Taking a holiday that involves walking in Crete can allow you to see this incredible island in an entirely new light, seeing and experiencing things you may otherwise have missed.
Cretan history
This island is so steeped in a history woven into the very landscape it is almost impossible to know where to begin. Here are just a few observations to whet your appetite:
? It is the home of Europe's first known civilisation (the Minoans).
? The earliest-known palace ever constructed in Europe, is on Crete.
? It boasts the first-ever road constructed in the whole of Europe (parts are still visible today).
? The ruins of the palace complex at Knossos offer a stunning insight into the fascinating and mysterious Minoan culture.
There are so many interesting towns, villages, churches and architectural ruins to see whilst walking in Crete, that your only difficulty may be in choosing which to see and which to miss in the time available!
Cretan culture
Although at heart, Crete is predominantly a Greek culture, it nevertheless has its own unique aspects. During its history, Crete has been independent, ruled by Ottoman Turks, the Venetians and the Byzantine Empire, and eventually incorporated into the Greek state in 1901. As you might imagine, all of these peoples and cultures have contributed to today's Cretan culture with its wide diversity of customs and cuisines. As you make your way through the countryside, walking in Crete, much of this culture is laid before you in a magical melting pot of colour and food.
Cretan geography
The island has an extensive mountain range that runs along its length, with flatter plains running down to the Mediterranean Sea in the north. It is the northern coastline that contains the majority of the best beaches and the developed resorts such as Agios Nikolaos. The southern coastline tends to be wilder, rockier and far less developed. Winters can be grey and damp and, particularly in the higher elevations, chilly. By contrast, summers are typically dry and hot.
Why take a holiday walking in Crete?
The answer to this depends very much upon the sort of holiday you enjoy. As with many Mediterranean islands, Crete has an established tourist industry. This means in some developed resorts on the north coast, it can become busy at the height of the season.
Yet just outside of those same resorts, even at the most popular times of the year, walking in Crete slightly off the beaten track you will find peace, tranquility and some fascinating sights. For example, there are many beautiful monasteries on Crete that are set high up in the hills and difficult to access other than on a guided walk. Through the mountains there are also some magnificent walking trails - for example, the Mili gorge where you will be able to see ancient watermills and a beautiful convent (Agia Irini founded in the year 981) set in some breathtaking countryside.
Holidays involving walking in Crete do not have to be too demanding and there are itineraries available to suit all ages and fitness levels. Using your own two feet will enable you to see the side of Crete that normal tourists may miss in their hired cars or buses.
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/6316718
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