Holiday Homes & Baches in Crete

As an island, Crete is a perfect destination for relaxing at the beach. However, there’s much more to fit in your trip. Consider yourself a fully-fledged hiking nut with a desire for untrodden gorges and peaks? From the dramatic Samaria gorges to the White Mountains and the ridges of Mount Ida topping out at 2.400 metres, there are trails and gullies aplenty to conquer. Nature lovers can opt for birdwatching. Underwater world is what you fancy? The island is a paradise for divers with its dramatic rocky scenery and crystal-clear blue waters. Nine miles from Agia Pelagia lies the famous Dia wreck that has been resting under the sea for more than 130 years. Dia island is one of the most recommended spots to explore this marine world. If you love water you also have a great choice of adrenaline pumping activities such as waterskiing, parasailing, jet ski and much more. Join in on a boat day-trip to Spinalonga island, Balos Lagoon, Gramvousa island or Loutro to enjoy an unforgettable sailing experience. Are you a driver with a penchant for riding unknown roads? You will find empty roads that wind past long-lost hamlets and explore the best wine routes scattered around the island.

Hania or Khania is the main town in Western Crete It was the capital until 1971. It’s a perfect place to explore on foot. Romantic alleys, buildings enclosed within the remains of 16th-century walls, a fishing harbour and overlooking the Aegean Sea. This is the ideal base for visiting the beaches of Elafonissi and Balos or go hiking in Samaria Gorge.

Looking for a challenge?Located in the Samaria National Park, this impressive gorge descends to arrive at the Libyan Sea in Agia Roumeli. This visit requires more effort than others. The stony path is quite challenging and depending on a person’s speed and fitness level , the hike can take between 4 to 7 hours. At the end of the trek you can hire a boat to Chora Sfakion. The park is open to visitors from May to mid-October.

This is the base for visiting Knossos and exploring central Crete. Heraklion grew up around the sea and the old town focuses on the harbour. Koules is its most notable monument. The old town is surrounded by massive defensive walls. Inside, the pedestrian-only streets are lined by shops, cafés, churches, buildings and boutiques.

Located in eastern Crete, on Mirabello Bay, Agios Nikolaos offers a mix of the modern and the traditional. Lots of legends and rumours are always swirling about the town’s Lake Voulimeni, an almost perfectly circular body of water. From here you can visit the Diktean Cave, the charming village of Kritsa, the 13th-century church of Panagia Kera or take a boat trip to Spinalonga Island.

If you look for beaches and good weather to enjoy everything the island has to offer, May from October is the best time to go. Currency exchange is better in the banks.The most popular souvenirs are leather goods, jewelry and crafts made by local artisans.If you want some wine go directly to the winery. Tipping is a common thing in restaurants and cafes and some of them include the service charge in the total score.