Crete
Welcome to Crete
🏝️ Crete: between ancient myths and turquoise sea
📍 Geography and identity
- Largest island in Greece, located in the south of the country, between the Aegean Sea and the Libyan Sea.
- It extends over more than 260 km long but remains narrow from north to south.
- Its relief is mountainous, with peaks like the Mount Ida (2,456 m) and the White Mountains (Lefká Óri), which house the famous Samaria Gorge.
🏛️ Historical heritage
- Cradle of the Minoan civilization, one of the oldest in Europe (2700–1400 BC).
- The Palace of Knossos, near Heraklion, is the most emblematic archaeological site, linked to the myth of the Minotaur.
- The island has been successively influenced by the Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Venetians and Ottomans, which is reflected in its architecture and culture.
🌊 Landscapes and nature
- Cut ribs, pink sand beaches (like Elafonissi) or black pebbles, secret coves and crystal clear waters.
- Fertile plateaus, olive groves, vineyards, and villages perched in the mountains.
- Nature reserves, such as that of Samaria, classified as a world biosphere, and Balos, a heavenly lagoon accessible on foot or by boat.
🏘️ Culture and traditions
- The Cretans are renowned for their warm hospitality, their identity pride, and their traditional music played on the lute and the lyre.
- The Cretan cuisine est l’une des plus saines du monde : huile d’olive, légumes frais, fromages locaux (comme le graviera), raki et vin maison.
- Village festivals (panigiria) combine dancing, music and community meals until the end of the night.
🏙️ Towns and villages
- Heraklion : modern, lively capital, with museums and markets.
- Chania : a Venetian city with incredible charm, with its colorful port and cobbled streets.
- Rethymno : a mixture of oriental and European influences, with a fortress and a picturesque old town.
- Agios Nikolaos, Sitia, Sfakia : coastal or mountain villages, each with its unique character.
✨ Why Crete is unforgettable
It is an island where the thousand-year-old history rubs shoulders raw nature, where each village tells a legend, and where the time seems to slow downWe come here for the beaches, the hikes, the flavors... and we stay for the Cretan soul, proud and generous.
Located on the northern coast of Crete, Heraklion is a city that does not lack charm. With its Venetian architecture, picturesque streets, and lively squares, it offers a unique experience for travelers. The city is also home to several important historical sites, including the Venetian Koules Fort and the Morosini Fountain. Furthermore, Heraklion is known for its vibrant culinary scene, with a variety of restaurants offering local specialties.
Chania is a city located on the northwest coast of Crete, Greece. It is known for its old Venetian harbor, cobblestone streets, and historic buildings. The city is also famous for its local cuisine, especially its fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes.
Hiking from Paleochora to the Anydri Gorge in Crete is an unforgettable experience for nature and discovery lovers. The trail winds through varied landscapes, ranging from lush green hills to steep gorges. Hikers can admire the local flora, including ancient olive trees and colorful wildflowers.
The Lissos to Sougia hike in Crete is an unforgettable experience for nature and discovery lovers. This several-hour walk will allow you to discover magnificent landscapes, between the sea and the mountains, as well as fascinating archaeological remains.
Samaria National Park, located in Crete, is a true natural gem. It is home to exceptional flora and fauna, as well as breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can discover spectacular gorges, lush forests, and secluded beaches.
Mount Gingilos is one of Crete's most impressive peaks, reaching over 2,000 meters above sea level. The Xiloskalos hike offers a unique way to experience this majestic mountain. The trail is well-marked and accessible to hikers of all levels, although a certain level of fitness is required to reach the summit.
The Samaria Gorge, located in Crete, offers a breathtaking natural spectacle. With its steep cliffs and lush vegetation, it stretches for nearly 16 kilometers. Hikers can discover a rich and varied flora and fauna, as well as historical remains such as the ancient abandoned village of Samaria.
Agia Roumeli is a picturesque village located on the southwest coast of Crete, Greece. Surrounded by rugged mountains and beaches, it offers an idyllic setting for vacationers seeking relaxation and discovery.
The Agia Roumeli – Marmara Beach – Loutro hike in Crete offers an unforgettable experience for lovers of nature and spectacular landscapes. This multi-hour excursion allows you to discover the wonders of the southwest coast of the island, between rugged cliffs, secluded coves and crystal-clear waters.
Nestled in the heart of Crete, Mount Psiloritis is a must-see destination for nature lovers. This imposing peak, 2,456 meters high, is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can discover a rich and diverse flora and fauna, as well as archaeological remains testifying to the region's millennia-old history.