| Every Thursday from 7/4/2025 till 31/10/2025 |
| Total Duration 6-7 hours approximately / Starting time 07:00 – 09:20 am – Ending time 14:45 – 15:25 pm / Stay in Kera Monastery 30 minutes, stay in Psychro 30 minutes, stay in ceramics 20 minutes, stay in Tzermiado 1 hour and 15 minutes. |
| Pick-up & drop-off service from Ammoudara, Analipsi, Anissaras, Chersonissos, Gournes, Gouves, Heraklion city center, Karteros, Kokkini Hani, Malia, Stalis |
Our first stop is the historic monastery of Kera Kardiotissa, where nuns live and take care of the place. Here, you can see the famous icon of the Virgin Mary, which many believe is miraculous. The monastery also has beautiful frescoes and many other icons from the 14th century.
Next, we travel to the Lasithi Plateau, located 850 meters above sea level. It is surrounded by the Dikti Mountains and 18 small villages that still keep their old traditions. You will see the famous windmills and the Venetian ditches, which were built long ago to drain water from the land.
We then visit the village of Psychro, home to the famous Dicteon Cave*. Inside, you will find stunning rock formations called stalactites and stalagmites. According to legend, this is where the Greek god Zeus was born. Psychro is also known for its handmade pottery, and you will have the chance to visit a workshop and see how these beautiful ceramics are made.
Tzermiado, the main village of the plateau, is our last destination and it will impress you with its natural beauty, traditional houses, and breathtaking views. Here, you can take a break and enjoy a delicious lunch in a local tavern.
The Beauty of Lasithi Plateau
Then, we head to Lasithi Plateau. Nestled amidst the Dikti Mountains, the Lasithi Plateau stands as a unique Mediterranean region, characterized by its permanent inhabitants living at an altitude exceeding 800 meters. This enchanting locale invites visitors to experience its multifaceted beauty through scenic drives that meander through 18 quaint villages, each preserving an atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era.
The Lasithi Plateau is a haven for outdoor activities, offering nature walks that traverse its lush landscapes, dotted with remnants of iconic windmills and Venetian ditches. These trails provide not only a refreshing escape but also a chance to immerse oneself in the plateau’s rich biodiversity.
Discovering Dicteon Cave
Continuing our journey through the Lasithi Plateau, one cannot miss the opportunity to explore the legendary Dicteon Cave, reputedly the birthplace of the god Zeus. This remarkable site, steeped in mythical origins, offers an awe-inspiring experience for visitors dedicated to serving the curiosity and wonder of others.
Upon entering the cave, you are immediately greeted by stunning cave formations that have taken millennia to develop. The intricate stalactites wonders hanging from the ceiling, coupled with the stalagmites rising from the ground, form a breathtaking display of nature’s underground marvels. These formations not only captivate the eye but also stir the imagination, as one contemplates the myths that have been woven around this ancient grotto.
As you delve deeper into the cave, the sense of history is palpable. According to legend, the young Zeus was hidden here by his mother Rhea to protect him from his father Cronus. This connection to Greek mythology adds a layer of profound significance to the visit.
In addition to its natural beauty and mythological allure, the area around Dicteon Cave is known for its ceramic treasures. Local artisans continue the tradition of crafting exquisite ceramics, offering visitors a chance to take home a tangible piece of this storied region.
Please note that, if Dicteon cave is closed for maintenance, the visit will be removed from the program and the stay at other sites will be extended by approximately 15 minutes each.
Tzermiado: Tradition and Taste
Tzermiado, the capital of the villages on the Lasithi Plateau, captivates visitors with its blend of traditional architecture and delectable local cuisine. Nestled amidst the Dikti Mountains, this charming village offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences that serve as a window to Crete’s storied past. The timeless beauty of Tzermiado is evident in its stone-built houses and narrow, winding streets, which reflect the island’s architectural heritage.
A visit to Tzermiado is incomplete without indulging in its local cuisine. The village’s taverns and eateries offer an array of dishes that highlight the flavors of Crete.
Artisan workshops dot the village, where skilled craftsmen continue to practice traditional techniques. These workshops offer visitors the chance to observe the creation of intricate pottery, textiles, and other handmade goods, making for a deeply enriching cultural experience.
The scenic views surrounding Tzermiado add to its allure, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and tranquil ambiance of the Lasithi Plateau.
The Lassithi Plateau, with its rich cultural heritage and natural splendor, offers an unparalleled experience in Crete. Key landmarks such as the Kera Kardiotissa Monastery and the Dicteon Cave provide historical depth, while traditional villages like Tzermiado and Psychro showcase timeless architecture and artisanal craftsmanship.
This region, marked by its high-altitude villages and exceptional vistas, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy and beauty of Crete, making it an essential destination for travelers.
Cancellation policy:
For cancellation up to 2 days prior to arrival no cancellation fees
For cancellations 1 day prior to arrival 100% cancellation fees
Non-show 100% cancellation fees
Notes:
- For bookings 2 days before departure please contact us in order to check availability!
- Please provide fullname, telephone number (country code included), e-mail and accommodation details (hotel name & address) upon booking.
- Please arrive on time to the given pick-up point. Unfortunately, there is no option to wait for latecomers. In case of delay, missed pick-up, missed departure time, no refunds.
- The travel agency reserves the right to alter or cancel any tour due to adverse weather conditions or insufficient passengers number or force majeure 12 hours prior to departure time with a notification to the traveler.
Indicative Timetable
| 07:00 – 09:20 | Pick up |
| 09:45 | Arrival in Kera Monastery |
| 10:25 | Departure from Monastery |
| 10:45 | Arrival in Psychro – visit to the cave *** |
| 12:15 | Departure from Psychro – ceramics |
| 12:40 | Departure from Ceramics |
| 13:00 | Arrival in Tzermiado – time for lunch |
| 14:15 | Departure from Tzermiado |
| 14:45 – 15:25 | Arrival back in hotels – Drop off |
*** If Dicteon cave is closed for maintenance, the visit will be removed from the program and the stay at other sites will be extended by approximately 15 minutes each.
The timing of the program will be approximate, depending on traffic and weather conditions as well as the unexpected overcrowding.
