“Crete’s mystery is extremely deep. Whoever sets foot on its shores immediately senses a warm beneficent force branching through his veins, senses his soul begin to grow.” - Nikos Kazantzakis
Crete is not just a tourist destination; it’s a land steeped in breathtaking beauty and ancient mystique.
Crete is many things, all at once. From a scientific point of you, it is so diverse in its landscapes, weather, geology, and plant and animal life that is considered to be a ‘continent within an island’. You can be standing on top of a 2,000-meter-high mountain and swimming in the crystal-clear Mediterranean on the same day.
Here, the pulse of the island beats in sync with nature, offering a refuge from the frenetic pace of modern life.
Why Crete?
Crete is a land where myth meets towering mountains and crystal-clear sea, where the ruins of ancient civilisations whisper tales of old amidst the backdrop of dramatic landscapes, traditional villages and bustling modern cities.
Dramatic Landscapes: From the snow-capped peaks of the Psiloritis and Lefka Ori mountains to the serene expanses of Elafonissi’s pink sand beaches, the island offers a natural playground like no other.
Mythological Heritage: Walk in the footsteps of gods and heroes, exploring ruins and temples that echo the ancient stories of Minos and the Minotaur.
Culinary Delights: Experience the zest of Cretan cuisine, a fresh and delicious feast for the senses with every bite rooted in the rich soil of this fertile island.
Heartfelt Hospitality: The Greeks have a word for hospitality called ‘Philoxenia’ which literally translates as a “friend to a stranger” and nowhere is that more evident than in Crete.
8 Tips for a Magical Experience
1 – Avoid the Crowds
Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, or go out of season (April, May, October and November are some of our favourite months for this reason).
2 – Seek the Golden Hour
This is the hour following sunrise and the hour before sunset. Another gift of this is that you will get some epic photos!
3 – Move Your Body
The best places, while accessible by car, also require some hiking (or swimming in some places!) to get to.
4 – Find New Paths
Even if you are visiting a very touristy spot, find a way to get there off the beaten track. For the more adventurous, even in the height of summer, you can find a deserted beach for yourself.
5 – Let Crete Surprise You
When you come here with an open mind and a true sense of curiosity, you will have experiences and encounters that will warm your heart.
6 – Put Your Phone Down
Crete is so photogenic it’s easy to forget to take in the moment. Follow some of our simple exercises in the next section to help.
7 – Don’t Overplan
Instead, follow your intuition and allow yourself to be surprised every day. That is how the best adventures happen!
8 – Ask the Locals
Most of them simply love to help and speak about their home. Ask them for their favourite spots or their recommendations: you might end up somewhere completely unexpected!
Download Your Free Guide to West Crete
This article was taken from our free Insider’s Guide to West Crete. Download yours here.
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The Find Your Magic Difference
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Discover the magic that awaits you. Join us on an adventure that promises not just a retreat, but a revelation. Welcome to Find Your Magic Retreats, where your journey to self-discovery and exhilaration begins.
Ready to embark on a journey of transformation and discovery? Join us on our next retreat in Crete and unlock the magic within. Start planning now and begin the adventure of a lifetime.
