Crete is the largest island in Greece, and the fifth largest one in the Mediterranean Sea. Crete is a unique island with many different sceneries where you can admire the remnants of brilliant civilizations, explore glorious beaches, impressive mountainscapes, fertile valleys and steep gorges, and become part of the island’s rich gastronomic culture. Crete is, after all, a small universe teeming with beauties and treasures that you will probably need a lifetime to uncover!
Since Crete is a large island with too many highlights, we will focus on Agios Nikolaos and Elounda Peninsula which is on the Eastern part of the island. One location that is a must to be visited is Plaka, one of the most beautiful villages in Crete with views of the Spinalogka islet. Walk around the seaside village and then take the boat to the Spinaloga. Spinaloga was an island where lepers had been kept in isolation until 1957. Although it is small and known as the island of the outcasts, Spinalonga has a rather interesting story to tell.
Not far from Plaka, you will find Agios Nikolaos, a beautiful seaside city that you are advised to explore on foot! This walk will allow you to visit the most important sights of this city. Agios Nikolaos was built partly atop of ancient remains of bygone residents’ homes and blends arty, leisurely, sleepy and yet also bustling characteristics in one place.
Approximately 1 hour away, you will find Richtis Gorge which is a location with natural beauty. You start just outside the village Exo Mouliana and end at the Richtis beach, which is located between Aghios Nikolaos and Sitia. The route continues in a lush landscape in the river – an amazing scenery of east Crete.
Agios Nikolaos is ~1h drive from Heraklion airport by car.
Tip: when a local offers you raki, just drink it. You will not regret it! Plus, locals take their hospitality part very seriously!
Fun facts:
- Crete is where Zeus, King of the Greek gods, was born
- Crete used to be inhabited by dwarf mammoths
- Crete has healing air: based on Anzel Key’s survey that found that Cretans had the best all-round health in the world
- The majority of the island’s beaches hold the EU Blue Flag award for their unmatched standards of cleanliness
- Crete has two climates (Mediterranean and North African)
