Crete, the largest Mediterranean island that belongs to Greece, is of course associated with holidays, wonderful weather, delicious, always fresh food and smiling people.
But a trip to Crete that only involves a beach holiday is a waste of time. Crete is history, ancient and modern. Crete is the ruins of an ancient civilization that contain the secrets of the Mediterranean Sea that covers the island on all sides. Your main destination can be Hersonissos, a place that is quite interesting by Greek standards, and also a great starting point for exploring the surrounding islands.
The area around Crete cannot be compared to Egypt, the Caribbean, etc., but the Greeks have done a lot to make the dive safe and interesting. You will visit small caves, which are lacking in the area of Hersonissos and Mali. Underwater, as in Turkey or Egypt, you can find moray eels, octopuses, rockfish, and many interesting nudibranchs, such as the star. If you are lucky, you can watch turtles or groupers.
If you go down to the bay of Hersonissos, you will notice that the bottom of the bay is literally strewn with fragments of broken amphorae from ships that sank here as a result of numerous wars in the BC era. These could be the Mycenaean-Minoan wars, battles with numerous pirates, or the period of the Roman conquest in 67 BC, when Quintus Cecilius Metellus finally captured the island after a bloody battle.
The bay is shallow, 10-12 meters, so the sunlight easily reaches the amphorae, or rather their fractions, which are covered with coral particles. They look really interesting, including household items that an experienced observer can easily see. Diving in this place can stimulate the imagination, and the shallow dive is relaxing. Thanks to diving in Crete, you will remember an exciting pastime, despite the lack of impressions associated with the cornucopia of colors and forms presented by the fauna and flora in other seas.
After diving and another period of recuperation, as a good holiday should, set off on a trip to Crete. Go first to Gortyn, where you can admire the early Christian basilica of Agios Titos, dating back to the sixth century AD, and, most importantly, the Gortyn tablets, the first written collection of recipes in Europe. Later, head to Phaistos, where the Minoan palace is considered much more interesting than the famous Knossos.
After such impressions, have lunch in a wonderful tavern in the south of Crete. Tourists rarely come here, the food is simple. It will be a very good place, like all the small restaurants in Crete.
Visit the Venetian fortress in Rethymno, as well as the small port, and next to it delicious Greek coffee and fresh juices, which gave strength to visit another unique city on the northern coast - Chania. After it, go to Kissamos, where you can stay in a charming little hotel.
Go to Balos, one of the most charming corners of the Mediterranean. Just look at the breathtaking view that speaks for itself. You can also sunbathe on the charming beach of Elafonisi. The sand in the bay is white and pink, and the shallow, warm water allows you to go to the island of the same name.
You will be enchanted by a trip to Santorini. This volcanic island is an absolute Greek delicacy. The view of the amazing churches and houses is calming. The taste of the food is unique, especially the Greek salad in Santorini style with incredible tomatoes that exude an amazing aroma.
