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Laid-back luxury: a holiday in Crete

How to introduce you to Crete? As a lush, colourful and constantly surprising landscape that never leaves you far from the refreshing azure of the Mediterranean Sea? As one of the most beautiful of all the Greek islands? As a destination that provides everything you need for a lively and upbeat holiday? We mustn’t forget the island’s rich history on which the beautiful towns and cities lay their foundations. Perhaps, with its ever-increasing popularity, we should just say that Crete is the holiday destination that needs no introduction! When you are looking for a luxurious and laid-back location for your well-earned break, Crete should be top of your list; so sit back, relax and join us as we explain why… The views You’ll never get bored of gazing out over the diverse landscape Crete provides. Mountains draw an awe-inspiring border around lush plains, while the sea edges this 60 km-wide island with invitingly sparkling waters. When your idea of a holiday requires no less than the most stunning beaches, blue skies and even bluer sea, Crete is that dream come true. Plaka The contrast While the popular resort locations along the north coast provide somewhere to indulge your party spirit, the smaller villages and beaches in the lower coast of Crete offer a much more relaxed atmosphere. Inland, a more traditional way of life pervades, and a wealth of history awaits. Enjoy Crete’s bustling metropolitan cities and explore its laid-back hillside villages; whatever your mood, the island has something for you. The accommodation While Crete more than caters to visitors with its hotels, don’t rule out other, more luxurious options. A pick from Villa Plus, for example, could be ideal, as villas typically include a private pool, a pool table, table tennis, a BBQ and a maid and linen service, along with many more features to ensure your trip is fun and hassle-free. Villa Plus The history and mythology As you explore the island you’ll see the remains of both Roman and Turkish architecture, as well as ancient Minoan ruins dotted around the island. The lake of Agios Nikolaos, or Lake Voulismeni, is bottomless according to legend, while Crete is entwined with myths of minotaurs and labyrinths, helped along by the Minoan ruins at Knossos, where the palace is made up of hundreds of interconnected chambers. The food and drink Cretan food is a festival for the senses, with salads and local vegetables vying for your attention with Cretan cheeses, fresh seafood and delightful little dishes you just have to try – dakos (a traditional dried bread dish), fasolakia (fresh beans cooked with tomato and olive oil) and dolmades (rice and meat-stuffed grape leaves) are just a few of the island’s gems. Greek salad An array of vineyards cover the region beyond Sitia in western Crete, and are well-worth a visit if you fancy exploring new, indulgent tastes while you’re away.

Paul Johnson

Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxury Travel Blog and has worked in the travel industry for more than 30 years. He is Winner of the Innovations in Travel ‘Best Travel Influencer’ Award from WIRED magazine. In addition to other awards, the blog has also been voted “one of the world’s best travel blogs” and “best for luxury” by The Daily Telegraph.

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3 Comments

  1. While you are on Crete you should make sure you visit the ancient ruins of Knossos, it is one of the oldest ruins ever found and it is from the Minoan people. The place is very well preserved and you can walk about by yourself or take a guided tour of the place. I liked it a lot but I am an ancient archeological buff.

  2. What is not to love about the gorgeous island of Crete! Amazing beaches, stunning views, delicious food and of course, the famous unsurpassed Cretan hospitality :)

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