Eastern Crete is the driest area of the island although it still has a lot of olive trees planted there. The area around Agios Nikolaos and Mirambello bay has become a major tourist area, but a lot of the eastern end of the island remains untouched by modern living – in fact it is possibly the least spoilt and least developed area of the island. Towards the centre of the island is very important architecturally and is home to the Minoan palace of Knossos.

Heraklion (Irákleio) is the commercial capital and cultural hob of the island. A modern, cosmopolitan city, Heraklion is steeped in history and variety. There is a colourful harbour where fishermen still bring in their catch, which is overlooked by a splendid Venetian fortress – a reminder of the city’s heyday. In the centre, Plateía Venizélos is lined with cafes clustering around the central fountain, and a variety of interesting shops and tavernas hug the surrounding streets. There are a number of churches, museums and ruins to be explored.

Villas to Go recommended beaches

Kato Gouves / Finikas – A pretty sandy beach 20km east of Heraklion awarded blue flag for its clean water, golden sand and good facilities.

Vái – on the north eastern tip of Crete, backed by a unique date palm tree forest. Miles of soft white sand in a tropical atmosphere.

Kalamaki – A 2.5km stretch of golden sand surrounded by cliffs which avoids the crowds even in the height of the season. Excellent for swimming.

Matala – Made famous in the 1960s when hippies took up home in the rock caves here. A beautiful sand and shingle beach which is popular in the height of the season. Several shops and restaurants in the village behind the beach.

Take time to go…

Take a boat trip out to Spinalonga and view the ruined Venetian Fortress and former leper colony.

Take a hike around the island – visit the famous Samaria Gorge and take in the breathtaking scenery, or try one of the other numerous gorges on the island.

Take in a shore-side taverna and feast on freshly caught fish, the finest Mediterranean vegetables and locally produced wine while the sun goes down.

Visit Heraklion’s Art Festival in July/August for folk music, ballet and traditional Greek dramas on the roof of the Koules Fort, or take in a movie at one of the outdoor venues in town.

Further afield…

To King Minas’ Palace at Knossos where Theseus found his way through the labyrinth to slay The Minotaur, a legendary beast half-man and half-bull.

Visit Rethymnon’s Renaissance Festival in July/August for folk music and traditional Greek dramas or try the Wine Festival in the public gardens – a riot of music, dancing and sampling the local brew!

Cruise along the western coastline on a pirate ship – view caves, fish and take a swim. Or go in search of dolphins… stopping for a spot of lunch along the way. Cruises depart from Rethymnon harbour.

Take a hike around the island – visit the famous Samaria Gorge and take in the breathtaking scenery, or try one of the other numerous gorges on the island.