Discover the Undiscovered Charm of Crete

If you’re following my latest client group trip, I want to welcome you to Crete! The largest Greek island in the Aegean Sea, Crete is thought to be the birthplace of the Greek god Zeus. It is also known for its crystal-clear waters, rich history, and, believe it or not, 32 million olive trees! Crete is the perfect place for you if you’re looking for a mix of adventure, elegance, and cultural depth. Get ready to be intrigued by this island’s unique experiences. 

Heraklion and Knossos Palace: A Walk Through History

Heraklion, the vibrant capital, was our first stop. Our day started with a visit to Knossos Palace. This ancient site, considered Europe’s oldest city, allowed us to explore the legend of King Minos and the Minotaur. Walking through its courtyards and frescoed rooms, you won’t just see history; you’ll feel it. You will see many large tour groups wearing whispers, so for a better experience, consider hiring a private guide to whisk you past the crowds (like we did), bring the past to life, and give you a more immersive experience. We ran out of time, but I recommend finishing this part of the day at the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, one of the most important museums in Europe, which houses the most extensive collection of Minoan artifacts in the world.

Next, we headed to Heraklion, Crete’s bustling capital. This city blends the old and new with bustling open-air markets and delicious Cretan street food. To round out your experience, enjoy a culinary tour with local dishes and explore the Venetian fortress by the port. For a touch of luxury, arrange a private wine-tasting tour of Heraklion’s famous vineyards – the wines are some of the best in Greece!

Elegance in Elounda: A Luxurious Retreat

Elounda offers a haven of sophistication, with high-end resorts that blend luxury and personal touches. Our luxury suite, overlooking the blue waters, provided the perfect place to relax after a day of adventures. Top resorts in Elounda, like the Blue Palace or Domes of Elounda, offer more than just beautiful rooms. They provide personalized experiences like private plunge pools and curated dining experiences under the stars, making you feel pampered and indulged.

Spinalonga and Agios Nikolaos: A Nautical Adventure

On our last day in Crete, we set sail on a private boat from Elounda to Spinalonga, a small island with an interesting history. Spinalonga served as a Venetian fortress from the late 16th century, strategically guarding the Elounda Bay until it fell to the Ottomans in the early 18th century. Later, it gained notoriety as a leper colony from 1903 until 1957, where patients were exiled but managed to create a thriving community against all odds. 

From Spinalonga, our driver took us to Agios Nikolaos, a picturesque coastal town often referred to as the St. Tropez of Greece. We explored its lovely streets leading to the peaceful Lake Voulismeni, did a little shopping in upscale boutiques, and enjoyed an al fresco lunch at a lakeside café, making it the perfect place to wrap up our Cretan adventure.

A Personalized Journey to Remember

Crete’s mix of ancient sites, luxury accommodations, and stunning scenery promises an unforgettable experience. And the best part? You can enjoy Crete year-round, making it a destination you can confidently plan for any time of the year. It combines well with the Cycladic, Dodecanese, and Ionian Islands, offering you a comprehensive Greek island experience that will leave you feeling informed and prepared for your journey.

Key destinations: 

• Elounda – for luxury beach resorts
• Chania – for local culture
• Agios Nikolaos – for an upscale, local fishing village
• Samaria Gorge – for hiking
• Knossos – for history and archaeology lovers
• Lasithi Region – for traditional villages
• Hersonissos – for beaches, nightlife, and golf

Join us next week for our next stop: beautiful Santorini!