Exploring Crete: Ryan’s Top 10 Favorite Places

Exploring Crete: Ryan’s Top 10 Favorite Places” promises an enriching journey through one of Greece’s most stunning islands. From the sparkling waters of Elafonissi Beach to the historical depths of Spinalonga fortress, Ryan takes you to the most enchanting spots Crete has to offer. This guide highlights not just the breathtaking natural beauty but also the rich history that each location holds.

In this travel guide, Ryan Shirley brings to life the charm of Crete through must-visit places like the serene Lake Kournas and the bustling historical city of Chania. Discover hidden gems like Seitan Limania, a secluded beach perfect for adventure seekers, or marvel at the blend of history and scenery at Rethymno. Be prepared to fall in love with Crete’s diverse landscapes and ancient stories.

Chania

Located on the northwestern side of Crete

Nestled on the northwestern side of Crete, you’ll find Chania, a town that feels like an open history book. As you move through its scenic streets, Chania reveals layer after layer of storied pasts from different eras. You can almost hear whispers from ancient civilizations that once thrived here. You’ll notice the Venetian and Turkish influences in the architecture, from the grand arches to the vibrant rooftops. As you saunter along the town, the vibe is unmistakably that of a place that has absorbed and embraced various cultural currents over time.

Known for its history, beautiful architecture, Venetian and Turkish influences

Chania’s historical richness unfolds with every corner you turn. You’ll come across relics that narrate tales from the past, a testament to the town’s Venetian and Turkish influences. The narrow alleys are home to beautiful, old buildings, with one structure grander than the next. Venetian architecture particularly stands out, giving you the feeling of being transported back into another era. Turkish elements add a unique flavor, making the aesthetic a delightful blend of east and west. You’ll want to keep your camera ready because every turn here has the charm of a different century.

Features a scenic harbor and a historic lighthouse

And then there’s the harbor, the heartbeat of Chania. Picture yourself standing by the water, the sun casting a golden glow over the scene. The picturesque harbor, rich in Venetian architecture, is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. Everything revolves around this bustling yet tranquil spot where boats bob gently on the azure waters. Marking one end of the harbor is the historic lighthouse, standing tall and weathered. Its original structure dates back to the 1500s, with each brick telling stories of seafarers and changing rulers. Walking along the causeway to the lighthouse, you can’t help but feel part of something timeless, with the sea breeze weaving tales in your ear.

Seitan Limania

A beautiful beach in a hidden cove, about 30 minutes from Chania

Just a 30-minute drive from Chania lies Seitan Limania, a treasure trove tucked away in a secluded cove. As you zigzag your way down a rugged path, the hidden beauty gradually reveals itself. You’ll see vibrant pink flowers lining the way, adding a touch of magic to your descent. Upon reaching the bottom, a small, pristine beach welcomes you. The cove is cradled by sheer cliffs, making it feel like you’ve stumbled upon a little secret shared only by a lucky few.

Clear waters perfect for swimming and cliff jumping

The water here is as clear as crystal. You’ll be inclined to just dive right in, feeling the cool, refreshing embrace of the sea. Seitan Limania is not just about simple swimming; it’s a haven for the adventurous sort. Watching others leap off cliffs, you might feel a surge of adrenaline coaxing you to join. The heights aren’t intimidatingly high, making it possible to safely attempt your own jumps and flips. But if jumping isn’t your thing, you can simply float, marveling at the clarity of the water around you. Either way, it’s a place that leaves an imprint on your memory.

Lake Kournas

The only freshwater lake in Crete, located 45 minutes from Chania

Moving inland, about 45 minutes from Chania, lies Lake Kournas. It’s a tranquil gem that surprises you with its charm. The fact that it’s the only freshwater lake on the entire island lends it a unique status. The stillness of the lake is almost meditative. You’ll notice its striking color, a mesmerizing blend of light green near the shore, transitioning to a deep, dark blue towards the center. This natural beauty stands in beautiful contrast to the surrounding rugged mountains.

Known for its striking color and paddle boating activities

One of the most delightful activities here is paddle boating. Renting a boat, you can glide over the calm waters, becoming part of the serene landscape. It’s a fantastic way to fully appreciate the lake’s vivid hues and the gentle, rhythmic sounds of nature. Walking along the lake’s edge can be equally enchanting. You’re sure to find a peaceful spot where you can sit, relax, and let time slow down, enveloped by the lake’s serene beauty.

Rethymno

Historical city about an hour from Chania, featuring Venetian architecture

About an hour’s drive from Chania, you’ll encounter Rethymno, a city that elegantly balances its historical roots with modern allure. As you walk its streets, the city feels like a more intimate, perhaps less hurried Chania. Rethymno’s history stretches back to the days of the Minoans, and this rich tapestry is evident in its many well-preserved structures. It retains a Venetian charm that whispers of the past while blending seamlessly into the present.

Home to Fortezza, a well-preserved fortress from the 16th century

A highlight is the Fortezza, a fortress originally built in the 16th century by the Venetians. Wandering through its ancient corridors and peering over its battlements, you can’t help but imagine what it must have been like to live and defend such a place. The views from up here are breathtaking, offering a panoramic glimpse into both the city and the sea. Rethymno’s picturesque harbor, with its lighthouse from the 1800s, adds an additional layer of scenic charm, making the town feel like a hidden treasure waiting to be explored.

Spinalonga

An island fortress turned into a leper colony, reachable by boat

Spinalonga is an island that captures the imagination, reachable only by boat, ensuring it remains an adventure right from the start. This fortress island has seen various transformations, the most poignant being its time as a leper colony in the early 20th century. As you step onto the island, it feels like you’re walking into a living museum. The buildings and walls, weathered by time, stand as silent witnesses to the island’s multifaceted history.

Notable for its fortified walls and historical significance

The fortified walls that encircle Spinalonga are awe-inspiring. They hark back to a time when the island needed to defend itself from Turkish invaders. As you explore these fortifications, each stone seems to whisper stories of battles fought and lives lived. Walking through the remnants of the leper colony, you can almost feel the lingering sense of resilience and community that once thrived here. It’s a journey through layers of history that’s both humbling and enlightening.

Agios Nikolaos

Scenic port town nearby Spinalonga, known for its picturesque lake

Just 30 minutes south of Spinalonga lies Agios Nikolaos, a serene port town that feels like it’s been plucked from a postcard. One of the town’s most enchanting features is its picturesque lake, known as Voulismeni. This body of water isn’t just any lake; local legends claim it’s bottomless, adding a touch of mystery to its already captivating beauty. The lake connects to the sea via a narrow inlet, creating a charming setting for leisurely walks or quiet reflections.

Preveli Beach & Hilltop Church

Unique beach with a palm forest and a nearby hilltop church offering panoramic views

On the southern side of Crete, an hour and a half from Chania, you’ll find Preveli Beach. What makes this beach uniquely mesmerizing is its palm forest. The forest flanks a river that flows into the sea, creating a stunning natural blend of greenery and azure waters. Accessing the beach involves descending about 400 steps, but every step is worth it as the view unfurls before you. The juxtaposition of the river and the sea creates an exotic, almost otherworldly landscape.

Nearby, perched atop a hill, is the church of Ecclesia Timios Stavros. The hike up to this church is an adventure in itself, but upon reaching the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of southern Crete. The church, with its simple, whitewashed walls, stands in sharp contrast to the vast, colorful landscape. It’s a place where you can sit, catch your breath, and let the beauty around you sink in.

Matala

Known for its artificial caves and historical significance

Heading westward, about an hour and a half from Preveli, you’ll arrive at Matala, a beach town with a whimsical past. What sets Matala apart are the artificial caves carved into the cliffside. These caves date back to Roman times and were later adopted by hippies in the 1960s, turning Matala into a free-spirited retreat. Wandering through these caves, you can feel a dichotomy of history and the counterculture vibes that still linger.

Popular in the 1960s as a hippie retreat

The beach itself is inviting with its golden sands and clear waters, but it’s the caves that steal the show. You can explore these caverns, some of which were used as ancient tombs, and let your imagination run wild. As evening falls, the atmosphere becomes almost magical, with the setting sun casting long shadows and illuminating the sandstone in hues of orange and pink. Matala is a place where history and legend coalesce, giving you a deep sense of belonging to something bigger.

Gavdos

The southernmost island of Greece and Europe

For the ultimate adventure, take a journey to Gavdos, the southernmost island of Greece and Europe. This remote island is accessible by a 2 to 4-hour ferry ride from towns like Paleochora or Chora Sfakion. Gavdos feels like the edge of the world, offering unparalleled seclusion and a raw, untouched beauty.

Notable for Cape Tripiti, featuring rock arches and a giant chair

The island’s most famed feature is Cape Tripiti, the southernmost point of Europe. Here you’ll find natural rock arches that jut out into the sea, forming picturesque passageways you can navigate by kayak. The whimsical giant chair perched at the cape adds a quirky charm and serves as a marker for Europe’s southern extremity. To reach Cape Tripiti involves a rewarding hike, and once there, the endless sea views and tranquil setting make every step worthwhile.