Crete

650 miles of coastline, dramatic mountainous landscapes and 4,000 years of history – a holiday to Crete offers something to suit every taste.

Biggest Greek island

The largest of the Greek Isles, Crete is also the fifth biggest island in the entire Mediterranean. And, it barely misses out on being the fourth largest -- an honour that belongs to Corsica – by only a few acres. So, there’s plenty of ground to cover and so much to see on Crete – including miles of sandy beaches, dramatic mountain scenery and tonnes of historical sites, such as the ruins of the Palace at Knossos.

A Beach for everyone

With its 650 miles of coastline, it’s no wonder that Crete features a spectrum of beaches that virtually guarantees something to suit every taste. For instance, the swathes of sand in Heraklion are well-suited to those who like to party the night away and like to retire to the beach for a day of rest and getting ready for another evening ahead. The 12-kilometre-plus stretches of sand in Rethymnon, on the other hand, provide the perfect playgrounds for families. And, the beaches in Lassithi – near to the sophisticated towns of Agios Nikolaos and Elounda – are favourites with a set who likes to mix their sunbathing with shopping in chic boutiques and luxurious lunches in the square. Finally, Chania boasts several Blue Flag beaches, interspersed with a charming old town.

Historical Isle

With a history that dates back about 4,000 years, it’s no wonder that Crete features many ancient sites to visit. Some people even believe that western civilisation, itself, began in Crete. A claim that you can explore by visiting the ruins of the Palace of Knossos where you can check out evidence of the advanced Minoan culture.