We're creating a holiday compass for you in summer Crete with 20 unique experiences for every mood, although of course we could go on and on!
From the endless dreamy beaches and the doll-like old towns to the castles, palm groves and unique archaeological sites, the largest island of Greece is big in everything and offers everything you could ask for. Unforgettable flavors, safaris in villages forgotten by time, the luxury of isolation on a beach but also high-level services in famous resorts... We've created a vacation compass for you in summer Crete with 20 unique experiences for every mood, although of course we could go on and on!
#1 Agiofarango: a good dive is worth the effort
To swim at the beautiful pebble beach south of Heraklion (80 km from the city), you will reach the end of the road, take food, water and shade (although the high rocks "do the job") and follow the path. Twenty minutes to half an hour will pass until you see the sea, but without difficulty and with some interest: you will pass by the caves where ascetics lived and by the church of Agios Antonios with the small well, hence the "Saints' Gorge". With properly calculated supplies and a sleeping bag, it is also suitable for overnight stays. On weekends it is crowded and not worth the effort.
#2 Morning walk in Chania
No matter how many times you have walked in Chania, it is not enough. A walk through the narrow streets of the Old Town and the Venetian Harbor hides treasures, which multiply year after year. A good idea might be to move around the city in the morning, like the locals. Start with a warm bougatsa with mizithra, sugar and cinnamon from "Iordani" (2821088855) and continue for coffee, soda or the first tsikoudia of the day under the shady plane trees of 1821 Square (Splantzia) at the "Bourbakis" cafe. Alternatively, for views and photos with the Lighthouse in the background, look for Neorio Moros, the wonderful multi-purpose venue of the Chania Sailing Club.
#3 The Aspros Potamos experience
One kilometer away from the sea and Makry Gialos, are the stone-built houses of Aspros Potamos, built about 300 years ago, according to the traditional architecture of the area, and gently renovated in 2011. Staying here is an experience unlike any other. The operation of the guesthouse relies exclusively on alternative forms of energy. Some lights and appliances operate thanks to the guesthouse's photovoltaic system, while the main lighting of the houses is done with paraffin lamps and candles. There are no sockets in the houses. Visitors can charge any electrical device in the reception area, which also operates a library and has wi-fi. Back to the past!
#4 Loutro: an island within an island
With Cycladic color and no cars, the tiny Loutro in Sfakia welcomes its visitors, where you can reach it either by the ferry (from Chora Sfakia) or on foot, following the European path E4. Here, the daily routine includes walking, swimming and excellent food, which is why it is worth staying overnight - a good and affordable choice is the renovated rooms "Sofia" (2825091354). At noon, the "Blue House " (2825091035) serves the most delicious mom-made stews, while in the evenings an unforgettable meat-eating experience awaits you at the tavern "Stratis" (2825091348), run by Sifis and all the meat is his own.
#5 CRETAquarium for young and old
At CRETAquarium you will come for the children and you will be more impressed by them, so you can also come independently. You will see groupers, scorpionfish, groupers, sea bass, octopus, lobsters, loggerhead turtles and bull sharks, which are somewhat frightening in appearance. Yes, with all of the above we share the Mediterranean, the diversity of which is inexhaustible. Each tank is accompanied by signs with the species it hosts, while there is also the option of an audio or personal tour. Come early to avoid the crowds and stock up on snacks from the street, as the options around you will not excite you.
