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Crete

Crete

Crete, the largest island in Greece, captivates the senses combining wild natural beauty, great cultural wealth, exquisite cuisine, and warm hospitality.

There's something undeniably breathtaking about the way the Cretan landscape unfolds, from the sun-drenched northern beaches to the rugged, cliff-lined southern coast. The island's history is as rich and captivating as its landscape; a colourful tapestry of canyons and rolling hills, splendid beaches, lively towns, and picturesque villages!

The birthplace of the Minoans, the first advanced European civilisation, Crete boasts numerous archaeological sites and some of the most famous landmarks in Greece, such as the Minoan palaces of Knossos, Phaistos, Malia, and Kato Zakros. On Crete, there is a diverse mixture of landmarks such as Venetian castles, Ottoman mosques, and Byzantine chapels, which explains why Crete is such a vibrant crossroads of cultures.

The renowned Cretan hospitality is generous and welcoming, just like the island's landscape. Proud and family-orientated, Cretans are always eager to enjoy delicious specialities, have a shot of fiery raki or sing mantinades, the local poems often accompanied by a Cretan lyre or lute. At the traditional 'kafeneia' older men recount memories of the island's past or tales of vendettas between feuding families. There is something genuinely authentic in Crete's culture and experiencing part of it is a truly gratifying experience.

From bustling towns to unspoiled villages tucked in the mountains, Crete has it all. The old town of Chania is one of the most charming places in the country, with its world-renowned Venetian lighthouse and charming harbour teeming with bars, cafes, restaurants, and elegant hotels. Rethymno is also a fantastic settlement boasting Venetian buildings, mosques, minarets, fountains and cobblestone alleys lined with shops, cafes, and bars. Heraklio is Crete's liveliest city, while Agios Nikolaos is a cosmopolitan summer resort surrounded by a mystical aura. Last but not least, Elounda, an affluent paradise of sophisticated resorts and hotels, with private beaches, pools, and piers, has the highest concentration of five-star resorts and is a top location for a luxury holiday in Greece.

Crete's lovely beaches are featured in numerous travel guides; the breathtaking Balos lagoon, the enchanting beach of Falasarna, and of course Elafonisi - Crete's ‘hidden gem’ and the largest beach on the island with its pink-tinted sand and exotic allure - all attract thousands of visitors every year. Episkopi and Petres have avid young fans, while Ierapetra's golden coast is also mesmerising.

Things to do:

  • Relish Local Specialities
    Crete is undoubtedly a culinary paradise and be sure to try some of the famous Cretan cheeses, mountain herb honey, Kalitsounia (a delightful cheese pie), and a crunchy dakos salad. The Cretan diet is among the healthiest in the world, and if you pair your meal with excellent local wine and a shot of delicious raki, you will genuinely immerse into the Cretan way of life!
  • Explore Knossos Palace
    A labyrinth of massive columns and beautiful frescoes, the Palace of Knossos brilliantly proves the sophistication of the ancient Minoan civilisation. Home to the mythical Minotaur, Knossos is the most important archaeological site on Crete and is often referred to as the oldest city in Europe.
  • Visit Spinaloga Island
    An arid, rocky islet lying opposite Elounda, Spinaloga is today an uninhabited island that has a turbulent past and a fascinating story to tell. Spinalonga was invaded by Arabs, conquered by the Venetians, and occupied by Ottomans, before being turned into a leper colony.
  • Discover the Palm Forest in Vai
    The largest palm forest in Europe is home to 4,500, 2,000-year-old trees and one of the most spectacular places in Crete. In fact, the exotic beach with the endemic palm forest in the backdrop looks much more like an African or Caribbean seascape than a Mediterranean location.
  • Hike the Samaria Gorge
    Stretching for over 16 kilometres, the Samaria Gorge is thought to be the longest in Europe and makes for an exciting hike. The spectacular scenery will leave you speechless and if you’re lucky you may even catch a glimpse of endemic animal species, such as the Kri-Kri the Cretan wild goat or Cretan badger. Crossing the gorge is a fascinating journey, not only for hiking lovers but for all those who want to experience the grandeur of the Cretan landscape and gaze at the stunning views of the Libyan Sea.

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