Crete is not just an island. It's also a world in its own right, with mountains and seas, deserted beaches and cosmopolitan beaches, villages frozen in time and cities teeming with life, Venetian ports and palaces older than history itself. We've put together a few different reasons to convince you to holiday in Crete this year. (see map of Crete)

Randonner through gorge, and not just any gorge, but the mother of all hikes, the epic 18-kilometre Samaria (Samaria gorge)

Walking dans la mer, sur un fond rose de corail brisé, puis de couleur turquoise, et se retrouver sur une île déserte de sable blanc, à Elafonissi.

Getting bored away from the crowds, and discover the solitary version of paradise nearby, on the beach at Kedrodasos.

Losing yourself in the narrow streets of the old town of Chania, between colourful mansions and Venetian arches.

To discover a 4,000-year-old prehistoric city come to life before your very eyes at the archaeological site of Knoss

To taste to authentic traditional Cretan cuisine, one of the best on the planet.

To dive in the crystal-clear waters of Preveli's pebble beach, then walk along the river to the heart of the impressive small palm forest.

Watching le soleil se coucher derrière le phare emblématique en sirotant un verre, dans le port vénitien de La Canée.

Spread the towel your towel on the white sandy beach that juts out into the turquoise waters, far from the crowds, at Xerokampos.

Walking along Agiofarago and you'll find yourself on a deserted beach worthy of your summer dreams.

Feeling a bit like a hippy in Matala, and fall in love with the beach with its caves and village streets, dreaming of the days of the 60s.

Explore le magique château de Frangokastello, puis plonger dans la mer située juste à côté, où la légende veut que les fantômes des Drosoulites apparaissent.

Take the boat from Ierapetra to Chrissi, the small uninhabited island with a dream beach, with millions of colourful shells where others have only pebbles, and waters so emerald they seem artificial.

Spend une nuit à Loutro, un village de pêcheurs au bout du monde, au pied des montagnes et entouré de paysages époustouflants. Village accessible uniquement par bateau ou à pied, et se baigner dans la crique proche de Marmara ou de Glyka Nera. (voir carte de Crète)

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