Crete

The largest of the Greek islands, Crete’s natural beauty is equalled only by the richness of its history and the freshness of its bountiful cuisine.

If you want to experience Crete at its most beautiful and traditional then the western half is a good place to start. Historic pastel-coloured houses rim the waterfront promenade of Chania’s Venetian harbour, the winding streets behind filled with some of the island’s best restaurants. Hikers come from all over the world to trek the grand Samaria Gorge, one of the longest in Europe, while pink-cream sands are on offer at the beaches of Elafonisi and Falasarna.

In the east, Elounda retains a charming down-to-earth feel, its harbour lined with attractive shops, bars and tavernas. South of Elounda is Agios Nikolaos, one of the loveliest towns in Crete, helped in no small part by its show-stopping setting on Mirabello Bay. Boats depart from both to Spinalonga, the Venetian fortress turned leper colony that forms the backdrop to the award-winning book, The Island. Beyond the bay, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and Minoan Palace of Knossos provide fascinating windows into Crete’s ancient past, while the vineyards of Iraklio produce about 70% of Crete’s ever-improving wine.