Winter Solstice Wonders: Discover Knossos and Crete’s Hidden Gems
Experience the magic of the winter solstice in Knossos, where ancient history meets modern celebration. With cool, partly cloudy weather, it’s the perfect time to explore the grandeur of Knossos Palace and the lush Lassithi Plateau.
Embracing the Solstice at Knossos
As the winter solstice approaches, the ancient city of Knossos in Heraklion, Greece, becomes a beacon of history and culture, inviting travelers to explore its storied past. The weather, a cool embrace with temperatures ranging from 52.4°F to 62.7°F, sets the perfect backdrop for a day of exploration. The partly cloudy skies promise moments of sunshine, casting a golden hue over the ruins of the Knossos Palace, the ceremonial heart of the Minoan civilization.
Begin your journey with the Knossos and Local Delights Tour, available from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This tour offers a deep dive into the grandeur of Knossos Palace, where the echoes of ancient rituals still linger in the air. As you wander through the labyrinthine corridors, imagine the lives of those who once walked these paths, their stories etched into the very stones. The tour also takes you to the picturesque village of Krasi, where the ancient Platanus tree stands as a testament to the island’s enduring heritage. Here, you can savor a cup of coffee at a local taverna, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
“An Olive Oil expert and great guide/guy. - Our tour guide has been kind, and helpful. He knows about olives and olive oil so well. We enjoyed his sharing and learned quite a bit about how the olive oil was made and how to grade them. He knows the history of the area as well as things in the areas, including Knossos palace. A very good driver too to have manipulated the curvy and narrow mountain roads so well.” - Reviewed on 2024-12-01
The Allure of the Lassithi Plateau
The journey continues to the Lassithi Plateau, a fertile expanse surrounded by the imposing Dikti Mountains. The plateau, once home to the world’s largest wind farm, now offers a glimpse into Crete’s agricultural heart. The Luxury Lassithi Tour from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM provides an exclusive experience, whisking you away in a chauffeured vehicle to explore the plateau’s hidden gems.
As you traverse the landscape, the mild winds and partly cloudy skies create a dramatic backdrop, enhancing the raw beauty of the region. The tour includes a visit to the Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, a 14th-century Byzantine gem known for its stunning frescoes and the legendary miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary. Here, the air is thick with history, and the views are nothing short of breathtaking.
“Unforgettable experience - It was unforgettable experience. The sights were amazing. Tour operator emailed me the name and phone number of the tour guide. Tour guide was very knowledgeable in Greek history and mythology. The driver was very nice and experienced. They arrived on time wearing name tags. I would highly recommend this tour and this tour company.” - Reviewed on 2024-09-29
A Taste of Cretan Culture
No visit to Crete is complete without indulging in its rich culinary traditions. The tours offer a chance to savor authentic Cretan cuisine, from the finest olive oil to the island’s renowned honey and raki. As you dine in traditional tavernas, the flavors tell a story of the land and its people, a narrative that has been passed down through generations.
The Knossos and Local Delights Tour also includes a visit to the Omalia Olive Press, where you can learn the art of olive oil production. This experience is not just about tasting; it’s about understanding the passion and dedication that goes into every drop of this liquid gold.
“Small Group ‘See the Real Crete’ Tour - Our guide Marinos provided us with a wonderful day. Our small group beat the crowd to Knossos and took wonderful pictures without people and he gave us helpful tips about getting a guide. The olive oil factory tour was very informative and coincided with the first day of crushing olives for the season so we got to try first press olive oil crushed within the last day. We saw spectacular views and quaint villages around the Lastithi Plateau, ate at a restaurant with mountain goat views and good food. It was the highlight of our Heraklion stay.” - Reviewed on 2024-11-12
As the sun sets over Knossos, casting long shadows over the ancient ruins, the magic of the winter solstice envelops the city. It’s a time to reflect, to connect with the past, and to embrace the beauty of the present. In Knossos, the solstice is not just a date on the calendar; it’s a celebration of life, history, and the enduring spirit of Crete.
