Crete Holidays
Resort

Crete
All You Need To Know

Crete, the largest and southernmost of the Greek Islands , is a land of astonishing diversity and natural beauty. This alluring isle forms a vibrant collage of ochre-coloured ruins, electric blue seas, buttermilk-coloured beaches and silver-green olive groves

Crete is an island of fascinating juxtapositions where the stark beauty of snow-capped mountains contrast with the lush allure of flower-filled plains; where unspoilt fishing villages sit side by side with sophisticated beach resorts; where the humble charm of inland hamlets is the perfect antidote to the lavish architecture of old Venetian cities; and where the sacred tranquility of the siesta hour allow you to prepare for the vivacious exuberance of a village wedding or a lively summertime festival.

The town of Rethymnon and its traditional surrounding villages are perfect bases from which to explore Crete because of their convenient central position on the island. The beautiful old Venetian heart of Rethymnon has drawn visitors, siren-like, from all over the world, eager to wonder at its charming assortment of winding, narrow streets, Italianate facades and Ottoman architecture. Those in search of real relaxation will also find plenty of places to indulge their pleasure – on long, untamed beaches and in tiny, sheltered coves; in beachside tavernas shaded by vine-covered trellises and outside simple kafenions where the village elders while away hot days sipping raki.

Set over on the west coast, the former capital of Crete , Chania, is an idyllic Venetian town dominated by soaring mountains. One never tires of wandering around through its back streets behind the port as there is always something interesting to see, be it a Turkish fountain, a crumbling Renaissance archway or even ancient Minoan stonework. Wherever your path leads, you're sure to encounter local women sitting outside doing their embroidery and in the more frequented streets you'll discover a host of shops selling jewellery, ceramics, textiles and leather goods. Not far away from Chania lie some tempting sandy beaches, including Chrissi Akti and Agios Apostolis.

The Gulf of Mirabello boasts some of the most incredible scenery along the whole northern coastline of Crete . It has everything to offer from picturesque towns to stunning harbours, and for those interested in history, there is no shortage of ancient sites to visit. Those looking to simply relax will find a variety of small, secluded coves or sandy beaches lined with enticing tavernas. In the undeveloped far east of Crete lies the most wild and beautiful coastline. Inland, small villages of almost Biblical appearance dot the hillsides and, along the many unsurfaced roads crossing the mountains, you're likely only to encounter local farmers travelling by mule. Palekastro in particular is a wonderful little rural town with a beautiful sandy beach close at hand. Its refreshingly authentic look and feel satisfies all the needs of the true Cretophile, providing good home cooking and just a dash of folklore. To the south, Kamilari is a wonderfully unspoilt village set in dramatic Cretan countryside. Hardly touched by tourism, it's hidden from the usual tourist trails and enjoys traditional village life. Nearby is Kalamaki beach and for those wanting to explore ancient sites, the impressive ruins at Phaestos are within easy reach.

Beaches

Crete has some fantastic coastal scenery ranging from rugged inlets sheltering beneath cliffs that jut out towards the sea to long sweeps of golden sand. The three bays at Hersonissos are pretty if a little too popular. The quiet life is never far away though if you are willing to do some exploring of your own. The large crescent of Chania Bay and the swathe of golden sand at Malia will tempt those who enjoy their beaches wide and long. You will also find various watersports from wind-surfing to scuba-diving here.

Shopping

Crete is not only famed for its cheeses, wines and olives, honey is also one of the island's finest products and a jar of it makes for a tasty souvenir. There are plenty of jewellery shops selling high quality silver and gold. Dolphins are considered lucky so they tend to feature in much of the jewellery.

Nightlife

As on most of the large Greek islands you can find a nightlife to suit your tastes. For raucous nights of beer and bright lights you should head to Malia. Aghios Nikolaos and Hersonissos have a more diverse range of entertainment from specialised restaurants to tavernas and the odd disco. Most towns have plenty of traditional bars to keep you refreshed, if you are lucky you'll get a spectacular sea view with your Raki.

Sightseeing

Being the birthplace of modern civilisation really gives Crete a head start when it comes to sightseeing. Knossos Palace is perhaps the finest and most evocative Minoan sight. The palace was the centre of the Minoan civilisation and the heartbeat of their culture.

Another fine Minoan sight is Phaestos, stunningly set above the lush Messara plain it was used for ancient ceremonies. Towns such as Chania and Rethymnon illustrate a different era in Cretan history. Here Turkish and Venetian architecture comes to the fore in the guise of large fortresses and narrow streets. Perhaps the most famous natural sight, away from the stunning coastline, is the Samaria Gorge that cuts 300m into the earth and snakes inland for 18km.

Local Specialities

The taverna's and bar of Crete serve up a mouth watering array of typical Greek dishes as well as a few Cretan specialities. For those willing to try the exotic, Saligaria stifado is a snail stew served with tomatoes, onions and herbs. Crete excels in cheese, Kaltsounia are small cheese pies coated with sesame seeds or cinnamon. You can also find plenty of small cheese makers around Rethymnon producing feta and Graviera, not unlike Gruyere. There's plenty to wash it down with too and it's not just Ouzo. Look out for Raki, a spirit distilled from grape skins, and Mournoraki, a brandy produced from mulberries.

Minoan Magic Visit the most famous of all the sights in Crete 'The Palace of Knossos'.

Join your expert guide on a journey into myth and legend as your learn the story of the Minotaur and the Labyrinth while unlocking the secrets of the ancient Minoan civiliasation. You have the option to visit the famous, archaeological museum (which houses the richest collection of Minoan art in the world) and see the many artefacts on display, or take some free time to browse around the bustling capital Heraklion.

Year after year our most popular trip

Sunshine Cruise (All areas except Chania)

As the name suggests this is your chance to tup up your tan, have lunch and take the plunge. Who said multitasking was difficult? You'll be taken on a traditional wooden sailing boat to the secluded island of Dia , home of the Kri-Kri goat. During the cruise you'll be entertained by our very own "local character" who will organise fun and games for your amusement. Relax and enjoy your BBQ lunch onboard and cool off in the clear blue waters. Book early to avoid disappointment, places are limited.