Crete:Zeus & Lassithi Plateau, OliveTasting, Kritza, Pottery

Exploring Crete with this full-day adventure offers a wonderful mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and authentic local interactions. Hosted by Adventure-Crete, this tour packs in mountain vistas, mythological stories, and hands-on experiences in just seven hours.

What we love about this tour is its off-road mountain journey that reveals hidden villages, the chance to try pottery-making with local artisans, and sampling delicious Cretan cuisine in a family-run taverna. The tour’s small-group format (limited to six participants) makes it feel intimate and personalized, often leading to lively conversations and genuine connections.

One consideration is the duration and physical activity involved—the hike to Zeus’ Cave can be quite steep, so good shoes and water are essential. Also, the entrance fee for the cave (not included in the price) might be a minor extra for some travelers. This experience is perfect for those who enjoy a blend of scenic road trips, cultural activities, and active exploration.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic Crete experience beyond the typical tourist spots, especially if you love nature, mythology, and local crafts. It’s suited for active adventurers, curious culture buffs, and those wanting a personalized, well-organized day out.

Good To Know

• Authentic Small Group Journey: Limited to six participants, creating a friendly and flexible atmosphere.
• Stunning Mountain Scenery & Wildlife: Pass traditional villages, spot eagles and vultures on the plateau.
• Hands-On Cultural Activities: Try pottery with a local expert and learn about Greek mythology at the park.
• Delicious Cretan Cuisine: Enjoy a traditional meze lunch with local wine at a family-owned taverna.
• Valuable Insights & Personal Touch: Guides like Michael and Petra are praised for their knowledge, humor, and friendliness.
• Extra Experiences: Feed goats, visit the ancient plane tree, and explore the Selinari Monastery.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Pickup & Mountain Drive

The day begins with hotel pickups in a comfortable, air-conditioned Land Rover—look out for the distinctive orange Discovery. Depending on your location, you might be among 12 pickup options, including Elounda, Malia, or Heraklion (though Heraklion isn’t usually included). The small group setting means the ride is cozy rather than crowded, and the vehicle’s air conditioning makes mountain travel pleasant even on warm days.

As you wind into the Dikti Mountain Range, you’ll pass through charming villages with narrow streets, stone houses, and local cafes. Travelers mention that there’s ample opportunity for photos and quick breaks—some reviews talk about stopping for coffee in traditional tavernas, which adds a relaxed vibe to the trip.

Lassithi Plateau & Wildlife

The journey takes you to the famous Lassithi Plateau, a lush, expansive area famed for its windmills and panoramic views. You may see eagles and vultures nesting, as mentioned by visitors, adding a touch of wildness to the scene. The plateau’s height and open skies make it perfect for photographs and soaking in the breathtaking vistas.

Mount Spathi & Zeus’ Cave

Reaching the base of Mount Spathi, you’ll visit a local pottery workshop where you can try your hand at shaping clay under the supervision of an expert. Multiple reviews highlight how engaging and fun this activity is, especially when guided by knowledgeable locals. As one reviewer pointed out, it’s “great to learn about Greek history and myths” during this part of the trip.

Next, the highlight: Zeus’ Cave. The walk up involves a steep hike—about 20 minutes, according to most visitors—so sturdy footwear and water are advised. Some travelers found the hike challenging but worthwhile, with one noting, “it’s a challenge but well worth it for the views and inside the cave.” Note that the cave might be closed for renovations, but an alternative cave is often substituted, which has also received positive feedback.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Mythology & Cultural Insights

The Mythology Park provides a more relaxed environment to understand Greek legends, myths, and the significance of Zeus’ birthplace. Guides like Petra and Michael are frequently praised for their storytelling, making the cultural elements lively and engaging.

Authentic Cretan Lunch

Post-hike, you’ll settle into a traditional taverna for a meze lunch, which reviewers consistently describe as delicious and generous. Expect local specialties, fresh salads, and local wine or raki. One reviewer shared that the BBQ meat, slow-cooked over a wood fire for hours, was “totally delicious,” highlighting the quality of the food.

Descending & Final Stops

After lunch, the route continues around the plateau, offering views of the Aposelemis Dam and the north coast. Travelers love the chance to see Crete from above, with many capturing stunning photos of the rugged landscape. The visit to the 2400-year-old plane tree and Selinari Monastery adds historical depth to the tour, with visitors speaking about the peaceful ambiance and ancient significance.

Transportation & Group Size

The Land Rover is a key part of the experience, providing a rugged yet comfortable ride through mountainous terrain. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace, often leading to spontaneous conversations and shared stories.

The price of $111 per person is quite reasonable, considering the inclusion of hotel pickup, transportation, a guided experience, and lunch. Several reviews affirm that the value for money is excellent, especially when factoring in the variety and authenticity of activities included.

Additional Costs & Practical Tips

You should be prepared for a €6 entrance fee for adults to Zeus’ Cave. Entrance for children is free, so families might find this an affordable way to explore a key attraction. Comfortable shoes, water, and sun protection are recommended for the hike to the cave, which some reviewers describe as “steep” but “worth it.”

Guides & Customer Experience

From the glowing reviews, guides like Michael, Petra, and Ralf stand out for their knowledge, friendliness, and sense of humor. Many guests appreciated their efforts to show off hidden gems, explain Greek mythology clearly, and incorporate local stories that bring the landscape to life.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Crete’s natural beauty, mythology, and authentic villages—all in one day. If you enjoy scenic drives, cultural stories, and active exploration, you’ll find this trip worthwhile. The small-group format makes it ideal for travelers craving a more personalized experience, away from large crowds.

It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to see diverse sights without the hassle of planning and appreciate a good mix of activity, learning, and local flavors. The quality of the guides, combined with the variety of stops, makes this tour a memorable addition to any Crete itinerary.

However, if you prefer a very leisurely pace or have mobility concerns, the steep hike to Zeus’ Cave might be a consideration. Overall, for active travelers eager to explore Crete’s mythological and scenic highlights, this trip offers great value and authentic encounters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered from numerous locations including Elounda, Malia, and Hersonissos. Look for the orange Land Rover Discovery.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts approximately 7 hours, with starting times varying by availability. Please check the schedule for your preferred day.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential, especially for the hike to Zeus’ Cave. Sun protection and water are recommended due to the mountain sun exposure.

Are lunch and drinks included?
Yes, a traditional Cretan meze lunch with local wine is included. Refreshments and water are provided during the day.

Are there any extra costs?
The entrance fee to Zeus’ Cave is €6 for adults and not included in the tour price. Entrance for children is free.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can enjoy the experience, especially the pottery and animal feeding activities. The hike might be challenging for some, so plan accordingly.

Can I customize my experience?
The tour operates on a set itinerary with small group flexibility, but special requests should be directed to the provider in advance.

This tour combines the best of Crete’s natural landscapes, mythology, and authentic crafts, making it a richly rewarding day for curious travelers. Whether you’re into scenic drives, storytelling, or local food, it promises a genuine taste of the island.

You can check if your dates are available here: