There are so many beautiful places on the planet to vacation that it is sometimes difficult to choose where to go. No matter the continent, you can find idyllic places to spend some time and make a few memories. But If you want to go to a place where you can enjoy beautiful beaches with crystal clear water, fantastic food, a storied history, lots of culture, and that is one of the most romantic destinations, your choices get narrowed pretty quickly to a few coveted spots.
Perhaps the number one place that fits this description is the country of Greece and its beautiful island city Crete. For those who come to Crete and experience the activities, the food, the atmosphere, and the Crete vacation rentals, they will discover why a Crete vacation is truly a Greece vacation, meaning it will be romantic and filled with one of a kind adventures.
Making this argument about Greece is easy when you consider that the first romantic writings were made in Greece and the Greek God of love Eros has been the figure who inspired lovers more than 2,000 years ago. For the millennia that has followed, writers, poets, artists and those looking to learn more about love have flocked to this country to express themselves.
Why Do Lovers Come to Greece?
They come to this romantic country with picturesque backdrops to be inspired. This is one of the reason that Greece is still so popular today. In fact, Greece is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the world. The entire country feels geared to new couples. With its combination of old and new culture, and an emphasis on pampering visitors, newlyweds are made to feel welcomed and special. Also, the country is set up to make an unforgettable start to a marriage.
But the special times are not just reserved for newlyweds. Coming here on an anniversary or just for a romantic getaway is equally satisfying. There is so much to do and see here that each moment is one for you and your partner to treasure.
Crete, the Largest Greek Island
Crete is the largest Island in Greece and the fifth largest Island in the Mediterranean. It has the Aegean Sea at its North and the Mediterranean Sea at its South East and West and from the island you can view Europe, Africa and the Middle East.
The topography in Crete is mostly mountainous, and its look is defined by a high mountain range crossing from west to east, formed by three different groups of mountains: The White Mountains, the Idi Range, and the Dikti Mountains. They bless Crete with beautiful valleys, including the Amari valley, lush and fertile plateaus such as Lasithi plateau, spectacular caves including Gourgouthakas and Idaion, and a number of breathtaking gorges.
Crete has a Mediterranean climate meaning the weather can be quite warm and humid, depending on how close you are to the sea, while winter months are fairly mild. There is some snowfall on the mountains but snow on the flatlands during the winter is rare. The Cretan summer average temperatures reach the mid 80s, to mid 90s Fahrenheit or 30s to 40s Celsius.
Things to do in Crete
Crete is divided into four areas called Prefectures. They are: Lasithi, Chania Rethymno and the largest which is Heraklion Prefecture. Crete has lots to do in terms of culture and activities all over the island, but the most popular and best places to stay are Chania and Lasithi Prefectures. Here are some wonderful things to do there:
Chania Prefecture
Visit Lake Kournas
Lake Kournas is the only fresh water lake in Crete and it hides in a valley among green, rolling hills. You can rent a paddle boat with your loved one and explore this small lake for a few hours. The water is calm and the backdrop is gorgeous. It is the perfect time for relaxing and taking in the sights.
A Samariá Gorge Trek
Perhaps the most sought after attraction for tourists on the island is the Samariá Gorge. This national park offers a seven hour relaxing hike through the gorge from the Omalos plateau to Agia Roumeli. The hike takes some time, but you and your loved one will be rewarded with a great hike through lush landscapes and views that are the best on the island.
Balos Beach
For an experience with lots of other tourists, you have to visit Balos Beach which is the most beautiful beach on Crete and is located on the very western tip of Crete past Kissamos. The entrance leads to a dirt road that takes you to a parking area and then a walk to the beach. This is the perfect blue water and the ideal way to spend the day with your loved one. So bring a lunch and be prepared to relax.
Lasithi Prefecture – Things to do
Stay in Elounda
The main resort area in Lasithi Prefecture is Elounda. This community is known as the most high-end on the island and when celebrities come to Crete you will more than likely find them here. It is also the magnet for rich honeymooners with lots of cash to spend. There are great five star resorts here, quiet pebble beaches, and calm and clear water that offers great views of the tiny island of Spinalonga.
Visit the Lasithi Plateau
The Lasithi Plateau is a beautiful, populated with a few small traditional Greek villages, and dotted with real windmills. These are the actual white sail type harkening back to thousands of years ago when the farmers used them for power. It is an amazing site to see so bring your cameras and be prepared to take some great shots.
Throughout the island there is also ruins from Ancient that have been unearthed and give you glimpses of the Minoan culture that was prevalent throughout the island eons ago. You also have to experience the delicious local Greek food. There are restaurants, cafes and other eateries everywhere you venture. And of course Crete is the perfect place to watch the Greek sunset which many say is the best in the world.
If you are looking for the ideal romantic vacation, you have to choose Greece.