The Majestic Omalos Plateau: A Landmark of Fame
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The Omalos Plateau in Crete occupies a truly magnificent location, nestled amidst the majestic peaks of the Lefka Ori (White Mountains). Spanning across 15 square kilometres, this circular expanse of land boasts breath-taking vistas. Intriguingly, geographers hypothesise that in ancient times, the Omalos Plateau may have been a lake, with its waters ultimately dissipating through the Tzanis cave.
How to get to Omalos
Ascending along the route, the village of Karanou unfolds on our right, accompanied by the awe-inspiring panoramic vista of the Keritis Valley stretching all the way to the Chania coastline. This captivating 15-kilometre journey treats us to untamed natural splendour, punctuated by two charming tavernas where one can indulge in coffee or delectable meals. The captivating allure of the scenery makes it difficult to bid farewell and retrace our path back to Omalos.
Continuing along the route, the enchantment persists as the untamed natural landscape evokes profound awe and admiration for the intricate handiwork of the All-Wise Creator, revealing the mesmerising beauty of Platanias Municipality's hinterland. Gradually, the road transitions from an uphill ascent to a gentle descent. Here, we reach the entrance point of the plateau, a location referred to by locals as ‘Neratzopora’ or ‘Neratzoporta’. Descending further, on the right-hand side, a narrow path beckons us towards the renowned cave known as ‘Tzanis’ Cave’. Stretching approximately 2.5 kilometres in length and boasting a vertical drop of 241 metres, this cave derived its name from the formidable chieftain Markos Tzanis, who instilled fear and terror in the hearts of the Turkish conquerors.
On the opposite side of the road, at the top of the hill dominates the chapel of Agios Panteleimonas as well as the Tower and the tomb of Hadji-Michalis Giannaris, the famous Revolutionary and Chieftain of the Cretan Revolutions who, thanks to his unyielding spirit and his struggles for the freedom of the homeland, was named ‘Demigod of Lefka Ori’ (Demigod of the White Mountains). Do sit outside the chapel and enjoy the view, the incredible tranquillity of the landscape and the incredible aromas conveyed by the cool breeze.
Descending once more to the main road, we continue our journey southward, now finding ourselves in the very heart of the plateau. Here, nestled beneath the towering poplar trees, we encounter welcoming and charming traditional tavernas. It is within these establishments that the true magic of Cretan cuisine unfolds. Words fail to capture the essence of the culinary delights awaiting us—indescribable and unforgettable flavours that serve as a true representation of the local Cretan cuisine, showcasing the purest of local ingredients and produce.
Within the fertile soil of the Omalos Plateau in Crete, the local inhabitants cultivate an array of vegetables and fruits. Particularly notable are the flourishing apple orchards, along with the cultivation of cereals and potatoes. These crops thrive in the unique conditions of the plateau, which offer cooler temperatures and higher altitudes compared to the surrounding lower areas with warmer climates.
Omalos is renowned for its 'mitata which are small traditional structures where the famous local cheese is produced using traditional and natural methods. Equally notable are the local 'madares’, high-rise buildings situated on the slopes of Lefka Ori (White Mountains). During the warm spring and summer days, shepherds guide their flocks of sheep and goats from their autumn and winter base on the Omalos Plateau to these madares. These structures serve as temporary shelters for the shepherds and their livestock as they graze and navigate the mountainous terrain.
Information Municipality of Platanias
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Silver Beach Hotel - Gerani
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It offers spacious rooms, apartments and family suites, designed to resemble a Cretan village and featuring all modern amenities. They offer stunning sea views and are ideal for families.
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Geraniotis Beach Hotel - Platanias
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It consists of 81 hotel rooms and 65 fully equipped apartments scattered around the blooming gardens. Swim in the deep blue waters of the beach, which is an important breeding ground for Caretta - Caretta sea turtles.
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Ideal Beach Hotel - Platanias
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Omega Platanias Hotel - Platanias
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