With all of us dreaming about some summer sun, why not investigate the island of Crete as the basis for your summer adventure? Amazing food, stunning beaches, historic towns and gorgeous sunshine awaits! Olympic Holidays, have some tips on where, why and when to visit this idyllic island location.
When to go…In short – as soon as we’re allowed! Weather in the north of Crete is typically Mediterranean, in the south it’s almost subtropical. Spring comes early in March/April and summers are hot and dry with strong sea breezes. July & August are the hottest!
Why Crete…Alongside gorgeous sandy beaches and picturesque harbours, Crete is an island of impressive mountains and long, deep gorges. Hike through Samaria Gorge National Park to discover the cave where, according to legend, Zeus was born. Or walk within a deep fissure of rock from Omalso to Aghia Roumeli, about 11 miles – an exciting challenge for experienced walkers. Another tempting option is the lush landscape of Richtis Gorge – richly forested, cool and green, with a welcoming waterfall to soothe tired feet and the chance to swim from the lovely pebble beach as your reward.
Crete is the birthplace of the Minoans, who ruled 4,000 years ago, therefore no visit to the island is complete without a visit to the Palace of Knossos, south of the capital Heraklion. Heraklion also has a world-class archaeological museum which is a ‘must-see’ for heritage buffs who will be equally be fascinated by the Ottoman, Minoan and Roman influences on Chania, a city of Venetian architecture and a 14th century harbour. How about a gourmet trail into the countryside? Find rural tavernas which produce their own cheese, meat and olive oil and sample village recipes before taking home some honey, flavoured by mountain herbs.
There are also several vineyards to visit with plenty of opportunities to sample the produce, perhaps accompanied by a freshly prepared lunch. Many wineries also have olive groves alongside the vines, making and bottling their own oils. The regions of Archanes and Peza, around Heraklion, are particularly blessed with fertility and produce renowned grape varieties including liatiko, vilana, vidiano, thrapsathiri, malvasia, athiri, kotsifali and mandilaria.
Olympic Holidays is offering 7 nights at the 4* Sunset Hotel Apartments, Bali, Crete from £369 per person based on 2 people travelling. The package includes 7 nights’ Half Board accommodation in a Standard Apartmentwith return flights to London Luton airport. Departures are available on 29th September 2021, this includes 38% saving (£235pp).
