We took the opportunity of Kathari Deftera (national holiday), that gave us the possibility of three days out of work. We decided to visit, for the second time the beautiful island of Crete. The most important reason for our decision on this destination was the invitation that we had from our two friends, Aris and Ada!
This trip had it all: except from the beautiful landscapes, routes, splendid food enjoyments and plenty of raki, we had also the entry of the new member in our club... Aris with BMW GS1100R, but also Ada!!! Welcome friends!!!
First ride of the island was in the wider region of Lasithi and more specifically in the plateau of Lassithi. One of a few areas we had not visited, when we made the first trip in Crete, in August 2003. Thus, therefore, Saturday (12/03) we began with destination the plateau.
In this trip two girls joined us as co-riders, Ada and Agapi, who gave another color in our old gang….of course, we never forget Ploumisti! We left from Gouves, where was our base, and just before Malia, we turned right on the traffic lights. First stop at the monastery of Kardiotissa. A small and likeable monastery, with amazing view, little after we reached the first stone windmills. We took some pictures and continue for Plateau...
Passing the first stone, half-crumbling windmills and the plateau of Lassithi lies before us. It was a surprise to realize that, no windmill exists there!!! Aris told us that the photograph that constituted the "barker" in order to visit the region and portrayed the plateau full with windmills was taken 40 years ago!!!! Unfortunately, all the windmills had been replaced by machines... As soon as we reached the plateau, we turned right and stopped at the Monastery of Vidiani, to smoke a cigarette and to see the church. The lack of windmills constituted the main subject of our discussion.
We decided to make the round of plateau and to stop at the village Psychro, where the cave of Dikteon Andron is found. According to Greek mythology mentions, that is the cave where Jupiter born. We were unlucky...it was closed. Therefore, if you wish to visit Dikteon Andron, it is better to do it during the summer season, when it is open daily. One of our “sources” said that the cave is splendid and gives you awe and fear...
From the point we stopped, we enjoyed the amazing view, which we also photographed. En continuity, we followed the road for Neapoli, so that we reach the national road and continue to Agios Nikolaos for a coffee. The road up to Neapoli was very good. Enough turns, but easy to drive. Narrow road again, but relatively good surface.
As soon as we reached Agios Nikolaos, we directed ourselves to the old port, in order to seat for a coffee. I believe that Agios Nikolaos is one of the most traditional and places. However, at the same time the development of tourism is not so obvious, as it happens with the major cities of Crete. We sat at the cafeteria "Aegean", it is found precisely next to the bridge of the port.
The time had passed and already our stomachs begun to play the ninth symphony of Beethoven!!! Aris knew a cozy taverna at Kokkini Hani, a few kilometers close to Heraklion. We took the road back and really deserved our patience since the food was amazing!!!
Life is a book and those who do not travel, read only one page
