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CRETE

The Perfect Place for the Perfect Vacation

The Largest of the Greek Islands

THE AREA

Crete is the largest island in Greece, and the fifth largest one in the Mediterranean Sea. In Crete you can admire the remnants of brilliant civilizations, explore glorious beaches, impressive mountains, fertile valleys and steep gorges, and become part of the island’s rich culture. There’s something undeniably artistic in the way this landscape unfolds, from the sun-drenched beaches in the north to the rugged canyons spilling out at the cove-carved and cliff-lined southern coast. In between, valleys cradle moody villages. There are different regions in Crete, such as Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion and Lasithi all worth a visit!

Activities

The best time to visit Crete is from May to October when it's sunny and hot, perfect for swimming.

SUMMER PARADISE

Crete is a very historical area, most of the main attractions include historical sites such as Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Palace of Knossos, Phaestos, Palace of Malia and Venetian Harbour. There are many more so be sure to check them all out. Another main attraction is the beach, Crete has countless beaches that can not be missed. Balos is one of the most exotic sandy beaches in Crete, a wonderful place in Chania with crystal Caribbean-like waters. Another of the most beautiful beaches in Crete is the exotic beach of Elafonissi also Chania, on the westernmost spot of Crete, as well as the long, sandy beach of Falassarna. Finding a perfect beach is not a problem in Crete, as there are endless stretches of breathtaking coastlines

RESTAURANTS AND CUISINE

If you’re a foodie, you will be in heaven in Crete. From local cuisine to western you will find it all, so don't worry if you have specific taste, though the local food is a certainly a must to try. Rural tavernas often produce their own meat, cheese, olive oil, raki and wine, and catch their own seafood. Follow a gourmet trail across the landscape and you’ll be delighted in distinctive herbs and greens gathered from each hillside, cheeses made fresh with unique village - or household-specific recipes, and honey flavoured by mountain herbs. The Cretan diet is among the healthiest in the world. Pair your meal with excellent local wine, and top it off with a strong shot of raki.

NIGHTLIFE

You will find plenty of bars and clubs, some well-hidden in the picturesque alleys of the old town and others lining the water font with a gorgeous view to the night sky. There are many clubs in Malia and Stalis, the two places that are mostly frequented by tourists. There are lounge bars with soft music and exotic cocktails.

Events

YEARLY EVENTS

There are many events and festivals held in Crete throughout the year. A few include Kyrvia Festival (July to August) features a program of cultural activities including singing and dancing nights by local folk and popular groups and special concerts by famous artists. The Carnival (February or March), the annual pre-lent celebrations bring four weeks of dancing and masquerading, games, treasure hunts, and a grand street parade. Marine Week (last week of June) in even-numbered years, this celebration has swimming, windsurfing and boat races.

Travel to Crete

AIRPORTS

Crete has three airports from west to east, Haniá, Iráklio (Heraklion) and Sitía. Both Iráklio and Haniá connect to Athens by 4 to 7 flights daily on Olympic or Aegean. Olympic also provides daily flights from Rhodes to Sitía. Take a flight to one of the bigger cities and easily connect to Crete.

FERRY

There is a ferryboat from the port of Piraeus to Heraklion and Chania. Ships depart every evening around 20:00 or 20:30 and arrive early in the morning between 5:00 or 6:00. The ships are modern, cheaper than flying and can be quite romantic.

TRANSFERS

We can arrange for a mini bus, taxi, or chauffeur-driven service from your chosen location to your luxury villa in Crete.

SELF-DRIVING

Crete is a wonderful place to drive, there is no more varied or scenic set of routes and roads than those traversing the island. You can rent a car in any one of the regions.

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