Discovering Vacation Rentals in Crete
Made up of four prefectures: Chania, Rethimno, Heraklion, and Lasthi, the largest of the Greek islands, Crete, is located in the Mediterranean Sea and boasts all of the expected benefits of this fair-weather locale. Crete offers more than enough ways for an interested traveler to spend their time; so why not live like a local, and reserve an apartments in Crete which is as authentically Greek as the land is stands upon.
Discover Crete's Beaches: A Mediterranean Paradise
Many vacationers to Crete choose the island for its beaches. Some of the most exclusive can be found in Elounda, what was once a charming fishing town and has now become home to most of the five-star resorts and exclusive homes on the island – the perfect place for luxury accommodations such as a villa with pool. Some of the best sandy beaches can be found in southern Ierapetra; many of the other beaches on the island are made of slate and therefore offer a different ambiance.
Moving away from the shore: Discovering the rest of Crete
While Crete's beaches are definitely a draw, the island also boasts a very diverse topography, ranging from coastal plains to rugged mountains to busy cities – this is just one of the many reasons that you might like to choose vacation homes in Crete and take full advantage of discovering this beautiful landscape. Samaria National Park is home to a beautiful gorge that's perfect for outdoor aficionados; it takes five to seven hours to hike the whole thing. The Lasithi Plateau is yet another outdoor site to visit, home to numerous old stone windmills. Heraklion is the largest city in Crete, home to Knossos, the archeological highlight of the area. Heraklion also has a beautiful harbor, which is surrounded by Venetian walls and a Venetian fort. Chania is yet another great city to visit, with a far more in tact Old Town than that of Heraklion, much of which dates to the Venetian and Turkish period. Other lovely historic sites to visit include the Palace of Knossos in Knossos, a holdover from the ancient Minoan civilization that once lived here, the first advanced society in Europe dating back over 4,000 years.
The famed nightlife of Crete
Vacationers also love Crete for its nightlife. Agios Nikolaos used to be the major partying hot spot, but today it has reduced its clubbing venues quite a bit and doesn't draw nearly as large a crowd. Cherosnissos is a charming town with some nightlife, but the most popular clubs are in Malia, the current party capital of Crete. Brimming with clubs and discotheques, Malia tends to attract university students and tourists who are only here for the party scene. Many of them make the jump from Britain, choosing Crete for a long week-end. They often rent a last-minute guesthouse or apartments in Crete to celebrate a stag do (bachelor party). Be sure that you are willing to spend your evenings with this boisterous crowd if you choose this part of Crete for your holiday.