Crete : Cooking Lessons In Lasithi Plateau

Our review explores a unique way to experience Crete beyond the usual sightseeing—by learning to cook traditional dishes in the stunning landscape of the Lasithi Plateau. This tour, offered by PLATANOS TOURS, promises not just a culinary lesson but a chance to connect with the island’s rich food culture and picturesque surroundings. Whether you’re a foodie eager to bring home new recipes or a curious traveler wanting a taste of local life, this experience might just be the highlight of your Crete trip.

What we love about this tour is how it combines outdoor cooking in a traditional setting with visits to historic and scenic spots. The opportunity to source ingredients directly from local gardens and milk goats makes it genuinely hands-on. Plus, the chance to taste freshly prepared dishes paired with local raki or Greek coffee is a real bonus.

That said, the tour has its considerations. It’s a full day—around 8 hours—and involves some travel, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with longer excursions. Also, because it’s outdoors and involves active participation, it might not be ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a more relaxed, sit-down culinary experience.

This experience appeals most to food lovers, cultural explorers, and anyone wanting an authentic taste of Crete’s rural traditions. If you enjoy learning new skills while soaking up scenic views, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Authentic Cooking: Learn to prepare traditional Cretan dishes like Dakos, Dolmadakia, Tzatziki, and Mizithropitakia with local chefs.
• Cultural Connection: Experience the farm-to-table concept firsthand by sourcing ingredients and milking goats.
• Scenic Setting: The outdoor cooking takes place in Tzermiado village with views of the Lasithi Plateau.
• Historic Highlights: Visit the peaceful Kera Monastery with beautiful frescoes and architecture.
• Local Cuisine & Drinks: Enjoy Greek coffee and locally produced raki during your cooking session.
• Flexible & Convenient: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, with a full itinerary that balances sightseeing and culinary fun.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting the Day: Kera Monastery

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Kera Monastery, a peaceful spot rich with frescoes and serene surroundings. This half-hour stop offers a quiet moment before the day’s more lively activities. It’s a gentle introduction to the area’s cultural roots, and the scenery along the drive is captivating, with scenic views and rural charm. It’s a good chance to snap some photos and get a sense of the tranquil environment that defines this part of Crete.

Sourcing Ingredients in Kaminaki

Next, you’ll head to the village of Kaminaki, where the focus shifts to sourcing fresh ingredients. Here, you’ll see how Cretan cuisine is rooted in local produce—vegetables grown in nearby gardens and herbs that add flavor to every dish. The highlight? You’ll get to milk goats, connecting you with the pastoral traditions that have sustained Cretan communities for generations.

Multiple reviews mention how this part of the tour offers an authentic farm-to-table experience. One reviewer remarked, “It was incredible to pick fresh herbs and see how local families live and work.” This direct contact with local farmers and goat herders adds depth to the culinary experience, making it more than just a cooking class.

Tzermiado: The Heart of the Cooking Experience

The second major stop is the charming Tzermiado, where the outdoor taverna becomes your classroom. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Lasithi Plateau, this is where the hands-on cooking begins. Under the guidance of local chefs, you’ll learn to make classic Cretan dishes like Dakos (a tomato-and-cheese salad served on barley rusk), Dolmadakia (vine leaves stuffed with rice and herbs), Tzatziki (yogurt, garlic, cucumber dip), and Mizithropitakia (cheese-filled pies).

Participants often comment on how approachable and friendly the chefs are, making the learning experience enjoyable rather than intimidating. You’ll savor your creations with a glass of raki or Greek coffee, which enhances the authentic atmosphere. The outdoor setting feels very ‘local,’ and many reviewers mention how the fresh air and scenic surroundings elevate the cooking process.

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Free Time and Local Exploration

After the cooking lesson, you’ll have a few hours to explore Tzermiado. It’s a small village with quaint shops, cafes, and local markets. Some travelers choose to enjoy a meal at a nearby taverna, where every ingredient is sourced from the surrounding farms—delighting foodies who appreciate genuine, local flavors.

Scenic Return to Heraklion

The day concludes with a scenic drive back to Heraklion, passing through lush landscapes and charming villages. It’s a good time to reflect on the day’s experiences and appreciate the natural beauty of Crete’s interior.

Is It Worth the Price?

At around $42.91 per person, this experience offers remarkable value, especially considering it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, the cooking lesson, and local drinks. The hands-on nature, coupled with visits to historic sites and scenic landscapes, makes it a comprehensive cultural package.

While the price covers most essentials, note that there’s a small fee for Kera Monastery entrance (€2), which is a minor additional cost. The tour’s duration—about 8 hours—may seem long, but it’s well-paced, with breaks and free time included.

What Travelers Say

Reviews highlight the stunning views and the delicious food as major highlights. One guest mentioned, “The dishes we learned to cook were simple but packed with flavor—definitely a highlight of our trip.” Others appreciated the friendly guides and the chance to sample local wines and spirits.

Practical Details: What You Should Know

• Timing: The tour starts at various times; check availability for your preferred schedule.
• Transport: The experience includes air-conditioned bus transportation, making the long drive comfortable.
• Group Size: Usually small to medium groups, ensuring personalized attention.
• Physical Considerations: The tour involves outdoor activity and some walking; not suitable for wheelchair users.
• Booking & Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers flexibility, and you can reserve now with pay later options.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food lovers seeking an authentic cooking class in a scenic rural setting. It’s suited for those interested in local traditions, fresh ingredients, and hands-on participation. If you’re looking for a relaxed day with culture, this is a great fit.

However, if your mobility is limited or you prefer a more leisurely, less active experience, consider whether the outdoor activities and travel fit your needs.

Final Thoughts

This Cretan cookery tour on the Lasithi Plateau is a wonderful way to combine culinary education with culture and scenic beauty. You’ll leave with new recipes, a deeper understanding of Cretan food traditions, and memories of a stunning landscape. The opportunity to source ingredients directly from local gardens and milk goats creates a genuine, meaningful connection to the region.

The experience offers excellent value, especially for travelers eager to bring home authentic flavors and stories. The relaxed outdoor setting, friendly guides, and delicious dishes make this a memorable addition to any Crete itinerary.

If you’re a curious traveler who appreciates good food and local culture, this tour deserves a spot on your list.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included in the package, covering multiple locations such as Malia, Heraklion, and others, making it convenient for most travelers.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, with the main activities including visits to Kera Monastery, sourcing ingredients, and the outdoor cooking lesson.

What dishes will I learn to cook?
You’ll learn to prepare classic Cretan dishes like Dakos, Dolmadakia, Tzatziki, and Mizithropitakia.

Is the tour suitable for children or infants?
Infants must sit with their parents on the bus and won’t have their own seats, so it’s best suited for older children who can participate in the activities.

Are there any extra costs?
Aside from the entry fee for Kera Monastery (€2), there are no hidden charges. The tour includes most activities and local drinks.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable clothing for outdoor cooking and walking around the village. Sunscreen and a hat are recommended for the outdoor portions.

To sum it up, this tour offers a beautifully balanced mix of culinary adventure, cultural insight, and scenic beauty. It’s a perfect pick for curious travelers wanting a meaningful, hands-on experience that authentically showcases Crete’s food and rural traditions. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual explorer, you’ll find plenty to love here.

You can check availability for your dates here: