In the footsteps of Zorba the Greek...

Last August, my family and I decided to explore the inspiring Island of Crete. Since last summer, I have seen a growing trend for more and more people wanting to holiday on this unique island, part of Greece, but still with its very own ‘Cretan identity’.

Crete is the largest island in Greece, and the fifth largest one in the Mediterranean Sea. When friends told us of Crete’s glorious beaches and beach clubs, impressive mountain ranges (still snow topped in the middle of August), its steep gorges (such as the famous Samaria Gorge) and the island’s rich gastronomic culture and history, we couldn't’t resist.

After an early morning, 4 hour flight we landed in Chania, the island’s largest airport, situated in the North West. We swiftly picked up our rental car to be on our way to our private villa, located a mere 30 minutes from Chania Airport. We passed Souda Bay, famous for its large British War Cemetery, which is certainly worth a visit.

A steep, winding road led us past picturesque beach towns like Kalyves and Almyrida up to our little village called Plakas, offering unforgettable views and sunsets over Souda Bay.

The highlight of our lovely, modern villa was our own pool, which was very popular in temperatures reaching high thirties. A pleasant breeze, however, made our holiday very bearable.

A must-do is a visit (or two) to the historic city of Chania. We wandered around the bustling harbour with its many trendy bars and restaurant and explored the Old Town’s maze-like alleys with beautiful Venetian mansions, fountains, elaborate churches and even a Synagogue! Crete’s historic former capital is still steeped in Minoan, Venetian, Ottoman and Greek history – a paradise for anyone interested in Crete’s rich history.

Chania is a paradise for food and wine lovers, too. We discovered the romantic Tholos Restaurant, hidden away in one of the alleyways with live music and delicious Cretan specialities and genuine hospitality.

We were told that when in Chania, you must climb up to the remnant city walls in time for a spectacular sunset! And so we did and we were not disappointed.

Back in our little village a plethora of restaurants offered superb, yet rustic, Cretan delicacies, accompanied by live music and Greek dancing.

My daughter loved spending her time sunbathing in great beach clubs, with comfy sun loungers, umbrellas and trendy music – all free, as long as you purchased some drinks. Georgioupolis (on the way to historic and bustling student town Rethymnon), Loutraki Beach (near Chania) and the beautiful Stavros Beach were our favourite hang outs. The small village of Stavros became famous when the movie ‘Zorba the Greek’ was filmed here. If you are a nature lover, a day trip to nearby Lake Kournas with its many pedalo boats is a must. It is the only fresh water lake in Crete with clear, invigorating waters inviting you for a refreshing swim. On shore, you can see little terrapins in tanks, an attraction in one of the popular tavernas there. I am certain that families with children will find a vast amount of activities on offer on this versatile island – from visits to cool waterparks to donkey and horse riding through large olive farms to a visit to a ‘fish spa’ or one of the many beautiful shallow beaches, ideal for smaller children. Numerous watersports activities, glass bottom boats and boat trips to countless little islands for snorkelling are available at most larger beaches, too. The famous ‘Aquaworld Aquarium’ near Chersonissos will keep the whole family entertained.

For more lovely places to stay, to see and explore, you can also fly into the capital’s airport of Heraklion. This airport serves all the Eastern resorts of Crete.

Ágios Nikólaos is a lovely, small cosmopolitan town and resort, and its close neighbour Eloúnda is the home of luxury hotel and villa complexes, and the gateway to the mysterious islet of Spinalónga.

Not to forget the party town of Malia which attracts many young people from all over Europe.

After a couple of wonderfully hot, sunny and very relaxing weeks on this great island, we finally headed back to Chania for our evening flight home.

I can highly recommend a (family) holiday to Crete which really offers the perfect resort for everyone.

In short, Crete really has it all! And I am sure we will be back soon.

Get in touch with me for more detailed information and recommendations and to book your personalised holiday, tailored to your individual requirements – to make it a trip to remember.

T: 01992 877 490 or email me: uli.williams@travelcounsellors.com