Crete

Crete is an island of remarkable contrasts and extraordinary richness. It’s the birthplace of one of Europe’s oldest civilisations — the Minoans — and sites like the Palace of Knossos near Heraklion offer a genuinely fascinating window into a world 4,000 years old. Yet Crete is also brilliantly modern: its cities are lively, its food scene is outstanding and its beaches range from the famous pink sands of Elafonissi to the secluded coves of the east.

Chania on the north-west coast is many travellers’ favourite base — a Venetian harbour town of charming alleyways, excellent restaurants and easy access to some of the island’s best beaches. Rethymno offers similar Venetian character on a slightly quieter scale, while Heraklion serves as the island’s cosmopolitan capital. The Samaria Gorge in the White Mountains is Europe’s longest gorge and a spectacular day hike, rewarded with a cooling swim at the southern village of Agia Roumeli.

Cretan cuisine is among the best in the Mediterranean — celebrated for its simplicity and quality. Fresh dakos bread topped with tomatoes and mizithra cheese, grilled lamb, wild greens drizzled in local olive oil and the island’s own raki liqueur all form part of an authentic food experience that keeps visitors coming back. Crete’s wines, produced in the Peza and Dafnes appellations, are increasingly gaining international recognition.

Best visited from May to October, Crete suits families, food lovers, hikers and beach-seekers alike. It’s a destination with genuine depth — one that reveals more the longer you stay.