Crete is the largest, most scenically diverse and southern-most island in Greece. Its location guarantees a Mediterranean climate, one of the mildest in Europe. Nearly a third of the land is under cultivation producing citrus fruit, grapes for wine, chestnuts, cherries, almonds, vegetables and nearly half of Greece's total olive oil. The island is divided into four prefectures: Hania, Rethymnon, Iraklion and Lassithi.

It is a land apart, which offers many surprises in its changing nature...forests of palm trees meet tall mountains, then majestic plateaus and then the sea. Endless, pink sandy beaches, rocky coves and towering cliffs, fringe it. The green, rugged scenery is splashed with patches of vibrant colour as some 1500 species of wild flowers run through the fields and olive groves. Many rare birds also populate the countryside, as well as the endangered loggerhead turtle and the bearded vulture. Scented by wild fennel and basil, Crete welcomes and overwhelms visitors with its wealth of myths, legends and history, dramatic landscape, and an abundance of choices and experiences.

You will be awed at its fantastic landscapes, from snow-capped White Mountains to the breathtaking Samaria Gorge, tiny fishing villages and incredible historical sights. Each province has its own treasures and character. Plan on visiting the many delightful villages where you can get a real sense of Greek life.

Crete is famous for the Greek nightlife. With folk bouzouki music and great atmosphere. Here you can find some of the most famous nightclubs. There are all types of cafe bars around Crete too; each one of them is unique, with its own style and music, various coffee types, drinks and ice cream. There are a good variety of restaurants within Crete’s borders as well. The confectioneries and gift shops all have locally made treasures for you to take with you. A big part of what makes Crete a very special place is its people and they are sure to welcome you.

The island is teeming with activities for all. Enjoy hiking, cycling, bird and whale watching, painting, sunbathing and swimming. If you’re a little more adventurous, try paragliding, horseback riding, skiing, scuba diving and windsurfing. You can even go by jeep on a safari. Famous for its culinary sanctuaries, try an interesting, fun and exciting travel program, which highlights culture, nature and cuisine, organic olive oil production, beekeeping, even wine and cheese making.

Places to stay are numerous. There are campgrounds, hotels, inns and villas but if you’re really adventurous try a truly "alternative" experience: Milia (Set in the well-wooded mountains between Elafonisi and Kissamos). It is a recreated traditional Cretan village. The houses are built out of local stone and wood beams. There is no electricity so it takes you back to a natural and simple way of living. It offers many walking trails complete with peace and quiet.

Are you getting married and want to have the ceremony somewhere special? The ancient Turkish Fort at Aptera offers you a stunning venue with views of the White Mountains and beautiful Souda Bay. A classic fairy book style wedding can be yours for the asking.

Places to visit include archaeological, art, folklore and marine museums, historical archives, two palaces, a fortress, various archaeological sites, villages, churches, caves, gorges and a plethora of wonderful beaches

So whatever your idea of a perfect vacation is, you’ll find it in Crete. Come, experience a lifetime of memories as the sea and the mountains await your arrival.

As you can see just from this sampling, Attica has so much to offer. Come, experience it today and search out all the little hidden treasures within the big cities and smaller ones alike. You’ll be amazed at the whole new world you can discover.