Villas in Crete, Greece

There are countless things to do and see in Crete. Walks, climbs, drives and rides take you across striking plateaux, dramatic mountains and stunning seascapes. When you choose a villa holiday on this Greek Island, you can discover local customs and traditions, try new sports or simply soak up the stunning natural environment and its amazing views from snow-capped mountains to glistening bays. Swimming, watersports, fishing, diving and snorkelling are in abundance around Crete’s coastline. Climbing and caving are also a popular way to explore the island’s world-famous local gorges.

Crete is home to many architectural and historical jewels. From ancient labyrinthine ruins and scenic routes well-trodden by legends, you’ll be instantly transported back to the Minoan culture that flourished on this Greek Island thousands of years ago. Roman, Venetian and Turkish rule have also left their mark on Crete with cobbled alleys, monasteries, old fortresses, mosques and harbours. Multiple museums offer a fascinating insight into its long and colourful past, as well as Crete’s many cultural traditions still practised in villages to this day.

You’ll find an endless number of beautiful sand and coloured pebble beaches bordering Crete’s coastline - many awarded with the Blue Flag for cleanliness and safety and ideal for a family holiday.

Pretty secluded coves lapped by clear warm seas are dotted across Crete; while the larger and busier villa holiday resorts and bays offer waterfront bars, tavernas and every day amenities ideal for families. The island also provides practical seaside facilities, including sun umbrellas – as well as lifeguards in peak season to watch over visitors on the beach and in the water.

Shopping on Crete is an experience not to be missed! A wide range of small village shops and markets sell local produce and beautifully-crafted leather, copper, bronze, terracotta and wooden items. Explore the bigger towns on your villa holiday, where the streets are lined with chic boutiques offering the latest trends in clothing, shoes, and beauty items. With everything from top designer labels to original jewellery pieces, folk art and olive oil (Crete’s is rated one of the best in the world) – you’ll find great gifts, holiday essentials and luxury items at competitive prices.

• Visit King Minas’ Palace at Knossos to see where Theseus made his way through the labyrinth to slay the legendary half-man, half-bull monster - The Minotaur.

• Visit Chania Town on the west coast, known as the prettiest town on the island for its combination of natural beauty and variety of archaeological and historical sights.

• Join in the celebrations at the Rethymno Wine Festival in late July and witness spectacular Greek dancing and free-flowing wine.

• Visit the delightful, cosmopolitian town of Agios Nikolaos in the est of the island, exploring the pretty harbour and experiencing the great cuisine and shops on offer.

• Go hiking and take in the breathtaking scenery at Samaria Gorge - the longest in Europe. It’s a long, hard day’s walk – not for the faint hearted - but well worth the effort. A further 50 gorges are waiting to be discovered - some much easier to traverse than others – so seek advice before you go.