Cave Of Zeus

Overview

Embark on a captivating journey that begins in the cosmopolitan town of Agios Nikolaos and leads to the traditional village of Kritsa, rich in history, myths, and Byzantine charm. Wander through its picturesque alleys and visit an olive oil factory where you’ll enjoy a guided tour, learn about the production process, and taste local olive varieties. Continue through the serene landscapes of holm oaks and the ancient Cypress Forest of Minos as we ascend to the Katharo Plateau at 1250m, a place of natural beauty and home to fossils of the extinct Cretan dwarf hippopotamus. Next, explore the breathtaking Lassithi Plateau, said to be the birthplace of Zeus, once home to over 10,000 windmills and one of Europe’s earliest wind farms. Discover the region’s ancient pottery traditions by crafting your own clay creation to take home. Our final stop is the peaceful village of Krasi, where we admire the monumental 2,400-year-old plane tree beloved by Cretan author Nikos Kazantzakis.

Itinerary

1. Kritsa

   The traditional village of Kritsa, a historic village rich in legends, gorges, archeological and religious monuments and monuments.

   1 hour
2. Katharo Plataeu

   The Lower Plateau (altitude 1250m), a plateau famous for the Cretan dwarf hippopotamus fossils found in the area. The plateau has a wonderful landscape surrounded by many legends and stories dating back to the Ottoman era.

   1 hour
3. Windmills Of Lasithi Plateau

   Lassithi Plateau (altitude 1150m). More than 10,000 traditional windmills operated in the area until a few decades ago. In the 1950s and 1960s, the Plateau was actually one of the first wind farms in Europe. The Diktaio Cave, that is, the birthplace of Zeus, is located in the village of Psychro (altitude 840m).

   2 hours · Admission not included
4. Krasi

   As we descend, we make a short stop in the village of Krasi and photograph the favorite plane of the famous Cretan writer Nikos Kazantzakis. The perimeter of the plane tree is about 24 meters and is estimated to be 2400 years old. It is also said that each measure of its perimeter corresponds to the age of 100 years.

   30 minutes

Good to know

• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.