Crete and the Mediterranean climate favor outdoor activities of all sorts. Water sports above and below sea level are ranked at the top of preferences, like scuba diving, water skiing, wind surfing, snorkeling, paddle board, jet skiing and so much more. However, Crete’s geomorphological features are equally fascinating and provide the ideal environment for a wide range of terrain activities. Don’t miss out on a 6-8 hour hike down the trail of the famous Samaria Gorge found between the White Mountains. It is the longest gorge in Europe (16klm) and one of the most impressive ones in Greece. Mountain biking, horse riding, jeep safari tours, cave exploring are also exciting options for nature adventurers!
Featuring some of the best beaches in the world, Crete is among the most popular summer vacation destinations. Especially Chania region has famous beaches such as Elafonissi (64km), Balos (42km) and Falassarna (42km), but also wonderful resort villages with amazing beaches stretching for kilometers, like Platanias and Agia Marina. Crete is synonymous with marvelous beaches, enjoyable swimming in clear blue water and relaxation by the sea in places you will dream of for years.
The Minoan Civilization, the first organized civilization in Europe, was born in Crete 5,500 thousand years ago. Since then, the island met the Ancient Greeks, the Romans, the Byzantines, the Venetians, and the Ottomans, until its modern heyday as the largest Greek island. With outstanding monuments of world culture such as the majestic Minoan Palace of Knossos (148km) and the photogenic Old Venetian Port of Chania (11km), the one-of-a-kind history of Crete is evident in every corner of the island.
