Windmills of Lassithi Plateau Guide
Lassithi Plateau: A Landscape Dotted with Windmills Guide
The Lassithi Plateau, a fertile plain high in the Dikti Mountains, is renowned for its picturesque landscape dotted with windmills. While many are now defunct, these windmills once played a crucial role in irrigating the land, allowing for the cultivation of crops like potatoes, vegetables, and fruits. The sight of these windmills against the backdrop of the mountains is a quintessential Cretan image, offering a unique and charming experience for visitors. The windmills of Lassithi Plateau have a history dating back to the Venetian period. Initially, they were simple wooden structures, but over time, they evolved into the more robust stone windmills that are still visible today. These windmills harnessed the power of the wind to pump water from underground wells, enabling farmers to cultivate the land even during the dry summer months. While modern irrigation techniques have largely replaced the windmills, they remain a symbol of the ingenuity and resilience of the Cretan people. Exploring the Lassithi Plateau and admiring the windmills is a popular activity for tourists. You can drive or cycle through the plateau, stopping at various viewpoints to capture the scenic beauty. Many of the windmills are located along the main road that circles the plateau, making them easily accessible. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition directly tied to the windmills themselves, the Lassithi Plateau is known for its agricultural produce. Be sure to sample local specialties like potatoes, honey, and fresh vegetables at the tavernas and shops in the surrounding villages.
Transportation
The Lassithi Plateau is accessible by car or bus from Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos. Several bus routes serve the plateau, stopping at various villages. From Heraklion, you can take a bus to Agios Nikolaos and then transfer to a local bus that circles the plateau. Alternatively, you can rent a car in Heraklion or Agios Nikolaos and drive to the plateau. The roads are generally well-maintained, but be prepared for some winding mountain roads.