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Thomson Destinations
Chania
Location 60km west of Rethymnon Transfer time 30 minutes Chania is not just a resort. It's an odyssey through Cretan history, with a rich cultural legacy from the Byzantine, Arabian, Venetian and Turkish occupations. Just take a wander along the warren of streets in the Old Town and you'll come across ruins from the Minoan era, medieval fortifications, a 17th century fort and mosques with minarets. Not to mention the towering Venetian-Egyptian lighthouse which guards the entrance to the harbour. When you've had your fill of sightseeing though, you'll no doubt be ready for some well-deserved relaxation. You'll find Chania beach to the west of town, with more sands stretching out towards the neighbouring resort of Kolimbari. With shallow waters, the swimming is safe, so it's particularly good for families.
Crete
Rethymnon
Location 60km east of Chania and 70km west of Heraklion Transfer time 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours Crete's third largest town, the beautiful harbour of Rethymnon, is a Greek treat and a half. You only need to take a stroll around its intricate maze of streets, laced with white-washed cottages, past fine buildings and churches and you'll experience the real Crete. It seems little has changed for decades here. The open air markets are as lively as ever, and the shops, the tavernas and al fresco restaurants fizz with activity. And wherever you wander, you'll notice the influence of previous visitors. The Venetians held Rethymnon in high regard and their architecture can be seen in quiet courtyards and elaborate fountains, as well as the huge fortress which stands above the harbour, presenting a stern face northwards across the Sea of Crete.
Hersonissos/Stalis/Malia
Location Approx 30km west of Aghios Nikolaos Transfer time 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes Stalis is perfect for relaxed, lazy days on the beach with azure blue waters lapping against the beautiful stretch of golden sand dotted with sunbeds and parasols. There are plenty of watersports on offer and away from the beach you will find sights such as the Palace of King Minos at Knossos and Heraklion. Relax on the fine, golden sand of Malia Beach, one of the best in the island, which stretches between three and five kilometres. Vibrant and cosmopolitan, Hersonissos clusters around an exceptionally pretty harbour. Inland lies the heart of the town, throbbing with bars, shops and restaurants. Further inland lies Old Hersonissos quietly watching over its louder sibling below. You can come here for some tranquil respite from the beach and party life that this resort specialises in.
Gouves
Location About 17km east of Heraklion Transfer time About 40 minutes Skirting the shores of Crete's northern coastline, Gouves hits the spot location-wise. On the one hand, this no-fuss resort lets you get to grips with traditional Greek life. And on the other, it's a great base for exploring this sun bathed isle. We're talking places like the mystical Palace of Knossos. The island of Spinalonga with its Venetian fort and intriguing history as one of Europe's last leper colonies. And historical Heraklion with its cosmopolitan shops and non-stop night scene. If you've come away to simply kick-back though, your time here will tick-by beautifully. A purpose-built resort of whitewashed buildings, which trickles out from a mountain backdrop - Gouves fans out from one main street. Laced with shops, restaurants and tavernas, the place is as friendly as they come.
Elounda/Koutouloufari/Aghios Nikolaos
Location Approx 50km east of Heraklion Transfer time 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes The busy harbour at Aghios Nikolaos opens onto the beautiful Gulf of Mirabello. Surrounded by attractive cafés and little shops, its a charming place to watch the world wander by. Elounda, just 10 kilometres north of Aghios Nikolaos, boasts views across the Gulf of Mirabello. Evenings can be spent in one of the many harbour-side tavernas. The picturesque village of Koutouloufari is the perfect place for a relaxing holiday with magnificent views of the sea and the port of Hersonissos. Koutouloufari is situated above Hersonissos and has preserved its traditional Greek character. There are some lovely shops and restaurants and many people from Hersonissos come to Koutouloufari for a night out.
Sky digital 647 Visit your travel agent to 10p/min plus 6p set Call 0871 230 8100 Calls cost upother providers' charges up fee from a BT landline. Mobile and may vary.
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