DK Travel : Crete

Although it could not be more Greek, Crete is really a country within a country, with its own history, folklore and traditions. It was the birthplace of Europe’s oldest civilization, the enigmatic Minoan culture which flourished over 4,000 years ago. Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Saracens, Venetians and Turks also left their mark. This rich human heritage is set against the backdrop of magnificent mountain scenery and beaches lapped by a deep blue sea.

Creta Helena, Chania

Modern apartment complex in a quiet area, 20 minutes’ walk from the harbour. It offers openplan apartments, each with a twin or double bedroom and a living room with sofa-bed and kitchenette. There’s also a small pool.
Creta Paradise, Chania

An award-winning 186-room resort on one of Crete’s Blue Flag beaches, the Creta Paradise is only ten minutes away from the centre of Chania. Modern facilities include two pools, and its bungalows have been built in an attractive Neo-Classical style.
Cretan Argus Butterfly

The beautiful Cretan argus butterfly is limited to the higher slopes of the Dikti and Idi mountains. This large, dark brown butterfly is increasingly endangered through loss of habitat.
Cretan Ebony

Putting out spikes of pink flowers in spring, the Cretan ebony clings to steep, rocky cliffs and mountainsides.
Cretan Handicraft, Mirthios

Vividly coloured weavings, shepherds’ sticks, embroidery, lace, herbs, wines, raki and olive oil.
Cretan House Folklore Museum

Traditional looms and spinning wheels, richly coloured rugs, wall hangings and embroidery can be found at this delightful place.
Cretan Sausages (Loukanika)

Loukanika – small spicy pork sausages – are found all over Greece, but those from Crete are reckoned to be among the best. They may be served fried (tiganita ) or smoked (kapnista ), and are a regular feature of a lavish meze (dish of appetizers).
Cretan Spiny Mouse

The Cretan spiny mouse is unique to the island. Like most small rodents, it is nocturnal and is therefore not the easiest of the island’s mammals to see. Look out for its endearingly large ears and blunt spines against rocky slopes at twilight.
Cretan Wild Cat

Cretan shepherds have long claimed that the wilder parts of the island are home to a large wild cat called the fourokattos . The first live specimen of this elusive beast was caught in the mid-1990s by Italian zoologists. Weighing 5.5 kg (12 lbs), with a tawny pelt and a formidable snarl, the Cretan wild cat is unique in Europe.
Cumin

Another exotic import, cumin is essential in the slowly cooked casserole stifado .

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under €30
- €30–€40
- €40–€80
- €80–€120
- over €120