EASTERN CRETE, THE ESSENCE OF SUMMER

AN ENDLESS COASTLINE OF FINE BEACHES, HIDDEN COVES, AND SPARKLING BAYS AWAIT ON THE LARGEST GREEK ISLAND

EXPLORE EASTERN CRETE

Discover the captivating beauty of eastern Crete, where dramatic mountains rise above charming villages and picturesque seaside towns, while deep gorges and fertile valleys descend towards the shimmering sea. Steeped in myth, history, and mystery, this remarkable region is steeped in reminders of Minoan civilisation. Yet eastern Crete is far more than a destination defined by its past. Vibrant and authentic, it embraces the present with exceptional cuisine, handcrafted local wines and spirits, and a warm Cretan hospitality best enjoyed beside the crystal-clear waters that surround the island.

ATMOSPHERIC SPINALONGA

Just a short boat journey from the mainland, Spinalonga is an evocative island fortress set within the Mirabello Gulf. Once a formidable Venetian stronghold and later a leper colony, its fascinating history and dramatic setting make it one of Crete's most compelling landmarks.

VERDANT VAI

With its white sands, emerald-green waters, and unique backdrop of Europe's largest natural palm forest, Vai Beach evokes the beauty of the Indian Ocean or the Caribbean, creating one of Crete's most exotic coastal landscapes.

MINOAN MAGIC

Step back almost four millennia and follow in the footsteps of the ancient Minoans at Kato Zakros, one of Greece's largest and most significant archaeological sites, where the island's extraordinary history comes vividly to life.

A PALACE FIT FOR A KING

The crowning jewel of Crete's historical treasures, Knossos was once the heart of the Minoan civilisation. Discover magnificent frescoes and explore the legendary palace forever associated with the mythical Minotaur.

PRETTY AS A PICTURE

Overlooking the island of Spinalonga, the charming village of Plaka is the epitome of Cretan tranquillity. With its welcoming tavernas, crystal-clear waters, dramatic mountain scenery, and endless blue skies, it offers an idyllic escape for those seeking simple Mediterranean pleasures.

ATMOSPHERIC SPINALONGA

VERDANT VAI

MINOAN MAGIC

A PALACE FIT FOR A KING

PRETTY AS A PICTURE

LIVE THE EXPERIENCE

IN VINO VERITAS

Nestled within an unspoilt landscape at the far northeastern tip of Crete, Toplou Monastery is both a historic monastery and a working vineyard. Circled by 10-metre-high walls and crowned by its distinctive bell tower, enjoy a snapshot of the island's rich spiritual and winemaking heritage.

GORGEOUS GORGES

Eastern Crete is home to countless ravines and valleys that carry streams and rivers from the elevated Lasithi Plateau to the sea. To the west lies the island's most celebrated hiking trail through the spectacular Samaria Gorge.

SLEEPY SEASIDE STAY

Peaceful and welcoming, the traditional fishing village of Mochlos has retained its authentic Cretan character. Small boats make the short crossing to the island of Agios Nikolas which lies opposite, while the village itself offers a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere in an unspoilt coastal setting.