Crete, Greece's Extraordinary Package of Beaches, Nature & History

[Iberostar Hotels & Resorts]

With more than 8,000 square kilometers of a land full of contrasts and wealth, a country with its own identity, famous for its myths, legends and traditions, Crete, Greece’s largest island, smells of earth and sun, olive trees and fresh vegetables, rakı and sea.

According to Greek mythology, Rhea hid Zeus on Mount Ida. When Zeus kidnapped Europa, he took her to Crete and three children were born from their marriage. One of them was Minos, whose wife gave birth to the Minotaur which was kept in the Labyrinth. Theseus killed the Minotaur and escaped the Labyrinth aided by Ariadne, daughter of King Minos.

Legends aside, if you tug on Ariadne’s ball of thread you can encounter a fascinating island. Fairytale beaches such as Balos, one of Crete’s most beautiful beaches, with fine white sand and crystal waters; Elafonisi (or Elafonissos) is a small islet connected to the island of Crete by a shallow reef that can be crossed at low tide; Preveli beach, where the Kourtaliotis River flows into the sea; and Malata beach, surrounded by cliffs, making it a private spot.

Ancient ruins and relics such as the Minoan palaces of Knossos (above) and Phaistos, the ancient Gortyn, the picturesque towns of Chania, Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos and Rethymno, not forgetting Samaria Gorge, the longest canyon in Europe, at 16 km.

We can't forget to mention the exquisite Cretian gastronomy, whose star ingredient is olive oil. It's all about fresh, genuinely Mediterranean dishes which can be enjoyed in restaurants and bars.

Crete is undoubtedly a unique island, a different destination in which to lose yourself, perfect for discovering the roots of our history and the essence of Greek culture. 

Don’t miss: Balos beach and its lagoon, one of Crete’s most photographed destinations. Its incredible turquoise waters and beautiful and exotic nature make it one of the top destinations of tourists, a place that you cannot miss when you visit the island.

 

“IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts group has 2 hotels on the island of Crete, with the option of all-inclusive accommodation. These hotels offer visitors everything they are looking for during their vacation on this Greek island.”

from our blog Passport To...