Crete, a
crossroads of civilization
Crete, the largest
and southernmost of the Greek islands is a land of
astonishing diversity. A place where the three
continents of Europe, Asia and Africa converge. A
crossroads of civilization, each of which has left
its unique mark on the island. It used to be the
religious and economic centre of the ancient
civilized world.
The landscape
itself is a combination of snow-capped mountains
contrasting with lush, flower-filled plains;
unspoilt fishing villages sit side by side with the
graceful Venetian towns of Chania and Rethimnon, and
always the crystal clear blue waters of the Mediterranean
are in sight with lovely beaches and bays.
The climate is mild and dry, with often northerly wind, the “meltemi”, that brings a cool breeze on warm summer days.
The Aghios Nikolaos area, where the Blue Palace is situated, is on the north-east coast of the island, overlooking the beautiful gulf of Mirabello. The
hotel itself sits opposite the isle of Spinalonga with its medieval fortress founded in 1579 by the Venetian benefactor Luca
Michiel.
Aghios Nikolaos, 12 km from the hotel, is an international and cosmopolitan charming town with its dramatic Voulismeni Lake connected to the sea and lined
with cafes, tavernas, fishing boats and caiques.
Elounda (3 km) is smaller and more relaxed than its
neighbor. The harbour shelters both fishing boats and caiques which run out to Spinalonga. Its magical environment
satisfies even the most discerning of visitors.
A must is of course Knossos, Crete’s famous Minoan Palace and the Iraklion Archaeological Museum, which houses rich collections of finds from the Minoan
civilization, jewellery and artwork, including original frescoes from Knossos.
Other interesting excursions are the Plateau of Lassithi, with its thousands windmills and the legendary Dikti Cave, the Byzantine Church Panagia Kera, at the entrance to
the picturesque village of Kritsa or Lato, an archaeological site in very good condition and with fantastic panoramic view.
An ideal destination for your holidays, whether you want to explore archaeological sites, sit lazily in the sun or in traditional tavernas or go walking and biking. Crete
offers tremendous variety in splendid scenery and will undoubtedly bewitch you.
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