About Crete

A View of ChaniaCrete is the largest and most southerly of the Greek islands and is renowned for being an island of contrast: long, sandy beaches, crystal clear Mediterranean waters, rugged snow capped mountains and breathtaking scenery. Crete offers a never-ending amount of things to do on holiday, with a history that goes back centuries and which is evident all over the island, walks that have been recognised as spectacular or you can just soak up the Mediterranean lifestyle amongst the friendly Cretan people. A virtually unspoilt island in total, Crete has not been allowed to become too over-developed. Although tourism is an important part of the economy, the Greek government does not want it to become like Spain. There are areas that are tourist orientated, but the great majority of the island is as it has been for a very long time. Around Crete The coastal regions are probably the most well known as most of the population lives near the sea, but if you want to see more, travel inland. The countryside is beautiful with some breathtaking scenery, mountainous regions and villages dotted all over. Tavernas can be found in virtually every village and provide local Cretan food, freshly prepared and delicious. Climate The climate on Crete is typically Mediterranean: hot in summer and cool during spring and autumn. Average sunshine between June and August is about 13 hours daily, with little rainfall and temperatures between 85-90°F (25-32°C), and sometimes hotter. Food Eating in Crete is based around a Mediterranean diet: freshly prepared dishes with wonderfully flavoured local olive oil, herbs and fresh ingredients. There are plenty of salads with or without meat as well as traditional dishes such as baked fish with tomato and olive oil sauce, Boureki (courgettes, potatoes and soft cheese) and Marathopita (Fennel Pie). And of course, a glass of red wine to go with the meal! The Cretan diet is the basis for what is known today as the Mediterranean diet, healthy, full of flavour and wonderfully satisfying. Hospitality The Cretan people are renowned for their hospitality, and they like the English! They are a proud people and will readily speak to you, even if they do not speak much English, they will try. Breathtaking Mountain Views History The history of Crete can be traced back thousands of years, to the mythology of the Minoan times, through the Byzantine, Venetian and Turkish eras to the present day. All of these have left there mark and the archaeology of the island has brought them back. Museums in the larger towns and cities have displays of the island's history. See our Things To Do page here for more information about Walking and Hiking and Sight Seeing around Museums, Antiquities, Venetian Buildings, Churches and Monasteries. Whatever you decide to do on your holiday in Crete, you will have to come back to discover more. Click for Picture Galleries for Rethymno, Lake Kourna, the Waterfalls at Argiropouli, The Monastery at Arkadi. For more information about Crete, visit the Explore Crete website (in a new window).

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