The light seems never to be full of Greek beauty. In winter, it is still
there, bright as always but somewhat sweeter. It revives the winter
colors, whilst the mild temperatures rejuvenate the desire for
exploration of Greek beauty. If you believed that islands journey
through the winter months in solitude, in the sea while reminiscing the lively summers, the time has come to be informed of the opposite.
Crete. Enchanting the soul.
Where: The most southern island of Greece!!
Why: The
distinct variety of the geophysical scenery,
the mild climate, as well as the innumerable cultures influencing the
island, spanning from 6.000 B.C. when the first prehistoric settlements
appeared, to 1913, when
Crete
annexed the rest of Greece, are the decisive factors that created
Crete’s image today. Spectacular, beautiful and unique, Crete dominates
the southern Aegean, full of pride and enchants, all who visit, with its
irresistible charm
Where to visit:
Chania: The county of
Chania
is the most western of the four on the island, characterized by the
imposing “White Mountains” and the famous national park that takes up
the largest part of the county. Chania is also the capital of the county
and is not only one of the
most beautiful cities of the island,
but of the whole of Greece. The magnificent neoclassical estates, as
well as the Venetian strongholds, compose a unique setting. In the
harbor you will find some of the greatest attractions, including the
famous Maritime Museum and the Turkish mosque, one of the oldest Ottoman
buildings on the island. While
travelling with children,
visit the City Park, which dates back to the 19th century. There you
will find a small zoo, as well as, a playground, where you can spend a
few carefree moments. You will have the opportunity to enjoy the now
world renowned
Cretan cuisine, known for its beneficial properties and the longevity it offers. For the
nature-lovers, the county’s trademark is the
Samaria Gorge,
which is an ideal destination, mainly in the summer season. Also for
nature-lovers is Lake Kourna, the only natural freshwater lake in all of
Crete, where you can enjoy a one-of-a-kind evening walk, as well as, a
family picnic.
Rethymno: Surrounded by the White Mountains and Mount Psiloritis (Ida) is the county of
Rethymno,
which is a jewel on the island of the Crete, defined by beauty and
history. The old district of Rethymno, also the name of the capital,
stands out for its unique architecture and a combination of Venetian and
Turkish mansions that bewitch visitors with their every step. Built in
the 16th century in order to protect residents from pirate invasions,
the famous fortress
Fortezza
adorns the city’s harbor. The archaeological museum’s doors are open,
helping visitors journey through the city’s history. The well-known
Monastery of Arkadi awaits you 24 kilometers southeast of Rethymno; a
symbol of bravery of the Cretans against the Turkish occupiers. For
those who love mountains,
79 kilometers southeast of Rethymno, above Mount Psiloritis, is the
breathtaking Nida plateau with its trademark, stone-vaulted, pastoral
residences, known as “mitata”.
Winter escapades and winter sports
can be enjoyed at the plateau’s ski resort. Built on a rocky edge, at
an altitude of 730 meters, you will encounter the beautiful, graphic
village of Anogia. Visitors come closer to Cretan tradition, through
shops with handmade, colorful weavings and embroidery and for those who
love
authentic, local flavors; you can experience culinary
traditions in the village’s taverns. Indulge yourself in the aroma of raki and the Cretan lyra’s melodies.
Heraklion: This is the largest and most populated county on
the island and has some of the greatest archaeological sites in Greece.
The Palaces of
Knossos and
Phaistos is just one of many sites.
Heraklion
is also the birthplace of the Minoan civilization, the most ancient
civilization of the European continent and one of the greatest
civilizations of humanity. This was also the birthplace of one of the
greatest artists of all time, El Greco, whose works became a symbol of
Renaissance perfection.
In the center of the town, Venizelos Square awaits, surrounded by stores for your shopping sprees and cafes for your
relaxation. Standing in command in the harbor is the
Venetian castle,
which is worth your while to visit. Nearby, in Eleftheria (Freedom)
Square, the archaeological museum is a true revelation, as it houses the
largest collection of Minoan civilization findings. Two of the most
important Minoan palaces in all of Crete lie a few kilometers away from
the city; archaeological site of Phaistos is approximately 5 kilometers
south of the city, while 65 kilometers southwest of the city, is the
impressive Palace of Knossos
Aside from history, outside of the city, one can also enjoy Heraklion’s
amazing nature.
Caves, canyons and green areas delineate the hinterland’s scenery and
invite explorers to enjoy activities such as hiking and biking. At the
same time, well-hidden,
traditional settlements and villages,
with centuries of history, are waiting to be discovered in vineyards and
olive groves, valleys and mountain slopes.
Lasithi: Surrounded by the three seas, Cretan, Libyan and Carpathian, the
eastern edge of Crete is characterized by unique natural diversity and intense contrasts that create a charming setting.
Famous tourist resorts and luxurious tourist complexes combine perfectly with destinations full of Cretan authenticity, untouched by tourism
The picturesque area of Agios Nikolaos is the capital of the county
and is one of the most cosmopolitan areas of the island. The harbor is
in the center of the city, which is attached to Voulismeni, a small salt
lake with a depth of only 64 meters. The
archaeological and folk museums
of the city are open to all and offer a journey through time. The city
itself is a base for the exploration of interesting destinations, such
as, Ierapetra, the most southern city of Europe, with the famous
Venetian castle and the Turkish quarters, as well as, the fantastic palm
forest of Vai. Located 94 kilometers northeast of the Agios Nikolaos,
it is
the only palm forest in Europe with over 5,000 palm trees,
in an area of approximately 250 hectares. Last, don’t miss out on the
opportunity to have fun in a traditional Cretan festival. where dancing
to the accompaniment of the lyra and feasting on exquisite Lasithian
cuisine take central stage. An example of such a festival is that of
Agios Antonios on January 17, in the village of Zakros, on the eastside
of the county.
