 CRETE - The island of Minos
From the first moment that a traveller sets foot on the island of Crete, he finds himself in an enchanted world. Indeed, following the coastal road, the voyager will delight in the breathtakingly blue sea as he is led gradually upwards to behold a spectacular landscape. Crete is a paradise offering holidays to satisfy all tastes.
Nature lovers, fans of archaeology, enthusiasts of the highlrfe and good eating, in fact everyone will enjoy the charm of Greece's largest island. Crete proves a great attraction to overseas visitors, but despite influences from other countries the island retains its traditional character. On the one hand there are modem deluxe hotels, while on the otherthere are picturesque inns built in the true Cretan architectural style, and all set against a backdrop of unspoilt countryside, appealing to those who wish to experience the genuine face of the island. |
Not all the island is uniformly developed. Indeed, the southern coastline is very rugged and quite inhospitable due to the constant strong winds. This is in stark contrast to the northern coastline, which is well protected with magnificent beaches, quaint little marinas and large hotels, which can compete with the very best in the Eastern Mediterranean. These qualities combine and are complimented by the famous Cretan hospitality.
Crete was, at one time, the centre of one of the most ancient civilisations of the world. It is located in the Eastern Mediterranean, approximately equidistant between the mainland of Greece and the continent of Africa, and has so much to offer that the island is unforgettable. It is a mountainous island, the highest peak being Mt. Ides, and, as legend would have it, the birth place of the god Zeus. Livestock and cheese making are well-developed activilies, while the fertile plains and valleys are covered with olive, citrus and almond trees, vineyards and fruit orchards. |
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Nature has blessed the island in every way possible-the wild gorges, high mountains, wide plains, peaceful lakes, green forests, and beaches with crystal clear waters leave millions of visitors speechless at the beauty year after year. Crete is known all over the world for its amazing Minoan Empire, the first traces of which were first broughtto light bythe English archaeologist, Arthur Evans. Three other well known names are associated with the island; those of Domenico Theotokopoulos, the artist better known by his Spanish nickname El Greco (the Greek) the politician Eleftherios Venizelos, who by his perspicacity was able to unite Crete with Greece; and the renowned writer Nicos Kazantzakis. |
The locals are not only aware of the stunning beauty of their island, butthey also rememberthe heroic battles under the Turkish occupation and the holocaust of Arcadia, a sad event which moved the whole world. |
Towns in Crete island
One of the most idyllic old towns of Crete is Chania. It spreads outwards from the Venetian harbour and traces of the former Venetian and Ottoman invaders are still very much in evidence. The tinywinding roadways add to the charm of the picturesque town. In the summer months these streets are teeming with people of different nationalities. In terms of population Chania is not as large as Heraklion, home of the most important port on the island. The growth of Heraklion is also in part due to its proximityto Knossos, the site of the palace of Minos and the mythical labyrinth of the minotaur. Minos' palace dates back to about 2000 BC and was only uncovered in C20th. The excavations are truly quite unique. |
Rethimnon is a further town worlhy of note. Here, there are many remains from the post-Minoan period. It is the only town on the island, which still maintains its strong characterfrom the Middle Ages with a host of Venetian buildings, signs displaying coats of arms and numerous monuments.
The castle of Fortetsa dominates the Venetian harbour and is a constant reminder of times gone by. The renovated mansions with their intricately decorated windows are particularly eye catching. The Turkish latticework screens, mosques with tall minarets, restaurants in shady gardens with sweet smelling herbs and flowers, these are just some of the delightsto befound in Rethimnon. |
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The focus of interest falls principally on the archaeological treasures of Heraklion. Enteringthe port byship, the Fortress of Koules isthe firstsight to meet one's eyes. Graphic roadways and large squares complete the picture. Modemdaylifehas taken over in this main town in the summer the luxury hotels, shopping areas, and elegant restaurants are all bustling with thousands of tourists.
Avisitor exploring the island will discoverthat it is a veritable treasure trove, revealing its grandeur in the least expected places. When one conquers the mountains in a car; when one listens to the sound of the wing beats of the vultures greatly magnified within the walls of thegorges;when one crosses a large plain to reach a medieval village or a ruined settlement, which comes alive when one knows of its heroic pastamong the legendary caves and of the tales of Venetian fortresse; then one has a clear picture of the true Crete and then the island claims a large part of one's heart. |
Hotels in Crete island |
Castello Hotel 
L. 62 Martiron 1, Heraklio (Crete)
The Hotel CASTELLO is the ideal choice for the visitor of the city of Heraklion. It was designed so as to satisfy the highest demands of its select clientele, professional as well as recreational. I More… |
KORIFI SUITES 
Hersonissos-Piskopiano, Heraklion, Crete
Picturesque buildings filled with lush Mediterranean plants welcomes you to the KORIFI SUITES –This unique individual hotel belongs to the world's most affordable small hotels with an elegant and Greek island style More… |
Lato Boutique Hotel
15 Epimenidou Street, Heraklion, Crete
Lato is a three-star superior hotel, recently renovated and open throughout the year. It is conveniently located for tourists and businessmen. More…
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Blue Palace, Resort & Spa 
Plaka, Elounda, Crete
Welcome to the Mediterranean Retreat of BLUE PALACE, Resort & Spa at Elounda, Crete. A resort of exceptional quality and style set in mythical surroundings to sooth and inspire. More… |
Mythos Palace Hotel
Mythos Palace offers a wonderful family atmosphere and combines the real Cretan hospitality in an environment, based on modern but also traditional Cretan architecture. Located in Chania Crete. More... |
Perle Resort Hotel & Health Spa Marine
B.P. 268, Stavros, Chania, Crete
The traditional countryside of the beautiful Akrotiri-peninsula with its quiet sandy beaches is the surrounding of the recently built “Perle Resort Hotel & Health SPA Marine”, some 17 kms from Chania More… |
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