Plateau of Lassithi, Monastery of Kera and Ceramics

<h3 id="section-0">Discovering the Plateau of Lassithi, Kera Monastery, and Ceramics: A Practical Guide

If you’re considering a guided tour to explore some of Crete’s less-trodden highlights, the Plateau of Lassithi, Kera Monastery, and ceramics tour might catch your eye. While it doesn’t promise a deep dive into Crete’s ancient past or the most iconic sights like Knossos, it offers a well-rounded look at some beautiful natural landscapes and local craftsmanship.

What we like about this tour are the stunning views of the Lassithi Plateau, which has a quiet, expansive feel that’s a refreshing change from busier tourist spots, and the opportunity to see a traditional pottery workshop—a glimpse into local arts that’s quite authentic.

However, a key consideration is the price point—at around $36, it’s quite affordable, but it also means some parts, like the monastery, aren’t included in the ticket price, so you might want to budget extra.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy scenic countryside, are curious about local crafts, and prefer a full-day guided adventure that includes comfortable transport and insights from a knowledgeable guide. It’s not the most adrenaline-pumping or historically comprehensive tour, but it’s a solid choice for those wanting to soak in the peaceful beauty of Crete’s countryside at an accessible price.

Key Points

• Affordable price point makes this a good option for budget-conscious travelers.
• Includes a pottery workshop, offering insight into local craftsmanship.
• Stunning views of the Lassithi Plateau and a chance to see the remaining windmills.
• A flexible pickup service from many areas around Heraklion makes logistics easier.
• Some sites, like the monastery, require additional fees and are not included in the ticket.
• Ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives, cultural stops, and local crafts without a hectic schedule.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Really Get

This full-day tour offers a balance of natural beauty, cultural history, and hands-on craft experience. We’ll walk through what each stop is like and what you can expect, plus some honest takes based on reviews.

Kera Kardiotissa Monastery

Your day begins with a visit to Panagia Kera Monastery, a site that’s historically significant in Crete. It’s an important religious spot that played a role during the Cretan Revolt, and it’s marked by its resilience—having suffered damage but still standing as a piece of local history.

Since admission isn’t included, you might want to bring some cash if you plan to explore inside. The vibe here is peaceful and reflective, and it offers a taste of monastic life combined with historical importance. The guide will likely share some stories, making the visit more engaging.

A review highlights that the monastery “played a major role during the revolt,” which adds context, but keep in mind that the 45-minute stop might not give you a lot of time if you’re eager to explore inside or take photos.

The Lassithi Plateau

Next up is the Lassithi Plateau, a vast, open space famous for its windmills—once numbering around 10,000. Though today only a few remain, the area still gives off a sense of expansive serenity. The views here are especially captivating, with rolling hills and distant mountains.

The highlight for many is visiting a pottery workshop. You’ll get to see skilled artisans at work, creating traditional ceramic pieces. It’s a real peek into local craftsmanship, and the workshop’s included admission means you can observe without additional costs.

One traveler described it as “a non-stop reward outside the cave,” emphasizing the stunning outlook and the craftsmanship showcase. It’s a chance to pick up a handmade souvenir or simply appreciate the local talent.

Dictean Cave – Birthplace of Zeus?

Although not explicitly included in the detailed itinerary, the tour mentions exploring Dictean Cave, believed to be the birthplace of Zeus. If this part is included, you can expect a walk into a cavern that’s both impressive and atmospheric. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes because, as reviews suggest, the cave can be a rewarding but physically engaging experience if you’re up for it.

Optional Lunch at Termiado

While not included in the standard price, an optional lunch menu is available, typically offering Greek classics like pork or chicken with potatoes, Greek salad, and a glass of wine or a non-alcoholic drink. It can be a nice way to relax after the morning’s sightseeing, although it adds to your overall cost.

The Windmills – A Once-Extensive Landmark

The fact that the entire plateau was once dotted with 10,000 windmills is a fascinating tidbit. Today, only a handful remain, but the story of these ancient mills provides insight into how people adapted to harness the wind’s power.

Travelers might find the remaining windmills a picture-perfect spot for photos, as one review notes, “the views outside the cave are nonstop,” which includes the windmill remnants in the landscape.

What to Expect from the Transportation

Travel is in an air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, which makes for a comfortable ride, especially on a full-day tour. The group size caps at 46, so it’s generally a manageable and social experience, but not overly crowded. Pickup is available from many parts of north Crete, which is a big plus for ease of access.

Timing and Pacing

The tour lasts about eight hours, which is pretty standard for full-day excursions. The stops are generally 30 to 45 minutes long, giving enough time to see the major sights without feeling rushed. Reviewers appreciate the live guide, who shared interesting stories in both English and German, adding extra value to the experience.

Cost and Value

At just over $36 per person, this tour is quite budget-friendly. You’re paying mainly for transportation, the guide, and the pottery workshop, with some extras like lunch or additional site admissions being optional. Travelers generally find good value for what’s included, especially considering the scenic vistas and local insights.

Honest Thoughts from Travelers

A couple of reviews give this tour glowing praise. One traveler called it a “wonderful tour with exceptional customer service,” highlighting a positive experience and friendly guide. Another appreciated how the guide shared engaging stories in multiple languages, making it accessible for all.

On the flip side, some note that the monastery visit is somewhat brief and incurs extra costs if you want to explore inside, so manage expectations accordingly. Also, because the tour covers a fair amount of ground, it’s not suited for those who prefer a more relaxed pace or detailed exploration of each site.

The Final Verdict

This guided tour offers a respectful glimpse into Crete’s natural landscapes and local craftsmanship. With affordable pricing, comfortable transport, and a friendly guide, it’s an accessible way to experience the Lassithi Plateau and surrounding highlights without spending a fortune.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, cultural stops, and craft demonstrations and don’t mind a packed schedule. If you’re after a quick but scenic and culturally enriching outing, this tour ticks those boxes. However, if you’re seeking an in-depth historical tour or want to visit major archeological sites like Knossos, you might want to look elsewhere.

In terms of value, it’s a worthwhile choice, especially if your goal is to relax, enjoy panoramic views, and learn about local traditions. Just remember to keep extra cash handy for site admissions and optional meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes a ride in an air-conditioned vehicle, with many pickup options from different parts of north Crete.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, giving ample time to visit each stop and enjoy the scenery.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is optional and not included in the standard price. You can choose to add a menu featuring Greek favorites.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended, as most travelers book about 19 days ahead, to secure their spot on this popular tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility.

Is this suitable for families or children?
While the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, some stops like the cave involve walking and physical activity. Keep this in mind if traveling with young children.

All in all, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenic views, cultural insights, and authentic craftsmanship—ideal for those wanting a relaxed yet engaging day exploring Crete’s countryside.