Omalos near Viannos is a plateau in the Lassithi ( Dikti) mountain range. It is not as well known as other plateaus on Crete and there is an unsealed road from Ano Simi and Pefkos. In springtime water from the melting snow creates a small shallow lake on the plateau. The route to the Omalos plateau (also called Viannos or Viannou plateau) is very impressive. The plateau lies 1300 metres above sea level and is quite spectacular. There is a small lake in the centre, a small chapel and a primitive hut which is the home base of three shepherds, the Stavrakakis brothers. The road crosses the plateau from west to east and then continues winding down through beautifully dense pinewood forest.
The Viannos area is situated on the south side of the Dikti mountain range, with the small Osalos plateau above a superb coastline. The capital and seat of the district is the village of Ano Viannos, which lies 560 metres above sea level, 65 km from Iraklion and 40 km from Ierapetra. The mountainous range with the villages of Moraitika, Kato Viannos, Hondros, Vahos, Amiras, Agios Vassilios, Kefalovrissi, Pefkos, Kalami, Sykologos, Ano Simi en Kato Symi, is an area of outstanding natural beauty. Most of the villages maintain their traditional architectural style, whilst several old churches are to be found here as well. Small ravines with streams and diverse vegetation are another characteristic feature of the area. The most important product of Viannos is its unique and famous olive oil.
A monument at Amiras is dedicated to the sacrifice of the Viannites and the massacre of 14 September 1943 when 358 men, women and children were executed. Many villages were burned to the ground after the Geman Commander ordered his troups to “ Destroy VIANNOS County”.
