6 Reasons Why You Should Visit Crete This Summer
We made a list of some of the wonderful things you can experience in Crete this summer, all promising to compose a unique travel experience! We are certain that our reasons will persuade you to visit Crete this summer!
The Cretans have a saying; Crete is a model of the whole of Greece on a small scale. This means that Crete gathers almost all you can see in Greece, in just one island. It is so true! Mountains and beaches, significant archaeological sites and historic monuments, nature paths and beautiful gorges, you can find it all in one place. We wish to present you some of the reasons why this island is indeed a must see destination.
1. Relax by the beautiful, numerous Cretan Beaches
The vast majority of travelers, when thinking of Crete, they first bring the sea and beaches in mind. And they have very good reasons to do so! From Balos, located in Chania region to the west, to Vai palm beach, located in Lassithi region to the east, Cretan beaches will take your breath away! You can literary find a wonderful beach everywhere in Crete, no matter what your preferences are. Would you try to make a list of them, it would never end. There are numerous options for you to choose and explore a small heaven every day. Last but not least, the crystal clear water of Cretan and Libyan Sea refreshes and revitalizes both body and spirit.
2.Hike the legendary Cretan Mountains
It is said that the mountains of Crete are the core of the Cretan “soul”, the spirit and the values of this island. The mythical mountains of Crete are to be found throughout the whole island, from the east to the west. Mount Idi or Psiloritis, Lefka Ori (White Mountains) and Mount Dikti, as well as other lesser known mountain ranges of Crete, are bound to the islands’ long and impressive culture.
From myths and rituals in pre-historic times and antiquity, to traditions and battles for liberty of the Cretan people though out Crete historic course, every mountain of the island has a unique story to tell. Both nature and history lovers will dream of coming back. Archaeological sites such as the Cave of Zeus on Diki Range or Idaion Andron in Idi Mountains will thrill history lovers. Mountain wildlife and the ancient and varied flora and fauna of Crete, will steal nature lovers’ heart!
3. Explore impressive Archaeological Sites
The Minoan Palaces of Knossos and Phaistos are just two of the many important archaeological sites excavated in Crete. Crete was the home of the first Civilization of Europe starting 5.000 years ago, the Minoan Civilization. Archaeologists and historians are still impressed by the pioneering achievements of the Minoans. However, it is not just Minoan sites you can visit in Crete. A plethora of Sites throughout the island, dating back to the, Early Greek, Classic and Roman era, but also to the Byzantine and 20th century, evince the impressive historic course of Crete.
4.Find out about the Cretan Tradition and traditional Lifestyle
Cretan Tradition is admired in all of Greece and far beyond! Folk Arts Museums, Rural and Folk Art workshops still keep the Cretan Tradition alive. The legendary Cretan Hospitality is strongly bound to the Cretan way of living. Wonderful villages, ancient professions still practiced, local arts and even more incredible stories about Crete’s past are the magic touch in every Cretan Experience!
5.Cretan Cuisine and Culinary Tradition
Everyone who has tried the Cretan Cuisine, would agree that it deserves to be mentioned in a special category. The Mediterranean climate of Crete, and the special care of the local people on the countless natural products of the island, create the ideal standards for Gastronomy to bloom! The extra virgin quality of the Cretan Olive Oil, the splendid local Wines, the renowned Thyme Honey, the many local Cheese Varieties and the numerous local Recipes, are just the primary elements, to begin with the Cretan Cuisine.
6.Hike stunning Gorges and explore beautiful Lakes
For hiking lovers the Cretan river gorges, are a heaven – on – earth! The so renowned Samaria Gorge in west Crete and the imposing and mystical “Ravine of the Dead” in east Crete are just two examples of the over 250 Natural Gorges of the island. All havens for wildlife, they will make you love hiking even more! On the other hand, Lakes like Zaros and Kournas, present a vast variety of sweet water life. Their beauty and crystal clear waters will make you bring them in mind every time you close your eyes.
This is was just an introduction to the uniqueness and beauty of Crete. If you are looking for the Experience of a Lifetime, you just found your next destination. Among the countless stories and pictures which you will take with you back home, something else will also be there. The Desire to Get Back to Crete!