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Crete
Shrouded in myth, blessed with natural beauty and brimming with historical sights, Crete is simply captivating
The minute you set foot on this intoxicating island, its charming clash of scenery will steal your heart. Snow dusted mountains sweep down to fields splashed with flowers. Unspoilt fishing villages sit alongside stylish beach resorts. And humble hamlets give way to the lavish architecture of Venetian cities. It's a match made in heaven. If you're seeking rest and relaxation you'll soon settle into the gentle Greek pace of life here. Whether you want to stretch out on untamed beaches, sit under vinecovered trellises at traditional tavernas and chat to locals, or go in search of mystical ruins - there's some for everyone, whatever's on your wish list.
Birthplace of the legendary Zeus, Crete is crammed full of history. Embark on a mythical journey at Knossos Palace, the isle's most important archaeological site. Stroll through the old Venetian heart of Rethymnon. Or wander through the old capital of Chania, passing the Turkish fountain, Renaissance archway and ancient Minoan stonework. If the captivating coastline is calling you, glittering sands encircle Crete. Not far from Chania lie some alluring beaches, including Chrissi Akti and Agios Apostolis, which are well worth a visit. No trip here is complete though, without a visit to the breathtaking Samaria Gorge National Park.
N
ranean Sea Mediter
Akra Spatha Maleme
At a glance
Share& some meze - Greek specialities such as dacos - toasted bread with tomatoes and oregano Explore& the ancient remains of centuries-old civilizations such as the Greco-Roman city of Lato and the ruins of the Phaestos near Kamilari, with a Minoan tomb from 1900 BC Unwind& on the Gulf of Mirabello, which has incredible scenery. Festivals& Battle of Crete in Chania in the last week of May, with ceremonial events * Navy Week in June in Crete's harbour towns, with music and merriment * Feast of John the Baptist on June 24th, colourful celebrations all over the island * Wine Festival of Rethymnon in July in the park * Paleohora Music Festival in August * Sultana Festival in Sitia in August.The main town of eastern Crete, Sitia, prides itself on its sultana production and celebrates the fact for four days in the middle of August.
Chania
Akra Trypiti
Amoudara
Hersonissos
Heraklion Kamisiana Stavros Sissi Akra Fodele Akra Dia Kolymbari Stalos Almeritha Sideros Stavros Vrouchas Stalis Bali Gulf of Palekastro Kefalas Veni Platanias Akra Elounda Rethymnon Maheri Mirabello Plaka Malia Kastri Apokoronas Georgioupoli Mou Knossos Koutouloufari Aghios Nikolaos Livadia Kastelli 2452 Istron nt I Gouves 2148 2456 da Elafonissi Kalo Monastiraki Plakias PrinaChorio Paleochora Loutro Sfakia Timbaki Agia Triada Ierapetra Festos Koufonisi Kamilari Chrysi Matala Lentas Akra Lithino
a mari Saorge G
Gavdos
Mediter
ranea
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CRETE Crete
30 km
© TUI 2005
Climate
Crete Apr 20
Average daily maximum temperature (ºC) May 24 Jun 27 Jul 29 Aug 28 Sept 26 Oct 23
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