Crete Luxury Holidays

Long and narrow Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, is a place of contrasts. You have seas lapping the shores of sandy beaches in the north, while in the south the ocean crashes into towering, vertical cliff faces. It has majestic mountains and rolling hills, bustling tourist inlets and islets, and unspoilt and uninhabited lands.

Whatever has drawn you to this beautiful island, the locals are known for their generous hospitality, and with our selection of luxury hotels to choose from, you can be sure of a warm welcome.

Highlights

The scenery of Crete offers something for everyone. A selection of beaches – white, golden and pebbly – offer ideal sunbathing spots in the hot summer months, with the Mediterranean blue waters inviting you to paddle, swim, kayak or snorkel. If you like the dramatic, rugged landscapes, why not explore the coves and canyons that abound around the south coast cliffs? Take a boat trip to see the beautiful scenery from another angle then, after a day of sand and sea, watch the sunset with a glass of wine from a local vineyard in hand.

However, Crete is not just for lovers of the beach and sun worshippers. Majestic mountain ranges tower with peaks so high there is often a scattering of snow at the top all year round. Valleys cradled between gentle hills hide tucked away, quaint villages and give way to luscious greenery, woodland, rivers, gorges and lakes that beg to be explored. You could take it all in on a driving tour or get your hiking boots on to head into the various gorges carved between rock faces, including Europe’s longest. You could even visit the cave where, legend has it, the Greek god Zeus was born.

Hunger for history

Crete is a place steeped in history. Situated at a meeting point of continents, it has been a busy place over the years and the events of time have left a trail of fascinating places to visit. From monasteries and chapels, to mosques and Renaissance mansions, you could spend an entire holiday visiting the historical sites of invasions and the palaces of conquerors.

For the foodie, Crete is an utter delight. Truly local and seasonal food is key to Cretan cuisine and you will be in heaven tasting fresh olive oil, hillside greens and herbs, freshly caught seafood and a range of local cheeses and meats. Explore villages and rural tavernas, which often take pride in their own traditional household recipes. The hidden villages tucked away up hills and mountains dearly hold on to their unique customs, so you could take a day or two to soak up the true Cretan atmosphere in these quiet spots.

The perfect holiday

Crete and its people will leave you with a warm glow that you will want to hold on to well past home time. With our luxury hotels and a team ready to help you plan an itinerary full of good food, rest, culture and activity, you will undoubtedly want to return to this island gem time and time again.