LLM EXCLUSIVE WEEKEND NEWS / 8 Reasons To Visit Greece’s Largest Island Of Crete This Year / LLM Reporters / luxurylifestylemag

From fantastic food to friendly locals, a history so rich and abundant, and glorious natural elements – beautiful beaches and stunning seas we’re looking at you – Greece is a popular tourist destination, and for good reason.

Made up of some 6,000 islands, the largest of Crete offers around 650 miles of coastline brimming with crystal-clear waters, luxurious lagoons and white sand beaches perfect for relaxing on. There is also stunning natural scenery to take in, varied history and culture to be discovered, and bustling towns to enjoy, making any stay in Crete a truly unforgettable one.

If a trip to Crete is on the cards for you this year, then read on to discover eight unmissable highlights on what’s known as the ‘Great Island’, handpicked by the experts at Five Star Greece, a company offering some of the finest luxury villas in all of Greece.

Heraklion

The perfect place to begin has to be with Heraklion, Crete’s capital and home to some excellent sights. Head to the city’s Venetian port and you can’t miss the 16^th-century Koules fortress.

Explore more of the island’s impressive history at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which holds some of the most significant Minoan artifacts; the Natural History Museum of Crete; and the Historical Museum of Crete. Be sure to browse the boutiques and stop off for a delicious meal at one of the city’s finest restaurants.

The perfect place to begin has to be with Heraklion, Crete’s capital and home to some excellent sights

Knossos Palace

Just outside of the city of Heraklion you’ll find the Bronze Age archaeological site of Knossos, a major centre of the Minoan Civilisation. Remnants of the palace, which is said to the home of King Minos and legendary Minotaur, still stand and you can take a tour of the site to learn all about its 7,000-year history.

Samaria Gorge

Hikers will find themselves in heaven at Samaria Gorge National Park. Stretching 16 kilometres, the breath-taking gorge offers a dramatic landscape encompassing sheer, rocky cliffs, lush green plains and a winding river.

Those looking to hike the gorge should set aside five to seven hours – dependant on fitness levels – and head there in spring for the best experience – visitor numbers will be fewer than in summer, the weather will be cooler, and the local flora and fauna will be bursting with life.

Fitness retreats

Those with a passion for fitness should consider choosing Crete for their active holiday as there are a number of dedicated wellbeing and fitness retreats that take place on the island.

Expert coaches guide the week-long experience and it offers a chance for you to connect with like-minded people in a stunning setting, while exploring the trails and waters as you stay on top of your fitness goals.

Marvel at the remnants of Knossos Palace, home of Minos and the legendary Minotaur.

Chania

Another of the island’s cities, Chania is a must-visit for its gorgeous Venetian harbour lined with restaurants and influences from the Venetians, Ottomans and Egyptians.

Be sure to wander the shops to pick up some goodies along the way and pay a visit to the Maritime Museum of Crete and the Archaeological Museum of Chania for a little culture hit.

Balos Beach

Offering a slice of paradise during your stay in Crete, Balos Beach is a secluded stretch of sand and mesmerising lagoon that you must visit. The best way to experience Balos is to take a boat trip from Kissamos Port which cruises the bay for an hour before stopping off at the island of Gramvousa, where you can walk up to the Venetian Castle and also explore the Greek Orthodox church by the seaside.

Return to the boat and, before long, you’ll find yourself at the stunning beach and lagoon where you can swim, sunbathe and simply marvel at the magnificent surroundings.

Chania is a must-visit for its gorgeous Venetian harbour lined with restaurants and influences from the Venetians, Ottomans and Egyptians

Rethymno

Relaxing Rethymno, between Chania and Heraklion on the north coast, provides a lovely setting for mornings at the beach, long lazy dinners, strolls around the old town, and discovery at the Museum of contemporary Art of Crete, as well the hilltop Fortezza – a 16^th-century star-shaped citadel. The small city boasts a good nightlife scene and offers a little bit of everything, so if you’re looking for a place to base yourself, you can’t go wrong here.

Elafonissi Beach

Another stunning stretch of coast, Elafonissi Beach sits on the southwestern side of the island and is famed for its pink-hued sand and crystal-clear shallow waters.

It can get busy here during summer months, but it is a well worth a visit, so try heading there early in the morning or later in the day, or consider visiting Crete in early spring or late autumn if you prefer a little more privacy.