Semi-Private Psiloritis The mountain of Gods & Cooking Lesson

About this tour

Discover the Heart of Crete in Premium Style
Embark on a semi-private (group), luxury tour across the majestic landscapes of Crete — designed for discerning travelers who value authenticity, comfort, and exclusivity.

Journey to the Mythical Mountain of Psiloritis
According to Greek mythology, Mount Psiloritis is where Zeus was raised by the Kourites and the nymph Amalthea. Today, this awe-inspiring mountain is part of a UNESCO Global Geopark, celebrated for its rare geological formations, ancient fossils, impressive gorges, and endemic flora and fauna that have shaped Cretan culture for millennia.

Itinerary Highlights
Your adventure begins in the greater Heraklion area — exact pickup point depends on your accommodation. After meeting your expert guide and a short tour briefing, we set off toward the Livadi Plateau, ascending the eastern slopes of Psiloritis via a scenic mountain road with breathtaking views over Heraklion and the Cretan Sea.

Our first stop is the popular monastery of Ag.Irini located in Krousonas village. We’ll pass through the charming village of Krousonas and follow an off-road trail parallel to the impressive Krousonas Gorge, eventually reaching the fertile Livadi Plateau, a peaceful landscape dotted with thousands of pear and apple trees. In spring, the area bursts into bloom — a truly magical sight. Our route continues to the Nida Plateau, home to the Idaion Andron cave, where mythology says Zeus was raised. Alternatively we visit the Sfentoni Cave, known as the most impressive organized cave in Crete, known for its stalagmites and stalactites.

We then head to Anogia, a village known for its rich musical and resistance history, where we pause for a traditional coffee (kafenion experience). From there, we pass through the village of Axos, where you’ll have free time to explore either a charming woodcraft museum or a weaving workshop inside a traditional weaver’s shop, depending on availability and your preference.

Our final stop is Livadia and the Psiloritis Chalet Retreat, where you’ll enjoy an exclusive, hands-on cooking experience — preparing traditional Cretan cheeses and local delicacies alongside experienced village cooks.

We return to Heraklion via the scenic provincial road through Anogia, bringing your day of myth, flavor, and mountain adventure to a luxurious close.