, filled with new memories and a deeper appreciation for Crete’s beauty, mythology, and traditions.

Practical Aspects and Value

Transportation & Group Size

Traveling in a well-maintained SUV or 4×4, you’ll appreciate the comfort and the ability to access off-road areas. The group size ensures a balance between a social atmosphere and personalized attention, with the guide able to answer questions and tailor commentary.

Duration & Flexibility

The tour lasts about 7 hours, with starting times that you can check for availability. It’s designed to be a full but manageable day, giving you time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Cost & Inclusions

At $97 per person, the price includes transportation, lunch, wine and water tastings, and petrol. This makes it a good deal when you consider the number of sites visited and the variety of experiences. Note that entrance fees and personal expenses are not included, so it’s wise to bring some cash for souvenirs or additional visits.

Accessibility & Considerations

While the tour is wheelchair accessible and offers pickup, it’s not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues due to the outdoor nature and walking involved. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, sun protection, and bring a camera to capture the stunning vistas.

Authentic Experiences & Guest Feedback

Guests frequently mention the high quality of guides—particularly Joseph—whose enthusiasm and knowledge made the experience stand out. Emilie highlights how he shared “interesting information and trivia” that brought the sites to life. The beauty of the views and the quality of tastings also receive praise. Eddie enthusiastically recommends the tour as “great fun” and “really good value for money,” emphasizing the overall positive vibe.

The reviews reinforce that this tour offers more than just sightseeing; it provides a lively, engaging introduction to Crete’s culture, mythology, and landscape.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This excursion suits travelers who love a mix of outdoor adventure, culture, and delicious food. It’s ideal for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing, walking, and some off-road driving. History buffs, foodies, and couples or groups eager to explore Crete’s legendary sites will find this tour particularly rewarding.

However, since it involves some physical activity and outdoor elements, it’s less suitable for those with mobility impairments or very young children. The tour’s balance of storytelling, scenic views, and tasting experiences makes it a compelling choice for curious travelers eager to deepen their understanding of Crete.

FAQ

Is transportation provided for the entire tour?
Yes, you’ll be picked up in a 4×4 or SUV and transported throughout the day, with transfers included in the price.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, with starting times you can check when booking.

Are meals and tastings included?
Yes, the price covers a traditional Cretan lunch, wine and water tastings, and olive oil samples.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It’s wheelchair accessible, but due to outdoor walking and uneven paths, it might not be ideal for everyone with mobility challenges.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Are there any items I should bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, sunglasses, a camera, and some cash for personal expenses or souvenirs are recommended.

To sum it up, this Crete tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and delicious tastings, all led by knowledgeable guides who bring the island’s stories to life. It’s a fantastic way to experience the essence of Crete in a single day—whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply someone eager to explore new landscapes. For those looking for good value and a comprehensive adventure, this trip ticks all the boxes.

You can check if your dates are available here: