Crete is the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean and by far the largest and longest of the Greek islands. At just under 8,500 square kilometres, that's 260km across and 15 to 60km wide, the strikingly elongated island boasts an impressive 1,000km of coastline. As well as beautiful beaches, rugged coastline and varied landscape, Crete is an island steeped in history spanning well into the Neolithic era, some 6,000 years ago.
Rethymnon
The town of Rethymnon is the capital of the region of Rethymnou, and has a population of just under 32,000. Rethymnon was built by the Venetians very early on during the fourth crusade, and attracted many artists and scholars fleeing the fallen Byzantine capital of Constantinople. The massive fortification works were added by the Venetians much later. Impregnable though it looks, the fortress survived only 23 days of the fierce Turkish attack of 1646 before it succumbed, plunging the province into much feared Ottoman rule. Walking through the old town you can see everywhere this once uneasy co-existence into what forms this day one of the most surprising skylines.
There is a sandy beach with numerous tavernas and cafés along the promenade. While in town, stroll through the old quarters, visit the Archaeological Museum, admire the views from the Fortetza (Fortress), and go for a swim. The Rethymnou district is mountainous, consisting of a valley (Amari) towered on either side by the two highest mountain ranges, Psiloritis (Ida) to the east, and Lefka Ori to the west, ideal for hard core walkers as well as the more gently-hearted botanist or nature lover. Other places to visit include the beach of Preveli and the historical monastery of Arkadhiou (Moni Arkadhiou).
Chania
Chania, one of the most beautiful towns on the island of Crete, is the capital of the western most Chanion district and hosts one of the international airports of the island. In fact, this historic town of 53,000 inhabitants used to be the capital of Crete in living memory, but has now relinquished the part to Heraklion.
The ancient town of Kydonia had been inhabited since Neolithic times and saw prosperity and decline in succession several times in its long history. It flourished mostly under Venetian rule, when it acquired its modern name Chania and was often referred to as 'Venice of the East', a glory now reflected in the inner harbour, Venetian lighthouse, arsenals and castle. While in town, enjoy walking through the historic quarters and along the waterfront, and take a look at the domed Mosque of the Jannissaries. Visit the Archaeological Museum to see a great number of artefacts from sites all over the island, and the Naval Museum if you are interested in model ships and the role of Cretan fighters and the Allies in World War II. The Chanion region combines exquisite natural beauty with historical sites.
It is famously rugged and mountainous in the south and centre, as most of it is taken up by the massive Lefka Ori (White Mounts), but still allows the visitor to travel to spectacular sandy beaches in the South West (Elafonissos), West (Falasarna) and all along the northern coast. This walkers' paradise includes at least two walkable gorges slashing through the mountains (Imbros and Samaria), and possibly affords you the only chance to cross stone arched bridges over dry land (the only safe time to cross gorges which double as winter torrent beds is when they are dry!)
