Crete: An island steeped in history and blessed with beauty
Posted by: kirsty_wilson in Europe, tags: Beaches, Culture, Greece, Historical, Islands
As the home to one of the earliest civilizations in Europe, Crete is steeped in history and culture. And with a landscape as rich and diverse as it’s history, it’s easy to see why around 2 million people will enjoy a Crete holiday.
With so much on offer, the choice can be overwhelming so here is a rundown of the best things to do in Crete so all you have to do is book your flights and sort out that all important holiday wardrobe.
Discover an Ancient Civilisation
As the epicentre of the Minoan civilisation, Knossos palace has stood on this site at Heraklion since around 1900 B.C. and making it an integral part of Greek History.
It is also a central part of Greek Mythology: it played host to Theseus’s fight with the Minotaur and housed Daedelus – the master craftsman of the Labrynth – and Icaurus his ill fated, wax-winged son. The impact that this palace has had on Western story telling cannot be underestimated.
First discovered by Sir Arthur Evans in 1900, this is an historical site definitely worth discovering for yourself on your Crete holidays in 2012.
If you want to delve deeper into the history of Crete, then head to the Heraklion Archeological Museum where you will find one of the largest collections of artefacts in Greece, from the Neolithic to Roman periods. However, if Mythology is more your thing then head up the Dicte Mountain range in East Crete and seek out the Dikteon Cave. This is reputed to be the birthplace of Zeus, the God of Gods.
Natural beauty at Samaria Gorge
One of Greece’s oldest National Parks, Samaria Gorge stretches 16km along the south coastal region of Chania and has been protected since 1692. It is a haven for nature enthusiasts and hikers keen to glimpse Greece’s flora and fauna in all their glory.
Visitors should be prepared for a long and challenging walk but rest assured, the views are worth it and dinner afterwards will be well deserved. Many who made the journey said it was one of the best things about their Crete holidays in 2012. So lace up your walking boots and head over to www.west-crete.com/samaria-gorge.htm for details on how to get there.
Relax in idyllic surroundings at Elafonissi Beach
No trip to Greece would be complete without the obligatory time spent on the beach. And this one is a real treat. With turquoise blue seas, pink sands and breathtaking sunsets, Elafonissi has to be seen to be believed. Situated on the west coast of the island, the beach is around an hour from Chania but is well worth the drive and the perfect place to relax after taking in all that history and nature.
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