5 Reasons to Visit Crete this Summer

Crete is mini-Greece meaning that all we love and cherish about Greece is found in Crete, only in a smaller version. No matter how you are travelling, either with friends, family or your better half, Crete will captivate your soul and put a spell on you immediately. Be it its long and rich cultural background, its je ne sais pas charm, its warm and friendly people or the island’s glorious sun-kissed bays, shimmering waters and endless list of things to do and sights to visit. Whatever the reason, Crete has been and will continue to be one of the top all-year-round holiday destinations in the world!

Rich History

Crete is where the ancient Minoan civilisation and culture was born and thrived. The impressive Palace of Knossos is one of the most visited sites in Greece and Europe as it symbolises the glorious past of Greece. Apart from the Palace of Knossos, Crete resembles an open-air museum which showcases infinite ancient ruins, soaring castles, impressive temples as well as old picturesque harbours and fascinating architecture that transport you to ancient times.

Old Towns

What especially marks Crete as an amazing tourist destination is its unique culture, which seems to remain untouched by time. Crete fuses the old and new so perfectly, that it is hard to escape its magical grip. Crete is home to numerous old towns, where although the buildings and stoned alleys seem to have been taken out of a medieval scene. They are vibrant and bustling with life luring the crowds in to lose themselves within their cobblestoned alleys. One of the finest and most charismatic is Chania’s Old Town, whereby its narrow-winding streets are filled with treasures and surprises.

Cretan Cuisine

Food is part of the Cretans mentality, philosophy and way of life. Food to them is not just numerous dishes placed on a table, but rather a true passion. All traditional dishes are made with love, adding to its delicious taste. What’s more, all dishes are made using natural ingredients like olive oil, fresh greens and herbs taken from the fields of the island. Dining is a ritual, where families gather around the table to socialise and indulge in the flavoured dishes.

Nature

The Samaria Gorge National Park is all the reason you need to hop on a plane headed for Crete. In fact, the 10-mile natural park, which overflows with natural beauties, is a sight for sore eyes. If heaven was on earth, Samara Gorge would be it! the park overflows with wonderful waterfalls, rare flora and fauna, mountains as well as unique wild animals.

Sun-Kissed Bays

The island is surrounded by a fabulous diversity of bays and beaches, making your summer holiday exquisite! Each bay offers something different that you are bound to find the exact beach for you, ranging from small isolated coves to bustling spots. Elafonissi and Balos Lagoon should be top of your Beach List, as both seem to be taken out of a paradise-like postcard.

Where to Stay? None other than the recently renovated Louis Creta Princess Aquapark & Spa!