Visit Greece The True Experience

Crete is far from being just another Greek island. Its rich history, natural beauty and proud people have given it a unique character. It is over 240 kilometres in length, with a spectacular coastline and beaches to suit all tastes. As the most southerly of the Greek islands, its longer summer means that they can be enjoyed to the full from April to November. Inland, mountains snowcapped until June, gorges gushing with water, and the famous profusion of wild flowers - many unique to Crete - make the early summer, in particular, irresistible to those who appreciate natural beauty. A choice of unspoilt local sandy beaches display the blue flag for cleanliness and safety. So if you want to visit Greece for your holidays and have the true experience of villas in Greece or on the Greek islands then look no further than Crete.

The home of the earliest Western civilisation, Crete boasts the great Minoan cities of Knossos and Phaestos and also many smaller ancient ruins. For those who want to explore its more 'recent' history, Byzantine churches, Venetian castles and Turkish minarets provide endless fascination. The distinctive music, dance and good food which play such an important part in Cretan life can all be shared by visitors. It is in the west of Crete - in village locations far from the developed tourist centres in the east of the island - that Pure Crete is to be found.

The principal town of the area is Chania, a Venetian port, whose attractive and lively harbour provides the perfect setting for an evening stroll before dinner at one of the many waterfront tavernas. Behind the harbour a maze of narrow back streets links with a mixture of old Venetian and Turkish houses, often stunningly decorated with hanging flowers. Five minutes' walk away is Chania's covered market, well-known for the wide variety of fresh produce on offer. Nearby, local handicraft shops provide a good place to find handmade leather goods, rugs and lace.