Where to stay in Crete, the birthplace of European civilisation
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Discover where to stay in Crete and immerse yourself in a paradise island full of stunning beaches and ancient treasures; book unique and luxurious accommodation at Voyage Prive.
Book a getaway to Crete, Greek’s largest island
Home of the earliest recorded civilisation in Europe, Crete, located deep in the Mediterranean, still resonates with hundreds of thousands of tourists every single year because of its large number of relaxing beaches, imposing gorges and almost year-round sun. There really is something for every holidaymaker in Crete, so why not contemplate a stay on the Greek island today?
Crete – a place of culture and nature
The Greeks call Crete ‘the Great Island’, and it’s no wonder. Home to the ancient Minoans, you can still feel the ghosts of history echoing around this place, especially in Knossos, the stronghold of the culture that allegedly met its demise with the catastrophic volcanic eruption of Thera, an island around 100 km from the shores of Crete. The world’s largest collection of remnants from the Minoan civilisation can be found at the archaeological museum in Heraklion, capital of the island.
Aside from the obvious beaches, Crete is home to several imposing gorges, the most notable of which is Samariá Gorge. 16 kilometres long, and with a maximum elevation of 1,250 metres, the gorge, which is also one of Greece’s national parks, is on the bucket list of many a keen hiker. Safaris and scuba diving also enable visitors to gain an insight into Crete’s unique biosphere, while for a more sedate experience, there are a range of aquariums and animal parks on the island.
Stay in Heraklion, the centre of the action in Crete
Heraklion or, as the locals call it, Iraklio, is one of the largest cities in Greece, and well worth a visit, if you’re not staying there in the first place. Heraklion is an ancient place, with Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman influences, but that doesn’t mean it’s stuck in the past. The city offers plenty to do, whether you want to stroll around the harbour and accompanying fortress, relax on one of the many expanses of sand in the area, or sample a taste of the nightlife that attracts thousands of young people. Party destination Malia isn’t too far away if you simply want to use Heraklion as a base from which to further explore the delights of the island.
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