5 Hours
Private Tour
English
Up to 19 Guests
Zeus Cave, Krasi Village & Olive Oil Tasting Private Tour
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Zeus Cave, Krasi Village & Olive Oil Tasting Private tour
- Zeus Cave
- Traditional Windmills
- Krasi Village
- Old Olive Tree
- Megali Vrisi (Great Fountain)
- Olive Mill Farm Experience
Itinerary
Set off on an extraordinary journey through Crete’s enchanting landscapes, where ancient mythology, deep-rooted history, and unspoiled nature intertwine to create a truly unforgettable experience. From the sacred birthplace of Zeus to the breathtaking highlands of Lassithi Plateau, the traditional charm of Krasi village, and the rich agricultural heritage of an Olive Mill Farm, this immersive tour offers a perfect blend of legend, culture, and scenic beauty.
Your adventure begins with a visit to the legendary Zeus Cave, also known as the Dikteon Cave, a site of immense mythological and historical significance. According to Greek mythology, this majestic underground sanctuary is where Rhea, the mother of Zeus, hid her newborn son to protect him from his father, Cronus. As you step inside, a sense of mystery and awe fills the air.
The cave’s towering stalactites and stalagmites, naturally sculpted over millennia, create an otherworldly atmosphere. Dimly lit chambers, hidden recesses, and the echo of dripping water add to the mystical charm of this sacred space. With every step, you’ll feel the presence of ancient myths that shaped the history and culture of Crete. Whether you are drawn by the mythological importance or simply admire its raw geological beauty, this site is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Leaving Zeus Cave behind, your journey ascends to the spectacular Lassithi Plateau, a fertile oasis surrounded by the rugged peaks of the Dikti Mountains. This serene and picturesque highland stretches across the heart of Crete, offering stunning panoramic views of rolling green fields, traditional farms, and orchards bursting with fruit and olive trees.
As you traverse the plateau, you’ll come across the iconic white-sailed windmills, remnants of a time when they played a vital role in irrigating the land and supporting local agriculture. Their aged wooden structures, standing proudly against the open sky, tell a story of Crete’s past and the resilience of its people. Here, time seems to slow down, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquility and natural splendor of this unique landscape.
The plateau is also home to small, traditional villages, each offering a glimpse into Crete’s authentic rural life. Keep an eye out for charming local tavernas, where you can taste freshly prepared Cretan delicacies, made from locally sourced ingredients such as cheese, honey, and handmade bread.
Next, you’ll visit the picturesque mountain village of Krasi, a place where history, nature, and tradition blend effortlessly. Nestled in the foothills of the Dikti Mountains, Krasi is known for its timeless charm and deep-rooted traditions. The heart of the village is its charming square, shaded by three majestic plane trees that stand as ancient guardians of the village.
Among them, the 2,400-year-old plane tree is a sight to behold. One of Europe’s oldest trees, its massive, sprawling branches provide a cool and serene canopy, inviting you to pause and admire its extraordinary presence. This ancient natural monument has witnessed the passing of centuries, standing as a silent storyteller of the village’s history.
Nearby, the “Megali Vrisi” fountain, a historic stone water source, has been flowing with crystal-clear spring water for centuries. The pure and refreshing water, drawn directly from underground springs, is a symbol of nature’s generosity and Crete’s commitment to preserving its heritage. As you wander through the narrow, cobbled streets, admire the traditional stone houses and absorb the warm hospitality of the locals, who are always eager to share stories of their village’s history and traditions.
To complete your journey, you’ll visit a traditional Olive Mill Farm, where you’ll delve into the secrets of Crete’s most treasured export – olive oil. Olive trees have been cultivated on the island for thousands of years, and today, Crete is home to some of the finest olive oil in the world.
At the farm, you’ll witness the time-honored process of extracting olive oil, from harvesting the olives to cold-pressing the golden liquid. Learn about the different varieties of olives, the techniques used in production, and the many health benefits of extra virgin olive oil, an essential ingredient in the Mediterranean diet.
In addition to olive oil, the farm also produces handmade olive soap, crafted using traditional methods and infused with natural ingredients for nourishing skincare. You’ll also have the opportunity to taste locally produced honey-based delicacies, made with wild thyme honey, known for its exceptional flavor and medicinal properties.
As you explore the farm, let the aromatic scents of fresh olives and wild herbs fill the air while you take in stunning views of the Aegean Sea. This peaceful and immersive experience is the perfect way to connect with Crete’s agricultural roots and appreciate the passion and dedication behind its world-renowned products.
Inclusions - Exclusions
Private Tours are personal and flexible just for you and your party.
Inclusions:
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Professional Drivers with Deep knowledge of history [Not licensed to accompany you in any site]
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Hotel pickup and drop-off
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Transport by private vehicle
- Bottled water
Exclusions:
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Cave Entrance Fee [8€ per person]
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Licensed Tour guide upon request depending on availability [Additional cost]
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Food & Drinks
History
Zeus Cave:
Hidden within the rugged cliffs of Mount Dikti, Zeus Cave, also known as Dikteon Cave, is a place steeped in legend and history. According to Greek mythology, this mystical cavern is where Rhea, the mother of Zeus, hid her infant son to protect him from Cronus, who devoured his children to prevent them from overthrowing him. With the help of sacred bees, the goat Amalthea, and the Curetes (a group of warriors who masked his cries by clashing their weapons), Zeus survived and later became the ruler of Mount Olympus.
Beyond mythology, the cave has archaeological significance, with evidence of worship dating back to Minoan times (3000–1100 BCE). Excavations have uncovered numerous artifacts, including bronze figurines, pottery, and offerings, indicating that the cave was a major Minoan religious sanctuary. Its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, along with the cavernous halls, create an awe-inspiring atmosphere, making it a must-visit site for those intrigued by history and mythology.
Lassithi Plateau:
Nestled 850 meters above sea level, the Lassithi Plateau is a fertile haven in the heart of Crete, surrounded by the towering Dikti Mountains. This plateau has been cultivated since the Minoan era, making it one of the oldest continuously farmed regions in Europe. The unique microclimate and abundant underground water sources have allowed the land to flourish with olive groves, fruit orchards, and vegetable fields.
During the Venetian rule (13th–17th century), Lassithi became an important agricultural center, and to irrigate the fields, the Venetians constructed over 10,000 windmills equipped with white-cloth sails. These iconic windmills of Lassithi, though now weathered by time, remain symbolic of Crete’s rural heritage. They stand as a testament to the ingenuity of past civilizations, showcasing how Cretans harnessed the power of nature for sustenance.
In addition to its agricultural significance, Lassithi is home to numerous ancient monasteries and Byzantine churches, reflecting the region’s deep spiritual history. The plateau has remained a center of Cretan tradition and resistance, playing an important role in local uprisings against Ottoman rule.
Krasi Village:
Perched on the slopes of Mount Selena, the picturesque village of Krasi is a living monument to Crete’s history, traditions, and nature. Its defining feature is the village square, where three monumental plane trees stand, their majestic canopies providing shade for generations of locals and travelers alike. Among them is a 2,400-year-old plane tree, one of the oldest in Europe, believed to have witnessed centuries of Cretan life and culture.
Krasi is also famous for its historic Vrises (water fountains), most notably “Megali Vrisi”, which consists of two ancient stone fountains that have provided fresh, potable spring water for centuries. These fountains not only served the local community but were also resting points for weary travelers and traders passing through the region.
The village has been a place of intellectual and artistic inspiration as well. The famous Greek writer and philosopher Nikos Kazantzakis, author of Zorba the Greek, spent time in Krasi, drawing inspiration from the village’s serene environment and deep connection to tradition. Today, Krasi remains untouched by mass tourism, offering a rare glimpse into authentic Cretan life.
Olive Mill Farm:
The journey concludes with a visit to a traditional Olive Mill Farm, where you will experience firsthand the production of Crete’s most treasured product – olive oil. Olive cultivation has been a cornerstone of Cretan life for over 5,000 years, dating back to the Minoan civilization, which considered olive oil a symbol of wealth, power, and divine blessing.
At the farm, learn about the ancient and modern methods of olive oil production, from handpicking the finest Koroneiki olives to cold pressing them to extract the purest extra virgin olive oil. Discover the importance of olive oil in Cretan cuisine, renowned for its health benefits and rich flavors.
In addition to olive oil, the farm produces handmade olive soap, crafted using natural ingredients that nourish the skin, as well as honey-based products sourced from wild Cretan flora. The aromas of fresh olives, herbs, and blooming flowers fill the air as you savor traditional flavors, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.
Cancellation Policy

All cancellations must be confirmed by Olive Sea Travel.
Regarding the Day Tours:
Cancellations up to 4 days before your service date are 100% refundable.
Cancellation Policy:
- Licensed Tour Guides and Hotels are external co-operators & they have their own cancellation policy.
- Apart from the above cancellation limits, NO refunds will be made. If though, you fail to make your appointment for reasons that are out of your hands, that would be, in connection with the operation of your airline or cruise ship or strikes, extreme weather conditions or mechanical failure, you will be refunded 100% of the paid amount.
- If your cancellation date is over TWO (2) months away from your reservation date, It has been known for third-party providers such as credit card companies, PayPal, etc. to charge a levy fee usually somewhere between 2-4%.
- Olive Sea Travel reserves the right to cancel your booking at any time, when reasons beyond our control arise, such as strikes, prevailing weather conditions, mechanical failures, etc. occur. In this unfortunate case, you shall be immediately notified via the email address you used when making your reservation and your payment WILL be refunded 100%.