YOUR HOLIDAY IN CRETE

THE HISTORICAL BIT

 Crete is Europe's oldest civilisation : Minoans, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Turks and Germans ; with brief Arab and Egyptian forays. The island has a history hallmarked by long and bloody cycles of conquest, heroic resistance and war.

Less well known is the fact that Crete was one of the earliest naval powers, and that a Cretan was crowned Pope in 1409. It has a myriad of archeological treasures, likened to the grandeur of Florence by a visiting 15 century Italian scholar. Today, many visitors are drawn to Crete by its Tuscan charm rather than for its Costa del Sol sun and sand.

The island offers visitors great opportunities to experience a wide range of holiday experiences. It enjoys being the largest Greek island ; It sits between the continents of Europe, Africa and Asia ; it has 300 days of sunshine ; a  richer fauna and flora than many Mediterranean areas ; a historical legacy that ranges from early civilisations to the more recent legacies of wars and leper colonies ; and a 1000km plus coastline that offers restful picturesque coves and abundant water sports.

RELAXING BY THE POOL

Some of our guests never get beyond this stage and  have the ultimate chill out holiday commuting between Mandarin Grove and the 7 Tavernas.  No responsibilities or fixed meal times often suits those with hectic lives at home

 

relax by the pool at Mandarin Grove

The pool area is very private being next to the wooded park and orange groves. It has a glorious mountain backdrop and you are close to Daisy. The bakery in the village has fresh supplies everyday so that you can sit at the tables and enjoy your lunch. There is a communal barbeque and guests often enjoy bringing in local vegetables ; meat or fish to cook their meal. There is also a good selection in Carrefour. Play your cards right and Paul will do a barbecue for all the guests for a very small charge.

 

THE VILLAGE  OF FODELE 

 the old plane tree is a landmark in the village (take spooky photos at night!)

Daisy is situated at the heart of an authentic Cretan village.  Its  many attractions include  the local Churches which are of historical interest as well as being the centre of village life.

 

the old 11 century Church of the Panagia (taken in March)

 It is very small but  it is in regular use. Adjoining the 11 century Church,  the original Font of the earlier 8 century church can be seen. The Church can be reached  along a very pleasant walk, featuring fine views of the countrside.

 

 looking back towards Fodele from the old Church (taken in March )

 

The Byzantine Church lies at the heart of the village.It lies next door to Daisy and it can be seen from many landmarks in the village

 

The Byzantine Church from the high street

 

 take a short walk to view Fodele in its mountainous setting

 

 selling locally made tapestries in the High Street

 

photo taken by Paul Jeans showing Fodele at night

 

locals enjoying a barbecue over Easter weekend 2010

 

THE GASTRONOMIC DELIGHTS OF THE VILLAGE

There are over eight very good tavernas offering a variety of genuine Cretan cuisine. They will really tickle your palate and you will enjoy all the contrasts. They are all close by, within easy walking distance. 

We strongly suggest that you sample as many as your schedule permits. Many of our guests use Domenicos as the social base. Thet find themselves so well looked after by the wonderful Smoothy and his lovely wife Eva, that they do not venture anywhere else !!  

DOMENICOS is owned by Smoothy George and it lies at the heart of the village. he is a wonderful host and speaks very good English. The menu is characteristic of a Bistro and an extract can be seen below

 

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  menu at Smoothy George's Bistro (taken March'10)

 

Next door is BIG GEORGE'S RESTAURANT.  It is a favourite of ours, being excellent value and quality. He uses the barbecue for his lamb chops and steaks. Big George does not speak English but he is a good man and much respected by the local people.

 

My favourite is the mixed grill whilst my wife loves the lamb chops (taken Mar.'10)

A new restaurant has just opened (see photo below) and it is only 20m from Mandarin Grove. It is beautifully finished by the owner himself. The decor is in true Cretan style and it is very much a family affair. We went on Good Friday 2010 and we could only sample the Greek Salad as they are forbidden to eat meat in Easter week.

 

New restaurant near Mandarin Grove taken from across the river

 

 THE LOCAL COVES AND RESORTS

 

Lygaria is a quieter picturesque bay. However, if you are interested in diving, then there is a school on the beach. You can contact them at www.eurodiving.net or email them at admin@eurodiving.net

 

The cove at Lygaria

 

 EXPLORE THE FAMOUS ARCHEOLOGICAL SITE AT KNOSSUS

 

The photograph below illustrates the fact that Crete is also steeped in history and you can visit numerous archeological sites such as Knossus.

 

 contrasting views at Knossus archeological site

Your visit to  Phaistos will also experience wonderful views such as the one below taken in April  2008. You can see the snow on the mountain tops. The same view is highlighted at the top of the page.

 

The Minoan Palace at Phaistos had a commanding view

 

 THE FORMER LEPER COLONY AT SPINALONGA

There is also much to see in the recent history of Crete. You may have read the book called "the island" by Victoria Hislop. It is a fascinating story of this former leper colony, and a copy is in Daisy's library. The journey is a straightforward, scenic, drive along the northern highway to the village of Plaka and the island  of Spinalonga. You may wish to use your visit as an opportunity to visit Agios Nickolaos en route.

 

 views at Plaistos and Spinalonga

 

 RESORTS FURTHER AFIELD

Bali shown below is very picturesque particularly when the pirate ship visits. It can get very crowded at peak times, but it is very peaceful in April and October

 

 

The train shown below takes you to the various connecting coves in Bali and is very popular with children and grown up children.

 

 

 

THE CAPITAL CITY OF HERAKLION

Heraklion is the capital of Crete and it is within easy reach. The city fully deserves its reputation as one of the Mediterranean's most attractive capitals. It is also a shopping paradise for lovers of fashion and furnishings. The port of Heraklion shown below is also worth a visit to view or to use the ferry services available.

 

 The port of Heraklon 

 

 ACTIVITY DAYS FOR YOUNG AND YOUNGISH ALIKE.

There are numerous opportunities for you ranging from watersports at Fodele Beach and Lygaria to mention a few places. Alternatively for the hardy people you may wish to walk the Samaria Gorge

 

contrasting views of Fodele Beach

The photograph above shows the nearby Fodele Beach which is less than 2 miles down the road. it is one of the most attractive in the area. it offers a variety of water sports or you can simply chill out using the free deck chairs.There are numerous tavernas lining the front where you can eat at your leisure whilst admiring the great views. The service managers can take you down to the beach for a nominal charge of 3 euros.

if you wish to contact me by email :      pvjones42@gmail.com

www.holidayhomecrete.com