What does Crete look like outside the summer season? From September to May the island offers different images for the few lucky visitors. The weather is still mild and ideal for hiking, everything is spontaneous, and the rhythms return to normality and slowness. These are just a few suggestions to get to know the island and get back.
What to see in Heraklion
Many will prevent you from staying in Heraklion, after all the winding narrows and summer temperatures are more reminiscent of Morocco. The main pedestrian street of Daidalou and the surrounding narrow streets have stylish boutiques and restaurants. The city is a culinary destination with restaurants honoring Cretan cuisine.
Visit the wonderful Archaeological Museum, the Knossos Palace and the new museum of Nikos Kazantzakis in Myrtia. In the classics, the walk along the beach front with the Venetian fortress and the fishing boats at sunset, the morning bougatsa at “Liontaria” or the galaktoboureko just across the street. The nearby Ammoudara beach is not the best in Crete, but beautiful for a walk on the sand with a view of the Dia island.
Vineyards and famous wineries
Near to Heraklion there are many famous wineries that offer guided tours of their vineyards and cellars. Try local varieties such as Vidiano, Moschato Spinas and Kotsifali.
They not only offer excellent wines, but also an opportunity to get to know the Cretan hospitality, the products and the richness of the island’s wine production. Visits are included in addition to facility tours and tastings.
Best beaches
The color of the sea, mainly in the south, has the characteristic blue of Crete. On the nearby beaches they do yoga and swim all year round. Go to Matala, Kommos and Agios Pavlos and if you are brave drive to Agiofarango, one of the best beaches in southern Crete.
What to see in Lasithi Region
Lasithi, mainly beyond Agios Nikolaos, is the least touristic prefecture of Crete. It is an authentic corner, full of traditional villages and hiking routes for all tastes. Ideal destination for those who want to explore the unknown side of Crete, stay close to nature and have experiences away from the crowds.
Gorges and traditional villages
The gorge of Hauga, near the village of Kritsa is an easy hiking route of about 2 hours. The narrow passages and high cliffs make it one of the most charming excursions in the area. Next comes Richtis with the waterfalls and the 2 alternative routes.
Kritsa is a traditional village with great development and fine local products. Stay for a coffee under the central plane tree, learn all about Cretan herbs and visit an old Cretan house-museum. Nearby Kroustas is a quite picturesque village with stunning views of the blue sea and the Lasithi mountains.
Beyond the famous Elounda with its popular resorts and Plaka, the village of Fourni has beautiful traditional cafes with colorful chairs to try raki, meze and breathtaking mountain routes. The uphill road after Plaka has a panoramic view of the island of Spinalonga and is worth every kilometer. On the other hand, the fishing village of Mochlos has special energy and its taverns offer the best seafood in the area.
Best beaches
The cosmopolitan Agios Nikolaos is the capital of the prefecture with the postcard lake monopolizing interest. Its most famous beach is “Voulisma”, outside Kalo Chorio village. Myrtos on the south side has crystal clear waters and few people, even in August. Sitia and Kato Zakros are among the most beautiful and remote areas of Crete.