Lasithi Plateau🐐windmills

The Lasithi Plateau, sometimes spelt Lassithi Plateau is a large endorheic (inwardly-draining, not by the river to the sea) plateau in eastern Crete but its fame in the past century has been attributable to the huge forest of windmills, some 10,000 of them, erected (1910-1950) to assist with the irrigation of the shallow soil. Most of these mills have ceased to operate in recent decades, through inefficiency and lack of maintenance. 

It is the most significant group of windmills preserved on Crete. It occupies the northern entrance to the Lasithi plateau and is the landmark of the whole area. Today 24 windmills are preserved (out of the original 26), 7 of which extend to the south of the road that enters the plateau while the rest are built to the north of it. The group of windmills has been declared a work of art since 1986. The mills belong to individuals and some of them have been restored while others still remain half-ruined. 

The Lasithi Plateau is the largest plateau in Crete. A fertile inland plain at an elevation of 800 to 850m, bordered by the imposing Dikti Mountains, the plateau is home to more than a dozen villages (Tzermiado, Avrakontes, Aghios Georgios, and Psychro are some of the better known among them). It’s accessible from Malia and from Aghios Nikolaos, the route from the latter is full of twists turns and, as you drive higher, you can even feel the temperature drop.  It has a long history, including the myth that it is the birthplace of Zeus. 

Location of Lasithi plateau

Lasithi Plateau is located in the eastern part of Crete, Greece, nestled among the Dikti Mountains.

Things to Do in Lasithi Plateau

Explore Natural Beauty: Wander through lush meadows, olive groves, and orchards, and soak in the serene atmosphere of the plateau.

Visit Windmills: Discover the historic windmills scattered across the plateau, once used for irrigating the fertile land.

Experience Traditional Life: Explore traditional villages like Psychro and Tzermiado, where you can interact with locals and learn about their customs and way of life.

Discover Archeological Sites: Visit the Dikteon Cave, known in Greek mythology as the birthplace of Zeus, and explore ancient ruins in the surrounding area.

Enjoy Outdoor Activities: Hike along scenic trails, go horseback riding, or simply relax and take in the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

What Lasithi Plateau is Known For 

Lasithi Plateau is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, characterized by fertile plains, verdant landscapes, and panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains. It is also known for its traditional way of life, with picturesque villages preserving centuries-old customs and traditions.

Additionally, Lasithi Plateau holds historical significance, with archaeological sites like the Dikteon Cave offering insights into the region's ancient past and mythological connections.