Beaches in Crete - Matala
by ramot418
There are lots of beaches in Crete, of course.
However, those on the northern coast tend to be a little rocky or at least stony.
However, we found a nice sandy beach on the south coast at the town of Matala. During the high season it tends to be a little crowded, but it's still a great beach (small, but beautiful). The town itself is very 'touristy'. As for eateries, we preferred the neighbouring (and *much* quieter) village of Pitsidia. There was a choice of about 4-5 restaurants and we had an excellent and relaxing meal at one of them.
The Minoan civilization
by janchan
The most brilliant Aegean island civilization, however, was the Cretan or Minoan civilization which flourished in Crete mainly in the 3rd and 2nd millennia B.C. and took its name from the legendary king of Knossos, Minos.
They built magnificent palaces, such as those of Knossos, Phaestos, Malia and Zakros.
It suddenly and misteriously disappeared at the end of 1500 B.C. after the volcanic eruption of Thera (Santorini) which, according to one view, also caused the destruction of Crete.
Retzina... yes, it tastes delicious!
by call_me_rhia
From the the Epicurious Dictionary: "sappy and turpentinelike". I disagree! It's general belief that Retzina is an aquired taste: I agree, it took me one sip to aquire it!
It's a wine - with a special pine-like taste that one will never forget. I think that it was born by mistake from wine shipped in pine-pitch sealed vessels - and the pine flavour remained. One small tip: taste it with some appetizers - like goat cheese or olives or stuffed wine-leaves... it's even better than alone. A bottle costs about 2.50 euros in a restaurant and, normally, it's more than enough for two people. But ask if they have home-made retzina: it's even more delicious.
Samarian Gourge
by misodiva
A hike I will never forget. I am not in good shape, it took me about 6 hours to complete, 7 miles. We took a tour bus to the top, start early in am, go straight down switchbacks for about a mile. Then in the actual gourge you are essential walking on a old river bed, over white stones. The walls are beautiful covered with evergreens and amazing rock formations. At the end you come to a town with restaurants and beautiful beaches that is only accessible by the ferry. So you ferry back to the bus. Amazing Must have good walking hiking shoes. I wore tennis shoes and different sources,some said tennis shoes okay, some said must have hiking boots. But you are walking over so many stones you really need to traction. Also really need a good walking stick as the first part is very steep. Bring some drinking water, snacks, and sunscreen. By the end of the hike we were very hot and lots of sun.
Lake Kournas
by Lilasel
Lake Kournas is one of only two lakes in Crete and covers a total area of about 160,000 square metres with a depth of up to 25 metres. (48 km east of Chania) The name is derived from the Arabic word for lake. Dense vegetation surrounds the scenic lake and the southeastern bank is lined with olive trees. A strip of white sand beside the lake provides an area for swimming and cafes.
THE MYTH OF THE LADY OF THE LAKE
http://www.suzisunflowers.net/myrina/kournas.html
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Thats me in one of the many swing seats
The western end of Sitia Beach
Inside looking out
Gouves
