5 Best Things To Do In Crete For Ultimate Relaxation
If you're in search of a digital detox and a few weeks to reconnect with nature take a trip to the sun-kissed island of Crete. Here you'll find plenty of opportunities to relax and rejuvenate whilst taking in the breathtaking landscape, a blend of golden coast and rocky mountains. To help you plan your perfect escape on this Greek island, here are the best things to do in Crete for the ultimate relaxation.
1: Bask On Elafonisi Beach
First on our list of the best places to go in Crete is Elafonisi Beach. Located on the island's western coast, make sure to bring your camera as you'll not want to miss capturing the Champagne pink coral sand and crystal clear waters. One of our top tips is to walk barefoot across the beach to reconnect with the ground, before choosing a quiet spot to enjoy the sunset. Although if you visit Crete during the summer months, make sure to visit Elafonisi Beach in the early hours of the morning to avoid the crowds.
2: Take A Step Back In Time At Knossos Palace
Since your mind will be missing its typical daily dose of social media during a digital detox, make sure to feed it by visiting Knossos Palace. As a significant Bronze Age archaeological site, you'll be able to take a step back in time as you explore the former palace. Built by the Minoans, an ancient civilization, this site was excavated in the early 20th century and restored by a team led by British archaeologist Arthur Evans. Wander around under the Greek sun and feed your mind, body and soul!
3: Learn To Scuba Dive
One of the best things to do in Crete for those who enjoy being in the water is to learn to scuba dive. Crete is blessed with warm, calm waters and this makes learning to dive even more magical. By booking a dive course when you visit Crete, you can unlock a whole new underwater world and visit diving hotspots such as Elephant’s Cave and Karpathos for must-see shipwrecks. One of the most popular diving areas on the island is Chania, where you’ll be able to swim past rocky reefs as you admire the abundance of marine life, that could even compete with the Red Sea. There is nothing quite like the feeling of bobbing along underwater, as you watch a new world come to life right before your eyes!
4: Wine Tasting & Olive Trees
For those who enjoy fine-dining and organic produce, what better way to spend your time in Crete than visiting the world’ oldest olive tree as you embark upon a wine tasting tour. For a bespoke and more authentic experience, make sure to book a local guide who will be able to plan a unique tour that reveals the history and heritage behind winemaking and olive oil production across the island. This is certainly a relaxing way to learn about the island whilst sampling local produce as you do!
5: Hike the White Mountains
Last but not least, on our list of the best places to go in Crete, is the White Mountains that provide a thrilling backdrop for thrill-seekers. While you might not think hiking as the ultimate way to relax, exercising will help lift your mood and enhance your quality of sleep. So, as you take on the White Mountains and brave the heat whilst reconnecting with nature, the next day, you will feel brand new!. Lefka Ori (the White Mountains) will push you physically, and it is best to set aside a full day to complete one of the popular hiking trails. Just make sure to wear appropriate footwear, pack enough water to keep you well hydrated and a small snack for a much needed energy boost! You can thank us later!
<< Previous article: Welcome to Kamilari!
>> Next article: Crete Beaches: 5 Sandy Spots You Simply Shouldn’t Miss