Holiday Villa Location on Crete
Climate
Crete enjoys a typically Mediterranean climate with mild
winters, hot, dry summers and approx. 3,000 hours of sunshine per year. Average
temperatures range from a winter low of 12 degrees C in January rising slowly
to 21 degrees C in May and 27 degrees C in July. The autumn average is around
21 degrees with temperatures in December around 14 degrees C.
The gorge of Samaria (right and left) is situated in the National park of Samaria, in the White Mountains in West Crete and is said to be the longest gorge in Europe.
(Click images to enlarge)
Flora & Fauna, Forests, Mountains
There are around 2,000 species of plants on the island (157 of them being indigenous
to Crete) and some of these you will only otherwise find in Africa and Asia.
Pine forests, gorges, cavern pits and plateaux also feature on the island and
views of the magnificent mountains can be enjoyed from many places including
our villa "Petrino Dream".
Beaches, Villages & Towns
Almerida - is two kilometres away from the villa; here you'll
find a lovely beach and lots of tavernas along the sea front selling local fresh
fish and Cretian specialities. There is also a bakery selling delicious pastries
and fresh bread - well worth a visit. There are also supermarkets and gift shops
selling local wares which stay open until late. Right:
Almerida Beach
Plaka - It is approx. one kilometre to the village of Plaka
from our villa and here you will find local tavernas and a supermarket.
Kokkino Chorio - this historic village is a wonderful base from which to go sightseeing or simply
to enjoy a relaxing holiday on the island of Crete. The peaceful narrow lanes,
old houses and the village square were made famous some 30 years ago when they
became backdrops for parts of the well-known 'Zorba the Greek' movie.
Chania - known for its beautiful Venetian harbour, this old port is the town with the nearest airport to our villa - approx. half an hour by car. Chania (pronounced Hania) has an abundance of old historic buildings, churches, museums and craft shops with superb local produce on offer.
There
are also numerous cafes and restaurants where food of a great variety is
served. The atmosphere in Chania has a touch of Florence and at different
times of day, the light produces different effects on the water and historic
surroundings and adds to the magical ambience. Chania is the main centre
of western Crete.
Left: The Harbour at Chania
Historical Interest
World War II remnants - there are many historic remnants from the war and a
fascinating afternoon can be spent exploring these ruins and visiting the caves,
most noticeable of which are the 'Elephant Caves' with their beautiful stalagmites
and stalactites of various shapes and colours. The War Cemetery at Souda Bay
is also well worth a visit.