Crete is a very particular island. On one hand, there is the north coast -
facing the Aegean Archipelago - witch is over-developed and cosmopolitan, with the cities of Iraklion,
Hania, Rethimnon, Ayios Nikolaos and Sitia. On the other hand, there is the south coast of Crete witch
seems much more like the rest of the Greek islands. Here one may discover beyond the mountains, beautiful
beaches picturesque villages and hospital people. Crete is perhaps one of the few Mediterranean islands
that can endure theirselfs without tourism, thanks to an evolved agricoltural economy. |
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Crete is known
for the very long summers, that may last from May till the end of October.
In the west and south coasts of the island there are areas that
have not been spoilt, and are very hard to find. For example, some
mountains are barely touched. This can be a great challenge for those
who seek adventure. There are also quiet, less known areas towards the west
and south coasts close to the city of Hania. Here you can visit the Samarian
Gorge and the White Mountains. Toward the far east side, the area of Sitia lays.
In the middle of Crete, Minoan sites are gathered together at Ayia Triadha, Malia,
Festos, Gournes near Ayios Nikolaos, and Zakros. While, Rethimnon and Fragokastello
are famous for there Venetian forts, Kritsa for the Byzantine Churches, and Hania and
Rhethimnon for the Turkish and Venetian relics.
Central Crete, has not grown yet touristically, as a result of the lack of beaches.
This part is mostly mountainous, with an exception of Bali and Ayia Pelayia, that are growing
slowly into tourist resorts. Near the city of Iraklion you can find many resorts, at Hersonissos,
Ayia Galini, Matala, and Lendas. As we already mentioned, there are some fine archeological sites
toward the south,at Festos, Ayia Triadha, and Gortys. Iraklion, the island’s capital, is spoilt by
traffic and it is overcrowded. It’s not most the most attractive city of the island and although it
has some interesting places to visit (fine market, narrow old streets and impressive fortifications)
does not have that much to offer, except for the Archeological Museum and the ruins of the Knossos Palace.
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