About Hidden Crete

The fourth largest island in the Mediterranean, Crete is 300km long, with uniquely contrasting landscapes – snow-covered mountains with dark, fathomless gorges, flat fertile plains, miles of golden tamarisk-fringed beaches with crystal clear water, a plethora of historical and archaeological sites.

The warm, genuine friendliness of the local people continues to amaze and delight every visitor, which is why so many people choose Crete as their holiday destination year after year.
All this beauty set in lush vineyards and olive groves, thousands of species of wild flowers, whitewashed villages dotted along the beaches and mountains, make up the setting for a perfect holiday .......

CLIMATE
Being one of the most southerly parts of Europe, Crete enjoys over 300 days of sunshine each year! In the summer months, the heat is alleviated on the north coast by the breezes of the «Meltemi». The start of the break-up of the long, dry months usually begins at the end of October. January and February form the real winter, yet often have lovely bright, sunny, warm days.

GRAPES/RAKI
Visitors in late August and September will witness the grape harvest and will more than likely be offered an armful! Wine is still made in the traditional way, by treading the grapes. The must left over is used to distil the local drink Raki. During October, the “Kazanemata”, (raki-making sessions) are held - you may see them at the roadside. Visitors are always welcome and given a sample. It is quite an exceptional experience!

OLIVE OIL
Olive oil forms a major part of the daily Cretan diet, the average annual consumption being over 35 litres per person, the highest in the world! Most families in Crete own some olive trees, not only to meet their daily needs, but also providing a second income. Sitian olive oil has won international acclaim, receiving many awards for its excellent quality and superior taste. Most visitors will unfortunately not experience olive picking, as this takes place during the winter months, the whole family helping out.

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN
Cretan ladies rarely sit doing nothing. Wandering through the villages, you will see them sitting outside their houses, when the daily chores have been done, doing some kind of needlework - but not on Sundays! Meanwhile, the men are to be found in the cafes, usually loudly discussing politics.........

HOW TO FIND HIDDEN EASTERN CRETE
Should your point of arrival in Greece be Athens, you can reach Sitia either by boat or plane (40-seater), both options going to and from Athens three times per week.
If you fly direct to Heraklion, the capital of Crete, eastern Crete can be reached by taxi, by hiring a car, or by using the local bus service.