You will find Episkopi, a traditional Cretan village in a beguiling natural setting, about eighteen kilometers southeast of the Cretan capital Heraklion. It sits about 350 above sea level on a hill surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Alongside herding, viticulture and olive growing are the mai
Mochos is a picturesque hamlet twelve kilometers from Malia on the way to the Lasithi Plateau. It is about 40 kilometers from Heraklion, Crete’s capital, and easily accessible by car. Favored by tourists for its rural appeal, Mochos has plenty to offer to justify a day trip. Here are some of the m
If you want to understand the true spirit of Crete, you must visit a local village. When in the Hersonissos regional unit, Avdou may be the best destination. It has pure rural character, sublime hospitality – aptly defined by the locals “philoxenia” – and even surprises for the most
Dia, also pronounced Ntia by locals, is a rather small uninhabited island off the northern coast of Crete. Located about 7 nautical miles (approximately 13km) north of the city of Heraklion, Dia is part of the community of Elia and administratively belongs to the Municipality of Hersonissos. Its max
Malia is Crete’s tourism central, a veritable Ft. Lauderdale of beach activity, excellent hotels, and incalculable activities for all ages. Situated on the Cretan Sea about 35km east of Heraklion, the town’s name means “flat area,” which is appropriate since the former fishing village sits o
Enjoy a fun trip with the kids to the Mediterranean seabed and learn about the unique and extraordinary species that swim with you in the Greek seas. Cretaquarium – Thalassocosmos is one of the most important aquariums in Europe that attracts thousands of visitors every year. Plus, it is only
Located on a low, rounded hill called Kephala, at a distance of about 6km to the south of Heraklion, the Minoan Palace of Knossos is the largest archaeological site ever discovered on Crete. Being the administrative and ceremonial center of the Minoan civilization, one of the oldest ones and the fir
According to historians and archaeologists who have thoroughly studied the ancient civilization that flourished in Crete, if you were to imagine Crete as a human being, Eleutherna would be its heart. Some 30km southeast of the city of Rethymnon and very near to the great convent of Arcadi, situated
One of the most beautiful must-see attractions of Crete, Samaria gorge is the island’s one and only Natural Park, offering a memorable hiking experience to thousands of visitors every year. If you want to cross it, you need to book a guided tour and wake up very early in the morning, as you will n
A place made of stone and wind, a living museum of Cretan architecture and tradition, a trip to the past, where pristine nature prevails. Discover the secret beauties of Mirabello, a serene mountainous region with scattered traditional villages and old windmills just a breath away from the busy reso
