crete is the largest of the greek islands, located in the southern part of the aegean sea. it possesses seven ports that provide links to piraeus and islands of the aegean, three airports, connected to most european cities via direct flights, as well as many organized marines for yacht owners.
birthplace of zeus, home of the first european civilization, the minoan, land of legends and wars, crete is a world of its own. the palace of king minos in knossos invites one to a journey in the majesty of an ancient kingdom, phaistos disc challenges archaeologists to unravel its meaning, while arkadi monastery reminds of cretan pride and revolutionary spirit. traditional music and songs, rooted back in antiquity, whisper like wind among landscapes of natural beauty, while local cuisine seduces one to an authentic gastronomic experience.
crete’s coastline includes some of the most famous beaches of the world, such as exotic balos and elafonissi, hippy matala and adventurous preveli. to those willing to go on a daily excursion to the tiny gaidouronissi island, the astonishing beach of chryssi (meaning golden in greek) promises an incomparable experience.
the inland is characterized by an imposing wild beauty. the majestic mountain of psiloritis, full of mysterious caves and snowy until june, the awesome gorge ha, where one can find the tallest waterfall in greece, and the renowned national park of samaria gorge, inviting one for an unforgettable walk through the gorge, create an ambiance of uniqueness.
crete’s diversity makes it the ideal destination for the lovers of outdoor sports. windsurfing, kite surfing, bungee jumping, sailing, skydiving, hiking, horse riding and canyoning coexist into an infinite mosaic of opportunities that makes no day similar to the previous one.
nightlife and traditional feasts reflect legendary cretan hospitality, while at the same time the island of spinalonga, renowned for its fortress and leper colony depicted in novels and television series, reminds of hard times.
crete is an inviting world of pride, wilderness and originality that once experienced is loved for a lifetime.
