ALTERNATIVE NAMES: Crete, Kriti

ISLAND GROUP: N/A, Crete is almost a land in its own right and offers almost every type of scenery and terrain.

GEOGRAPHY: The climate is excellent and tourism thrives here. The island is approximately 264km long and averages 55km in width, with an area of about 8,200 km sq. Mountain ranges form east to west barriers. Once extensively forested, the island is now only lightly wooded. There is an abundance of flora and the island is an ornithologists paradise.

POPULATION: About 500,000

SPECIALITIES: Yoghurt; tighanites - pancakes covered with honey & sesame seeds; Cretan wine, including Minos, Gortinos & Kissamos; Mandareeni - a tangerine liqueur; Raki - a stronger ouzo; herbal tea; embroidery.

ADMIN: Administratively the island is divided in to quarters from west to east as follows.

REGIONS:
Chania is the largest and most important town of western Crete Greece and the capital of the western part. Even if it is a quite big city with 60,000 inhabitants, Chania has kept its authenticity and its local colours. The traditional old quarters, the colourful houses, the narrow alleys and the flowered gardens are embellishing the city and make it an ideal place to enjoy well-organised and exciting holidays. Airport.

Heraklion is the capital of Crete Greece, its larger urban centre and the economical centre of the island. It offers all the possible touristy facilities and activities and an exciting nightlife. Many archaeological sites can be visited in Heraklion as well as beautiful churches. Concerning culture and entertainment, Heraklion is particularly rich, especially in summer when cultural events are organized all around the city. Airport.

Lassithi is a municipality which is part of the island of Crete Greece. It has many archaeological sites to visit as well as many beautiful caves and gorges. Some dovecotes and wonderful churches can also be seen in the area. According to mythology, this area is the birthplace of Zeus. The town of Lassithi is a lovely town with a wide range of touristy facilities and activities to offer to the visitor.

Rethymno is one of the main cities of Crete Greece and one of the loveliest too. It is divided into the Old Town and the New Town which are both delightful. The old part of Rethymno is particularly beautiful, full with old buildings and stone-paved narrow alleys. A huge Venetian fortress is overlooking the city, adding a touch of mystery. An endless sandy beach and the impressive gorge of Kourtaliotiko are worth visiting.