Crete is one of the more well-known islands of the thousands that make up Greece, but it is also the largest, meaning that much of the island tends to get overlooked by the millions of tourists that visit each year.
This is great news for you! The fact that visitors cluster around Chania and Heraklion means that the hidden gems are there for you to discover, and chances are you’ll find it more refreshing and rewarding than navigating the throngs of tourists during high-season.
Note: Renting a car in Greece is quite cheap, but if you don’t know how to drive standard, make sure to tell the rental company as most cars aren’t automatic. You’ll end up a paying a little more, but let’s be honest, a Greek holiday is no time to start learning how to drive stick! Your easiest option is to book a flight into the main airport in Heraklion via Thomas Cook Airlines flights to Crete, and contact one of the many car rental companies in the airport before your arrival so you can just pick up your car and start exploring right away.
1. Frangokastello
Peaceful, few tourists, little traffic, natural beauty and plenty of history. What more could you really want on a vacation?
Known for: the Venetian castle built on the beach in 1371 to protect against pirates and local uprisings.
Nature nuts: Plenty of white sandy beaches in the area, with stunning views of the impressive White Mountains.
Local legend: the phenomenon of the Drosoulites. Every year on the anniversary of the battle of Frangokastello a procession of phantom warriors march seaside towards the beach and disappear with the first rays of sun. Some believe it is a mirage, but not everyone is convinced. Sightings have been well documented throughout the ages, with a German patrol actually firing upon them in WWII.
2. Anogeia
One of the most authentic and charming villages in Crete, Anogia is located on the beautiful Psiloritis Mountain.
Known for: friendly locals, authentic locally sourced food, handwoven bags and tablecloths sewn by local women. Traditional music can be enjoyed in the lovely open-air theaters during the summer months as well.
Nature nuts: Hiking and cycling are obvious choices (you’re on a mountain, duh!), but if you’re not feeling up to it, just waking up to watch the morning sunrise from the gorgeous vistas with a Greek coffee is sufficiently glorious. Remember that it gets a bit colder here than the rest of the island since you’re at a higher altitude, so don’t forget a light sweater! Also visit the Nidas Plateau and the Ideon Cave.
Local legend: Zeus grew up here 😉
3. Rethymno
Despite being the third largest town in Crete, Rethymno is a dreamer’s paradise. Its Venetian and Turkish architecture endures, the charm of the Old Town is indisputable, yet there is a perfectly gorgeous stretch of white sand beach and a beautiful harbor teeming with history and legends.
Known for: The views from the Preveli Monastery, the domed Paleontological Museum, the historical Old Town and harbor, the lively local folk music scene.
Nature nuts: Check out the Triopetra and Preveli beaches, catch a sunrise or sunset from the harbor, take a day trip to Mili Gorge, or head uphill towards Agia Irini for stunning views of Rethymno and its surroundings.
Local legend: Not exactly a legend, but the existence of human life during the Neolithic period (6000-2600 BC) has been proven by archaeological finds in Rethymno. Talk to some locals and visit some local museums to learn more about prehistoric life in the area!
There are plenty of other villages to explore on the island, so if you’re feeling really adventurous, just rent a car for a couple of weeks, ask some locals for recommendations, and see where the road takes you!
Images are not my own and each links to its original source.
