Crete is one of the most stunning islands of Greece, and visiting it is a holiday that you’re sure to remember forever. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit and really turn your holiday into something special.
Accommodation
Where you stay is one of the most important decisions of your trip, and it’s worth spending a little more to make sure you get the best quality. Choosing one of many villas in Crete is a different but exciting way to give your visit a little extra kick – absorb yourself in the true, luxurious experience and invest in a villa you can really relax in after a long day of exploring. Plus, with many including a swimming pool, it’s never been easier to live the good life and rock your holiday in style. You can find accommodation here with Blue Villas – they are an award-winning agency dedicated to finding the best quality for you. They have consultants who will handpick choices from over 150 villas so that you can find exactly what you’re looking for, meaning the whole stay is personal to you.
Scenery
One of the main draws of the Greek islands is the breath-taking scenery – whether you’re looking for beaches that wrap the coastline, hidden coves, valleys that envelope villages lined with narrow cobbled streets, mountains that are sprinkled with snow, or rough cliffs that are soaked with frothy, splashing waves, in Crete you’ll find it all. Don’t forget to bring a camera – you’ll need it, as every moment is picture worthy, and you won’t want to forget a second. There are countless orchards, gardens and plateaus for you to get your fill of the local wildlife and plants, and see the true beauty of what grows in Crete.
Activities
Crete is full of ways for you to spend your time, whichever way you choose to spend your time – if scenery is your thing, take one of the many walking tours (some free) of the island to gain an insight into the history and culture of Crete, as well as get the opportunity to take in some of the most beautiful sights. Take time to explore your surroundings and decide which areas you’d like to see the most – the more you explore, the more hidden gems you’ll come across to make your trip even more special.
If you’re looking for a little bit of paradise, Rethymno is one of the most beautiful harbours in the world, and is the perfect place to explore and relax by the gently rippling sea. One of the most bustling parts of Crete is Hania, where you can venture down narrow lanes and explore old Venetian and Turkish architecture, as well as get a taste of the old town and its history.
If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, we recommend hiking the Samaria Gorge – this is Europe’s longest gorge, and gives you access to some of the most incredible views in the world, allowing you to get a glimpse of the raw, untouched beauty of Greece. You’ll even get to explore the abandoned village of Samaria – an experience like no other, and one you certainly don’t want to miss.
History and Culture
If you’re looking to learn a bit more about the history and culture of Crete, it’s not hard to find – there’s plenty to see! You’ll find ruins and remnants of societies been and gone, one of the most prominent being the Palace of Knossos, with plenty more fortresses and mansions scouring the island thanks to the variety of different invaders that have taken a fancy to Crete, along with mosques and Turkish bathhouses.
The villages in Crete are still untouched, particularly those hidden in valleys and mountains, and they give you a deep insight to life for locals on Crete as well as the chance to immerse yourself in the culture. There are lots of customs and traditions that many of the locals still enact with pride, from dances and instruments (the lyra is a popular instrument in Crete) to local festivals, which occur often and keep the place alive and colourful.
Food
Greek cuisine is one of the finest in the world, and is not to be missed if you visit, particularly in Crete. Since many of the villages are tucked away from mainstream tourism, this is where you’ll find the most authentic and delicious food. Many tavernas make their own food including cheese, olive oil, raki and wine, and often will raise their own meat and catch their own seafood, meaning you’re bound to get top-quality, homemade food straight from the locals. There are plenty of food trails and wine-tastings so you can expand your palette and really explore the world of Greek cuisine and what it’s all about.
Crete is an experience like no other, and with these tips, you’ll be able to make your holiday an extra special one that you’re certain to never forget. Have fun!
