The most common way to reach Katharo Plateau is by car from Agios Nikolaos, typically via Kritsa. The drive offers stunning views as you ascend. Some visitors mention the road can be challenging, so a sturdy vehicle is recommended.

Yes, cycling to Katharo Plateau is a popular activity for road cyclists, described as one of the biggest climbs in East Crete. The road from Kritsa is noted for being new asphalt with no traffic, offering amazing panoramic views.

While a regular car can reach the plateau, a strong, high car is advised, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main areas. Some parts might be difficult to reach with a standard vehicle.

Public transport options to Katharo Plateau are very limited or non-existent. It is primarily accessible by private car or motorcycle.

The road from Kritsa to Katharo Plateau has been described as having brand new asphalt, making for a smooth ride with no traffic. However, the ascent is significant, and the terrain can be challenging in parts.

There is no entrance fee to visit Katharo Plateau itself, as it is a natural landscape. You only pay for any food or drinks you consume at the tavernas.

Katharo Plateau is a natural area and is accessible at all times. However, the tavernas on the plateau will have their own operating hours, typically open during daylight and early evening.

No advance booking is required for general access to Katharo Plateau. If you plan to have a meal at Stereos Taverna, it's advisable to check their availability, especially during peak season.

Yes, guided tours are available and recommended for experiencing the real Cretan culture and understanding the natural history of the plateau. Some groups like INCO organize such outings.

Many visitors enjoy exploring the plateau on foot, with well-made tracks suitable for walking. Cycling is also a popular option for the adventurous.

Expect a landscape of flower-strewn orchards and wild, windswept hills. In spring, the plateau is covered in beautiful wildflowers. You might also spot goats and birds of prey.

Yes, there are easy walking paths and tracks on the plateau. The northern route is a branch of the E4 pan-Cretan walk, offering longer hiking possibilities.

Recently, bones from pygmy hippos and elephants have been discovered here, hinting at its ancient past. The cave on the way up also offers a glimpse into geological formations.

The easy walking tracks and the opportunity to see goats can make it enjoyable for families. However, the journey requires a sturdy vehicle, and supervision is needed around natural terrain.

The plateau offers significantly cooler temperatures, often 7-10°C lower than the coast, making it a pleasant escape during warmer months.

The main dining option is Stereos Taverna, a family-run establishment known for serving great food. It's a popular spot for visitors to refuel after exploring.

Stereos Taverna offers authentic Cretan cuisine. Visitors have praised their late lunches and the overall quality of the food.

There are very few places to buy food on the plateau, so it's advisable to bring your own water and snacks if you plan to explore extensively.

Yes, you can have a picnic on Katharo Plateau. It's a beautiful natural setting for enjoying your own food, especially if you plan to hike or explore for an extended period.

Enjoying a meal at Stereos Taverna is a great way to experience local Cretan culture and hospitality. Some events, like the Feast of the Transfiguration, also involve traditional food and music.

The plateau offers stunning panoramic views of the mountains and valleys, especially during sunrise and sunset. The wildflowers in spring also provide vibrant subjects.

You might spot goats roaming freely, which can make for interesting photos. Vultures are also present, but capturing them might require patience and a good zoom lens.

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The golden hour can be particularly magical.

The entire plateau offers scenic vistas. The drive up provides numerous pull-off points for capturing the expansive mountain scenery.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. If you're interested in wildlife, a telephoto lens would be beneficial. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions.