Makrigialos stretches along the south-east coast of Crete in the Lasithi region, east of Ierapetra, where one of the longest shallow sandy beaches in the area meets warm, gentle water. This low-key resort keeps a relaxed pace through the season, well off the mass-tourism track. Families with young children appreciate the safe swimming, while the … Read more
Spili sits high in the mountains of central Crete, a green oasis of plane trees, spring water and whitewashed charm on the road south from Rethymno toward the coast. The village is famous for its Venetian fountain, where nineteen carved lion heads spout cold mountain water into a long stone trough beneath the shade of … Read more
Bali sits tucked into the north coast of Crete, midway between Rethymno and Heraklion in the Rethymno region. This small resort spreads across hillsides above a working fishing harbour, built around sheltered coves and sandy beaches that include Livadi, Varkotopos, Karavostasi and Evita. The calm, shallow water and low-rise development create a relaxed atmosphere that … Read more
Seitan Limania stands among the most photographed locations on Crete, a slender turquoise inlet slicing through bare rock cliffs on the Akrotiri peninsula. The dramatic cove, also known as Stefanou beach, rewards visitors with vivid blue-green water framed by towering stone walls that create a fjord-like atmosphere rare in the Mediterranean. Reaching this natural wonder … Read more
Chrissi Island, also known as Gaidouronisi, floats in the Libyan Sea just south of Ierapetra as one of Crete’s most pristine natural sanctuaries. This small uninhabited island captivates visitors with its rare Lebanon cedar forest, golden sand beaches, and shallow turquoise waters that glow under the Mediterranean sun. Protected as a nature reserve, Chrissi offers … Read more
Ierapetra holds the distinction of being the southernmost city in Europe, sprawling across the narrow waist of Crete in the Lasithi region. This working town on the island’s sun-drenched south coast offers an authentic Cretan experience far removed from the polished resort atmosphere found elsewhere. The Venetian fortress Kales stands guard over the old harbour, … Read more
Crete stands out among Greek islands for its exceptional network of hiking trails that wind through dramatic gorges, climb to mountain summits and trace the coastline between remote villages. Walkers discover landscapes ranging from the towering rock walls of the White Mountains to green ravines sheltering waterfalls in the east. The island’s long-distance paths connect … Read more
Crete transforms during the winter months, revealing a quieter, greener side far removed from the summer crowds. From November through March, the island’s coastal cities remain mild and welcoming, while snow blankets the high peaks of Psiloritis, the White Mountains, and Lasithi. Resort areas close down, but the authentic heart of Crete beats stronger in … Read more
Hersonissos, officially known as Limenas Chersonisou, stands as one of Crete’s most vibrant resort towns along the island’s northern coastline. Located east of Heraklion, this bustling holiday centre draws visitors with its long sandy beaches, animated harbour, and comprehensive entertainment options. The town combines water parks and beachfront relaxation with proximity to ancient Minoan sites, … Read more
Georgioupoli occupies a prime stretch of Crete’s north coast between Chania and Rethymno, where the Almyros river meets the sea. This low-key resort village centres on a large square shaded by tall eucalyptus trees and fronts a sandy beach that stretches for kilometres along the bay. The tiny chapel of Agios Nikolaos stands offshore, reached … Read more
Agia Galini spills down a steep hillside to meet the Gulf of Messara on Crete’s southern shore. This former fishing village has grown into a relaxed resort that retains its small-scale charm and friendly atmosphere. The harbour forms the heart of town, lined with traditional tavernas and cafés where locals and visitors gather to watch … Read more
Zaros rests on the southern slopes of Mount Psiloritis in central Crete, a green oasis fed by mountain springs that give the village its reputation across the island. The small Lake Votomos glimmers beside tavernas serving fresh trout raised in the clear water, and the Rouvas Gorge climbs through ancient oak forests to remote chapels … Read more