Home to Europe's first known civilisation, the Minoans, evidence of its ancient occupants was unearthed in the early twentieth century revealing remains of a hugely sophisticated society. More recently, the island has been occupied by the Romans and the Venetians, whose architectural heritage remains elegantly evident in Rethymnon and Chania. A period of oppression by the Ottoman Turks from 1669 to 1898 encouraged a strong independence movement which led finally to the integration of Crete as part of Greece in 1913. The island was again occupied from 1941 to 1945 by the German forces during World War II.

Crete is an island rich in scenic beauty too, with soaring mountains, scenic gorges, spectacular coastlines, vibrant spring flowers and aromatic herbs that attract botanists from around the world, and fertile valleys of olive, orange and lemon groves. Its position between North Africa and the Greek mainland also makes it a key staging post for migrating birds in spring and autumn, attracting a wide range of species.

For those wishing to do very little, Crete's superb climate, wonderful beaches, hospitable people and excellent range of tavernas and traditional kafenions never fail to delight. For those wanting a more active holiday there are a host of activities available. Walkers are spoilt for choice with several excellent long distance trails including the spectacular 18 km Samaria Gorge and a host of shorter footpaths best explored in spring when the floral display is stunning. The glorious light makes it a superb destination for artists too, and the flora and fauna is a wonderful source of inspiration. Those in search of history and culture will not be disappointed either, with the islands wealth of historic buildings, archaeological remains and excellent museums.

The size and geological makeup of the island provides diverse and contrasting scenery that changes dramatically from east to west and north to south. To give you more insight into what different parts of the island offer and to help you choose a location, to best suit your interests, we describe here in more detail what each area offers.

Western Crete

The west of Crete offers a wealth of contrasts for the visitor. A wild coastline along the western coast offers the breathtakingly beautiful beaches of Falasarna and Elafonisi where gorgeous turquoise water is redolent of the Caribbean. The magnificent White Mountains offer fantastic opportunities for walkers, particularly the Samaria Gorge, which meanders 18 kilometres down a tortuous trail to the pretty resort of Agia Roumeli where a dip offers rich reward for the walkers' efforts! The natural freshwater lake of Kournas provides a picturesque venue for lunch or a swim. Elsewhere, the Venetian-influenced towns of Chania and Rethymnon offer quaint, narrow streets as well as characterful harbours lined with tavernas and cafes serving excellent local cuisine.

Central Crete

The central region of Crete is notable for its Minoan remains, particularly at the spectacular palace of Knossos, which dates from around 1900 BC, but also at the ruins at Phaestos and Gortys. It is worth visiting Heraklion, too, to view its Venetian fortress and museums, most notably the Archaeological Museum that offers a fascinating insight into the Minoan culture. And the only painting held in Crete by El Greco, Crete's most famous son, is also housed in Heraklion at the Historical Museum. Further Minoan remains can be seen in the beautifully restored hill village of Archanes that's also famous for its wine producing vineyards situated all round the village. The wonderful landscape of the Lassithi Plateau, situated high amongst the Dikti Mountains and famed for its stone windmills and the Diktean Cave, reputed to be the birthplace of Zeus, makes a cool retreat from the coast in high summer.

Eastern Crete

The east of the island is diverse in itself. The far eastern side rewards the relatively long transfer from Heraklion Airport with a dramatic, unspoilt coastline, wild, rugged mountainous scenery and villages virtually untouched by the passage of time. It is overwhelmingly a region to escape the trappings of modern tourism. The closer east, (situated about an hour from Heraklion Airport) offers the cosmopolitan life of the harbour town of Agios Nikolaos, the relaxing and beautiful bay of Elounda, the fortified island of Spinalonga, the pretty seaside village of Plaka and the tiny town of Kritsa famed for its Cretan crafts and the Byzantine church of Panagia Kera, known throughout Crete for its well-preserved frescoes that date from the 14th centuries.

Southern Crete

The south of the island, a place to really get back to nature, is a region of magnificent gorges that flow through the Cretan hills to the sea, timeless mountain villages, unspoilt coastlines, pretty resorts, attractive coves and quiet bays nestling by the clear blue waters of the beautiful Libyan sea. The south makes a wonderful base both for a relaxing, "get-away-from-it-all" holiday as well as an ideal destination for those who like to explore beautiful coastal paths and wonderful hill trails and the Cretan landscape on foot.

Our Crete Villas

Our studios, hotels, apartments, houses and villas in Crete are dotted throughout the island and offer a choice of styles, locations and budgets for whichever holiday you prefer. Our resident expert, Jane Freeman, knows all the properties first hand and is on hand to offer impartial advice and to share her decade or more of experience of this wonderful island with you.

Crete Links

Below are some links which may be useful in finding out more about your holiday to Crete