Ancient mythology and natural beauty
Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, is a beautiful myriad of stunning beaches, pretty harbours and quaint tavernas, mixed with historic architecture, impressive gorges, majestic mountains, and scenic valleys. Secret villages and hamlets showcase the authentic side of the island, while Heraklion is the perfect place if you are looking for vibrant nightlife.
An abundance of nature reserves offer the chance to see some of Crete’s exquisite wildlife and flora, where you’ll find the scent of lemon and orange groves floating through the air. If you fancy some action, there are plenty of water parks all over the island, including Watercity Water Park in Kokkini Hani and Hersonisson’s Acqua Plus Water Park. Here you can try a range of exhilarating rides and slides, with something for all ages. The spectacular White Mountains take centre stage of the island and provide ample opportunity for scenic hikes or a drive amidst astonishing landscapes, while Heraklion, the island’s capital offers everything from history, architecture and culture, to designer shopping and fine Cretan dining.
Crete is both family-friendly and sophisticated with a true air of luxury mixed with authentic Greek charm. Elounda and Aghios Nikolaos ooze luxury and class blended with traditional Greek charisma. Picture perfect Chania is the perfect place to unwind among the tavernas and quaint piazzas which are dotted throughout the cobbled streets. The castle perches overlooking the town, while the golden sandy beach provides the ideal spot to ease you into holiday mode. It’s the ideal holiday getaway for families and couples with endless palm lined beaches edged with crystal waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling.
Culture vultures will embrace the wealth of Minoan legend and ancient history which is displayed in Crete’s inspiring palaces and impressive architectural delights. The legend of the Minotaur descends from Crete, which is the birthplace of Zeus, the father of the Greek Gods, and today history is portrayed in its poetry and music. A Venetian influenced waterfront headlines in Heraklion, which also features chic cafés and bars, alongside world famous museums and Mediterranean architecture. An authentic Greek breakfast known as Bougatsa is not to be missed, as well as Dakos rusks which are Crete-style pizza. Each village is said to have its own speciality dish, which can be washed down with fine wines from the island on your luxury holidays to Crete.
Every one of our hotels is handpicked and personally visited by our team
With so much to do family holidays in Crete are becoming increasingly popular. Spend your days relaxing on the warm sands of the beach, take a fun family trip to the water parks or visit historic and cultural sites and towns.
Flight time from the UK to Crete is around 4 hours.
The southernmost Greek island, Crete’s summers are something special. The temperatures are beach-worthy by April, climbing steadily throughout summer and peaking in July and August, when highs of 35°C are possible. Luckily, the island is prone to some cooling winds during summer that stop things getting too hot and sticky.
Currently visas are not required for UK citizens travelling to Greece.
In Greece, a service charge will be included in the bill at restaurants and bars. Much like the UK, an additional tip is not required, although is appreciated for particularly good service. It is common to round off the amount when paying cash, particularly with wait staff and taxi drivers.
The official language of Greece is Greek. English is widely spoken, too, so getting by is easy.
I really recommend giving island-hopping a go. I combined Mykonos, Santorini and Crete in one trip - so easy to do, and it was fantastic to be able to experience three such different islands in one holiday.
We've been finding people their own slice of paradise for 50 years, and like to think we're pretty good at it.
.ImageUrl)
