Crete, Greece
Steeped in history, culture, and tradition, Greece’s largest island, Crete, is a treasure trove full of ancient relics, traditional tavernas, white-sand beaches, and natural beauties waiting to be discovered. Along the northern coast, Rethymno is one of Crete’s most alluring cities, known for its Venetian-Ottoman influences and its quaint old town where maze-like alleys lead to cozy cafes — the perfect spot to sip Cretan coffee and simply watch the world pass by.
Must-Do: For cultural insight into Crete’s storied past, visit the Palace of Knossos and explore the remnants of this Minoan stronghold, which dates to the Neolithic period. The original royal residence, with its more than 1,500 rooms, was the home of King Minos and supposedly the Minotaur (a Greek mythical creature that had the body of a man and the head of a bull), who was believed to have lived in a dark labyrinth under the palace.
Eat: Discover the rich Mediterranean flavors of Cretan food, including a variety of meze starters (the Greek version of Spanish tapas), at a local taverna or kafeneia (traditional coffee house). Be sure to order to the table saganaki (pan-fried slices of Greek cheese), dolmades (vine leaves filled with rice, minced meat, and a herb mixture), and tzatziki (a creamy dip made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, and mint) served alongside warm pita bread. Whilst for mains, kleftiko (slow-cooked lamb with tomato and potato all seasoned with garlic) is a standout.
Day-Trip: Experience the island’s natural beauty during a visit to Lake Kournas — Crete’s only freshwater lake — located about 17 miles west of Rethymno. Idyllically set in a valley surrounded by oak and cypress trees, it’s a tranquil setting for a swim, picnic, or simply sunbathing on the white-sand beaches. Water sports such as kayaking and paddleboating are also available. On the water and along the shore, watch for rare wildlife, including the white-throated kingfisher, the great crested grebe, and a unique species of two-colored turtle with spots on its shell.
