Page 29 - Flipbook

VALUE Unexpected rewards
The economic pain in Greece is well publicised, so it’s no surprise that the number of tourists visiting the country has dropped. But travelling to a country during a recession
can bring unexpected rewards,
such as fewer tourists to contend experiences – mezze, ouzo and ancient archaeological wonders included.
Greece is a friendly and welcoming country, and its myriad islands offer something for everybody, from historical ruins to deserted beaches and ancient walled cities. The food is universally good, the weather fantastic and the sea in this balmy part of the Med is a thousand shades of aquamarine.
Here’s the lowdown on some of our favourite the main Greek islands:
Crete
Greece’s largest island is also one of its most interesting and makes for an ideal holiday base. With ancient, crumbling ruins scattered across hillsides, a stunning landscape of gorges, mountains and golden beaches, as well as a number of picturesque port towns, there’s plenty to keep you busy in Crete.
While much of the north coast has been overdeveloped, Crete is so large that it’s possible to take a barely-trodden path into the interior and come across isolated villages where tourism has yet to make its mark.
There’s plenty to uncover here too, the ancient ruins of the Bronze Age Palace of Knossos are a must-see. According to legend, King Minos once lived here and built a labyrinth beneath the palace to contain his son, the Minotaur.
Today, you can tour the site (though there’s no labyrinth to get lost in), but
it’s quite difficult to picture what this enormous palace, inhabited for almost 2000 years, would have looked like.
The Samaria Gorge in West Crete has become a tourist mecca. It’s a 16km-long gorge with sheer rock walls, cypress trees and crystal clear mountain streams that run all the way to the coast. It's well worth the hike, but be sure to set off before 7am when the coaches descend and thousands of tourists flock through the narrow pass.
Alternatively, there’s always the Imbros Gorge, 57 km southeast of Chania which attracts far fewer tourists and is every bit as beautiful. It’s also half the length of the Samarian Gorge, so much better suited to those who don’t make a habit of hiking.
The atmospheric Venetian port of Chania is regarded as the most beautiful city in Crete – some say in all of Greece.
Its multi-coloured houses and the narrow lanes of the old town invite lazy exploration. Stroll along the harbour and stop for dinner at one of the many restaurants with outdoor terraces, or shop in the old town for locally made artisanal products including olive oil, wine and leather goods.
For some pampering, head to Elounda to try thalassotherapy (sea hydrotherapy and algae wraps are a speciality) at one of the many world-class spas.
Spyros Taverna in Gouves is highly recommended by foodies seeking
great Greek food at a reasonable price. The views from the terrace here are a highlight, as is the owner’s sense
of humour.
For something higher end, Swell
in Kokkini fits the bill nicely. This
is Michelin-starred Greek food in a sophisticated setting, making it the ideal spot for a celebratory meal.
ENDLESS VACATION 27