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.

Marilena, Elounda

Marilena’s menu concentrates on seafood, simply grilled and very fresh, and prices are not exorbitant by the standards of Elounda, which is generally the priciest place on Crete. Other Greek dishes have been adapted for foreign palates by using a little less oil (see Marilena, Elounda).
Marilena, Elounda

Simply grilled fresh seafood is what Marilena does best, though it also serves other Greek dishes, created with an appealing lightness of touch.
Marina Studios, Malia

A modern complex of 11 apartments and studios, just 300 m from the beach and 6 km (4 miles) from the bright lights of Chersonisos.
Market

Leave Plateia Kornarou north of the fountain, along the market street Odos 1866, among stalls selling fresh fruit, olives, dried fruit and nuts, and less familiar produce such as buckets of live snails. Midway along 1866, turn left and walk along to Plateia Ekaterinis, where the main landmark is the pompous 19thcentury cathedral.
Marmara (Marble Beach)

A collection of sheltered coves lined with smooth white pebbles. Marmara attracts nude sunbathers and can be reached by boat from Loutro.
Matala

A series of sandy coves separated by rocky headlands, Matala first attracted sunseeking hippy travellers in the 1960s and graduated to become a small holiday resort in the 1980s.
Matala

Matala’s coves of fine golden sand, surrounded by rocky red cliffs harbouring Roman cavetombs, made the place a magnet for hippy travellers in the 1960s. Its tourism is more orthodox now, but Matala is still pleasantly lowkey. A good base for exploring Gortys and Phaestos.
Melanourgia

A large, silver-scaled fish with tasty white flesh; it’s usually grilled.
Melidoni

This cave was said to be the lair of Talos, the bronze giant created by Zeus.
Melitzanosalata

A delicious savoury dip made by pureeing grilled aubergines with herbs, usually served with crusty bread.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €12
- €12–€18
- €18–€24
- €24–€32
- over €32
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