The cave of Dikteon or “Dikteo Andro” - as the locals refer to it - is among the most significant and known caves of Crete out of a total of 3.000 caves in Crete alone and the 8.500 caves across Greece. The impressive cave is indeed very rich in stalactites and stalagmites and in mythology it is said that it was the birth place of Olympian god Zeus and then onwards it was dedicated to him and constituted a truly famed cave in antiquity.

 

Pinpointing the wonderful cave on the map

The cave’s location is on the range of Mount Dikti in Eastern Crete and within the Lassithi plateau. In order to approach Dikteo Andro, one will have to go up to the plateau at close proximity to Neapoli, Malia, Stalida and Hersonissos. The cave is close to all of the places mentioned above but, nonetheless, the road leading there is steep and with multiple turns, meaning that you will need a minimum drive of 45 minutes to one hour up to Lassithi plateau and village Psichro, which will place you at an altitude of 1.025 meters and at the northern slopes of Mount Dikti, to be precise.

Inside Dikteon cave

Upon entrance to Dikteon cave you will almost immediately feel the difference in the temperature. It is due to those conditions that the cave is a significant habitat with a rich fauna, ranging from wild pigeons and a variety of other bird species, to numerous arthropods and the Mediterranean Ear Bat.

At the outer hall of Dikteo Andro and near the entrance, is where the foundations of a fitted altar were found and where the pilgrims would deposit their offerings, such as oil, honey, wine, cereals, sacrificed animals etc. Further towards the interior of the caves, we find 5 more chambers which range in size. The most impressive part of the cave is considered to be the lake situated at the lower level which is astonishingly surrounded by huge stalactites and stalagmites.

To reach the level where the lake is, it is wise to be equipped with comfortable shoes and bear in mind that the lake’s water level is at its lowest point at the end of September while in winter at its highest point due to rainfall. Also impressive to see is a particular stalactite which is named the "cloak of Zeus" by the locals and it is literally hanging like a chandelier over the lake.

After you have completed your fascinating tour of the cave, return to the cosmopolitan village of Elounda and the luxurious Elounda Gulf Villas & Suites where you have selected to stay during your visit to the island of Crete. Relax and unwind in the privacy of your villa’s swimming pool overlooking the Aegean Sea and indulge in the multi star services of your personal heaven on earth. 

For reservations call us at +302108981884 or send us your request via e-mail at callcenter@tresorhotels.com

From: Eva Kanellopoulos

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