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.

Metohi Kindelis, Chania

Two villa apartments, each with its own garden and pool, within a huge family farmhouse dating from Venetian times. It is surrounded by apricot and orange groves, and a huge lawn. Inside, are cool marble floors and modern facilities.
Michael Damaskinos

Michailis Damaskinos (circa 1530–91) is the best known of the Cretan School icon painters. Some of his most important works are exhibited in the Museum of Religious Art in Irakleio (see Museum of Religious Art).
Milatos

A pebbly beach and surprisingly uncrowded compared with the teeming resorts only a few kilometres to the west.
Milia Village

Set in the forested slopes of Crete’s “wild west”, Milia offers 13 rooms in village houses rebuilt between 1982 and 1993 in local stone and wood. The rooms are heated by wood-burning stoves, while water comes from mountain springs.
Minoan Empires

The Minoan civilization emerged between 3000 and 1900 BC. A volcanic explosion may have destroyed the Minoan cities around 1450 BC.
Minoan Villa Site, Vathypetrou

Vathypetrou was presumably the home of a Minoan landowner, and ancient wine-making equipment found on the site indicates that the surrounding vineyards are thousands of years old.
Minoan Villa Site,Tylissos

Tylissos was inhabited more than 4,000 years ago, but the most interesting discoveries are the remains of three large Minoan villas.
Minos Beach Art ’Otel, Ag. Nikolaos

This medium-sized complex of bungalows with splendid views of the Gulf of Mirabello is set in tranquil, flowerfilled gardens, graced by a collection of specially commissioned sculptures. Only a stroll from the centre of Agios Nikolaos, the hotel has its own small sandy beaches and several rocky inlets.
Minos Palace, Ag. Nikolaos

A highly esteemed resort of 150 rooms and bungalows close to Agios Nikolaos town. Facilities include tennis courts, a swimming pool, water sport, and several restaurants.
Minos, Irakleio

Lamb baked with yoghurt is the speciality of this unassuming, cheerful restaurant which is as popular with Irakleians as it is with visitors.

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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