Villa Sfakaki

The delightful Villa Sfakaki is located in the tranquil village of Sfakaki, just fifteen minutes’ drive from Rethymno. It is a lovely resort which is very friendly and enjoys some good shops, a bakery, tavernas, cafes, bars and restaurants. The beach is wonderful with a long sweep of sand and lots of sun loungers and parasols. The beach is home to sea turtles that you might see if you are lucky. If you stick around for sunset or head up to your terraced balcony, you will be rewarded with brilliant sunsets that cast a dazzling red and orange glow across the sea. The village is surrounded by countryside and there are plenty of other beaches close by.

Rethymno is a wonderful city with beautiful architecture, much charm, a lively port and plenty of tourist amenities. You will pass by a fabulous helping of interesting shops and delicious restaurants to reach the Old Town that is crammed with ancient buildings. Whilst offering much to tourists, Rethymno has maintained its authentic Greek feel. You can head for the Venetian Fortezza to admire this amazing sand coloured citadel perched high above the shoreline and stroll among the fragrant pine trees that lead you past ornate chapels and churches. The architecture throughout Rethymno is very elegant and the port is bustling, lined with restaurants and bars. There are many boat trips that you can take.

If you head inland from Sfakaki, you will reach the 16th century Arkadi Monastery which stands alone on a plateau showcasing Baroque, Renaissance and Roman themes. The monastery is dedicated to the Transfiguration of the Saviour and the Saints Constantine and Helen. You can also visit the Monastery of Preveli or the Monastery of Arsaniou. The Ideon Cave, on the east side of Mount Ida, is also fascinating as according to mythology it is where Zeus grew up.  

Plakias is another wonderfully popular resort. You can pass through the breathtaking Kourtaliotiko Gorge arriving at the idyllic stunning bay of Plakias with its brilliant blue sea. Plakias is a former fishing village and now offers some wonderful tavernas, restaurants and bars.

The Palace of Knossos is where according to legend, the foundations of the Bronze Age city were filled with an inescapable labyrinth that was guarded by a vicious minotaur. The master craftsman Daedalus built the labyrinth for the mythical King Minos. His son, Theseus, slew the minotaur and found his way out of the labyrinth with the help of Minos’ daughter, Ariadne, according to legend. The palace flourished during the Minoan period as the religious centre of Crete. Thanks to the archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans’ excavation and careful restoration, the Palace of Knossos is one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in Greece.

Read more about Rethymno

On the northern coast of Crete, Rethymno is a beautifully preserved medieval town in Greece with such a rich heritage and exquisite Venetian mansions.

The old town is simply enchanting. Fall in love as you wander along flower-filled lanes with architecture from the Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman Empire eras. Shop to your heart’s delight admiring local crafts, jewellery, clothes and souvenirs, then cool off with a drink in a café on a pretty square lined with olive trees.

Take time to explore the Venetian fortress overlooking the old town, admire the 17th century Rimondi fountain with its flowing water, walk up to the 19th century lighthouse, then stroll along the Venetian harbourfront where seafood specialities and other Cretan dishes are served in such a picturesque setting.    

The 12km long blue-flagged city beach is a hive of activity in the summer months with watersports, sun beds, parasols, beachside bars and restaurants. Discover more remote shores a short drive from Rethymno such as Petres and Kamari Beach, both much-loved by keen snorkellers, or the iconic small bay at Spilies Beach with turquoise coloured sea.  

Embrace the authenticity of Sfakaki, a charming seaside village only 10km from Rethymno with an idyllic beach that sometimes attracts loggerhead turtles in the summer. Pass eucalyptus trees, olive trees and wild herbs until you reach Monastery of Saint George (Arsaniou) for a peaceful experience overlooking the sea. Further south, the Arkadi Gorge is in an incredible area for hiking, ending at the stunning Monastery of Arkadi.

Meanwhile, appreciate more wild landscapes a short distance from Rethymno as well as ancient Cretan villages. Climb the pathways of the incredible Melidoni Cave, especially welcome in the heat of the summer, or venture to Mili Gorge with its ancient mills, little waterfalls and rare flora. The old village of Margarites is famed for its Byzantine churches, Venetian houses and, since the Ottoman empire, pottery production – it makes a lovely day out only half an hour from town life in Rethymno.