The perfect way to explore the central region of the island with a visit to two picturesque plateaus. Learn about fascinating mythology and local life in Crete.

Your first stop is Kritsa which is a traditional lower mountain village where you get to have a little walk to see the local craft shops and you have time for refreshments. Move onwards to a magnificent viewpoint of Mirabello Bay, which follows the views of the north and south coast of the island.

Your journey takes you to the plateau of Katharo, passing through the biggest forest on the island, where the roads are non-existent and the mountains reach a height of 1,500 metres. There will be a refreshment stop at a local kafenion somewhere in this wilderness!

Continue through the dirt tracks and the goat valley, where your next stop gives you the opportunity to take photographs from an incredible angle over the Lassithi Plateau. 

Tuck into a delicious BBQ lunch, with unlimited wine (vegetarian option is available). Your next stop is the birthplace of the father of all Gods, Zeus’s Cave. Here, there is a 6 EUR entrance fee (not included) and walking shoes are recommended.

Discover Lassithi plateau, where time stands still and the local people are mainly farmers. Reach the village of Krassi, which is famous for its 2,000-year-old tree and a natural spring water source. Heading back, you will pass through the area of Selinari where you may be lucky enough to see vultures, which are now an endangered species.

Practical Information:

A modern, angular edifice in the heart of Agios Nikolaos, Santa Marina Unique Hotel 4* features various amenities and services as well as recently renovated guest rooms for a first-class stay in one of Crete's most popular resort towns. 

Just a short walk from the Blue Flag awarded Ammos Beach and the town centre with its numerous attractions, Santa Marina Unique Hotel 4* is the perfect setting for those wishing to experience the island of Crete.

Decorated with elegance and simplicity, you will appreciate the blend of design and convenience for ultimate comfort during your trip. Enjoy the view of the surrounding gardens for a refreshing start to your day. 

This offer is based on a Half Board stay (breakfast and evening meal served in the main restaurant - excludes drinks). 

Please note, not all hotel food and beverage outlets may be applicable to your Half Board basis and may be available at selected times only.

Experience the weather and sun Crete is famous for, by laying out on one of the sun loungers in the courtyard before cooling off in the pool. For those who'd prefer to stay inside, unwind with a book in the reading room, or play a game of billiards in the game area.

To further experience the island of Crete, do the Katharo Route Land Rover Tour (included for VP guests), and see the beauty and sights of central Crete while learning about the area's culture.

Aghios Nikolaos is the capital of the Lasithi province, built on the western side of the Gulf of Mirabello around the famous Lake Voulismeni. According to the colourful Greek Myth, the goddesses Athena and Artemis bathed in this beautiful bottomless lake!

The town is a cosmopolitan tourist resort which has maintained, to a great extent, its traditional feel, especially around the lake. It's a wonderful spot, which offers everything from shopping, tavernas and, restaurants, to traditional Greek culture, with a number of archaeological museums and sites nearby. Special sites include the sunken ancient city of Olounda, parts of which can be seen underwater. 

Visit several beautiful and undiscovered coves and beaches, an aquarium, water park, and golf course all at under a 30-minute distance! The chapel of Aghios Nikolaos lies on port's peninsula. This is where small boats set off to visit the UNESCO protected islet of Spinalonga. The town is also connected to the Cyclades (Melos), Cassos, Carpathos, Cos, Rhodes and the port of Piraeus.