the Minoan era, as well as Roman settlements, Byzantine churches, Venetian ports and fortresses and Ottoman mosques and minarets. Here’s your chance to gaze at faraway mountains, while sunbathing on a white-sand beach next to a turquoise sea. Crete has gorgeous landscapes with constantly changing views. Rolling hills of olive groves, vineyards and patchwork farmland make up most of the inland, while the imposing mountains divide the island from north to south and the deep-blue Mediterranean water is ever-present in the distance. There’s a saying in Greece: “Go to Santorini to fall in love, to Mykonos to party and to Crete to eat!”The foods of Crete are the cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet. Fresh vegetables, ripe fruits, wild greens, thick yoghurt, freshly caught fish and, of course, lots and lots of olive oil are essential ingredients to try when visiting Crete. However, no meal in Crete is complete without a glass of local wine from indigenous grapes such as vidiano or liatiko. Crete has been part of Greece for just over 100 years, so Cretan traditions are different to those of other Greek islands. Attend a panigiri (celebration of a patron saint) to experience the best of Cretan traditions. You’ll hear the sounds of the Cretan lyra and laouto, follow the steps of folk dances that are only performed on Crete, eat a traditional Cretan feast and see traditional costumes with incredible embroidery detailing. And of course, you’ll experience that famous Cretan hospitality. In fact they have a word for it, philoxenia (“friend to the stranger”). Cretans believe it is their moral obligation to take care of strangers, so try to mingle with local people and you’ll experience this welcome for yourself. Chania Town appeals on many levels. Its old town is full of ancient architecture, including historical Venetian mansions and Turkish hammams. Its covered market is one of the best places to buy local produce anywhere in Greece. And its harbour area has a vibrant cosmopolitan nightlife. The region is also blessed with many fine beaches including the Blue Flag beauties in Agioi Apostoloi and Gerani to the chic bar-lined strip in Agia Marina. Chania Town Ancient wall paintings at Knossos credit: Pecold/Shutterstock.com Samaria Gorge, Northwest Crete Falasarna beach, Chania Chania harbourside 6
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