Crete: The Island That Isn’t What You Expect – It’s Better
- Le Monocle Voyageur
- Feb 3
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 10
If you thought you knew Crete, think again. This isn’t just an island – it’s a living tapestry of ancient myth, wild landscapes, and unpredictable experiences. Forget about the picture-perfect postcard images of blue skies and tranquil beaches. Crete is raw, unapologetically ancient, and brimming with secrets. It’s an island where the wild mountain ranges and crystal-clear waters hold stories that date back thousands of years, yet the future is written on every cobblestone street and modern café.
Crete isn’t a “beach-and-bask” kind of place. It’s a place to get lost in time, where revolutionary culture, unexpected gastronomic delights, and daring adventures are the only rules. So, if you’re prepared to drop the usual travel clichés and dive into something unexpected, Crete will surprise you at every turn.
Where to Stay: Beyond the Ordinary
1. Phaea Blue, a member of SLH | Elounda, Crete – Imagine waking up in a villa, with the Aegean Sea sprawled before you, the spine of Spinalonga Island rising from the horizon. The Blue Palace isn’t just about luxury; it’s a plunge into the serenity of ancient landscapes, framed by a modern touch. The private infinity pools, floating suites, and the in-house spa designed for deep rejuvenation will make you feel like royalty.
Address: Plaka, Elounda, Crete, Greece
Website: https://phaeablue.com/
2. Domes of Elounda (Elounda) – Nestled by the quiet bay of Elounda, this resort offers one thing in abundance: sophistication with a twist. The luxury bungalows and villas are steeped in Cretan tradition, but designed with cutting-edge comfort. Private dining by the sea, incredible spa treatments, and a serene ambiance make it an unmissable destination.
Address: Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, 72053 Crete, Greece
Where to Eat: A Culinary Odyssey That Defies Expectations
Crete isn’t just a food destination – it’s a gastronomic playground, where every meal is an invitation to adventure. Traditional Cretan food is built on ancient recipes passed down from Minoan times, yet chefs here are redefining the island’s flavors, mixing modernity with mythology.
1. To Stachi (Chania) – To Stachi isn’t just a place to eat. It’s an emotional experience for your taste buds. The menu focuses on Cretan organic produce—think herbs, cheeses, and olives—each bite a tribute to the island’s ancient agricultural roots. You’ll savor the grilled lamb that melts in your mouth, and wild greens that taste like they’ve been plucked from an ancient garden.
Address: 36 Sifaka St., Chania, Crete
2. Peskesi (Heraklion) – Peskesi turns the traditional into something radically new. The ambiance is a blend of rustic Cretan charm with a modern Mediterranean twist. Locally sourced meats, organic vegetables, and an incredible selection of Cretan wine will leave you wondering if you’ve ever really tasted true Greek food before. The rabbit with rosemary? It’s what Cretan legends are made of.
Address: 66 Skalidi St., Heraklion, Crete
Website: https://peskesicrete.gr/el
3 Avli (Rethymno) – For a more eclectic approach to Cretan flavors, Avli in Rethymno is a must. From the pistachio-crusted lamb to the local cheese samosas, each dish is a concoction of tradition, modernity, and daring innovation. The ambiance, tucked in an atmospheric courtyard, offers the kind of dining experience you don’t soon forget.
Address: 16-18 25th Martiou St., Rethymno, Crete
Website: https://www.avli.gr/
What to Do: Unexpected Thrills and Hidden Treasures
Crete is far more than its beaches (although they are absolutely stunning). It’s a place for exploration—where every mountain pass, every ancient stone, and every hidden cove unveils the wild spirit of the island. Here’s your guide to the unexpected.
1. Discover the Palace of Knossos (Heraklion) – Step inside one of Europe’s most significant archaeological sites, where Minoan history comes to life. Knossos isn’t just about ruins – it’s a journey back in time, filled with murals, myths, and an ancient palace that could have inspired the very legends you’ve heard about. Don’t just look at it – live it.
2. Hike Samaria Gorge (Chania) – Want to feel like you’ve walked into another world? The Samaria Gorge is a hidden gem that demands attention. A 13-kilometer trek through towering cliffs, lush forests, and wild riverbeds leads to a hidden paradise. This isn’t a walk in the park—this is nature at its most ferocious, and it’s waiting for you.
3. The Secluded Beach at Elafonissi (Chania) – Elafonissi is the unexpected beach of your dreams. Forget crowded resorts; this is a long stretch of golden sand washed by turquoise waters. If you’re looking for peace and beauty, then this is where the Mediterranean reveals its most delicate face. Come for the sand, stay for the silence.
When to Visit: The Magic of Crete’s Seasons
Crete can be visited year-round, but the seasons unfold in dramatic ways here. Spring (March to May) is when Crete’s wildflowers bloom, and the island feels like a fresh canvas of color. If you’re seeking perfect weather without the crowd, Autumn (September to November) offers warm sunshine, crisp air, and an intoxicating tranquility.
However, if you’re drawn to the island’s famous festivals and the bustling summer vibe, the summer months (June to August) bring life to every corner. Just be prepared – this is when the island pulses with the energy of adventurers, food lovers, and those seeking the unique thrill of Cretan culture.
Crete: More Than a Destination – A Revelation
There’s an almost magical force that makes Crete unforgettable. Whether it’s the landscapes, the food, or the stories hidden in the rocks, this island challenges you to redefine travel. Every moment you spend here feels like a chance to discover something new and mysterious, yet timelessly captivating. So pack your bags, leave the clichés behind, and prepare to let Crete surprise you. Because this isn’t your ordinary island escape – it’s the island that changes the way you see the world.
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