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By Katia Luz
Looking forward to pouring over the map, tracing the curve of the land with your finger tip, trying to pronounce all the new names, familiarising yourself with the capitals, the mountains and seas, ahh, the explorer needs a good map to start a journey!
We like the Anavasi maps and found them very useful for general touring. For general touring we have featured the 1:100,000 Anavasi maps. Walkers will choose the 1:25,000 Anavasi maps to detail the countryside.
The E4 European walking path Cretan section starts in Kastelli-Kissamos and tracks 320 km through some of the most beautiful countryside in Kriti to finally end at Kato Zakros in the east. The trail is not always marked, it has some yellow and black E4 markers along the way. It is always good to check with the locals before starting any hike or walk in Kriti.
The Cretan Way is essential for those planning a serious walk along the Cretan section of the E4.
This comprehensive guide includes detailed descriptions, maps, travelogue, GPS paths, accommodation information and hiking tips for trek, written in east to west format by Luca Gianotti, a world walking expert hiker with a passion for paths.
An invaluable accompaniment to walking this trail is The High Mountains of Crete by Lorraine Wilson. This book is available online and featured below.
Looking for an itinerary in the west of Crete? Do you prefer to explore the East of the island?
We have put together the best of those regions into a five day trip for independent travellers...Taking some time and a car will mean you can explore the ruggedly beautiful interior of the island of Crete as well as visit some exquisite beaches.
Everyone knows Crete as a beach destination, and that an average of 300 days of sunshine a year means more chances of bliss on the sand. As an independent visitor, who wants to do more than just lie on the beach, it can be difficult to plan a great route without knowledge of the island.
Each of these trip ideas e-books has a live link map.
Below you will find interactive maps for the four major capital towns, Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos.
See the interactive map below to find accommodation options in Chania town.
The interactive map below shows accommodation options in Rethymnon town.
The interactive map below shows accommodation options in Heraklion town.
The interactive map below shows accommodation options in Agios Nikolaos.
Below you will see a map showing the major Minoan archaeological sites of Crete
Tips for accommodation in our major towns on the island. From Chania and Rethymnon in the west, with characteristic choices in the old towns, to Heraklion in the centre and Agios Nikolaos in the east, these tips will make it easy to enjoy the cosmopolitan towns of Crete.
Chania
Alcanea Boutique Hotel - with its own restaurant and bar, this makes for a romantic place to stay by the bayside of the old port of Chania. Gaze at the reflections on the water over a slow drink and a long conversation.
A convenient location along the promenade of the limani, close to all tavernas, clubs and cafe-bars of the old town, this historic building is over 400 years old and a delight to the eye. Views over the harbour and the lighthouse are perfect from here. If you don't like the hustle bustle of the port-side night life, don't worry as the double glazed windows keep the noise down.
Rethymnon
Veneto Boutique Hotel - we love the old town of Rethymnon with its winding narrow streets and stone archways. The ochres and browns leave soft colours on the eye and warmth in the heart. So it is with the Veneto. A beautifully restored, characteristic historic building, with only 10 rooms and family-run, the four star Veneto with its atmospheric restaurant is a true Cretan experience right in the heart of old Rethymon town.
Heraklion
The Lato Hotel - our pick for downtown Heraklion because it is close to the port, the airport, the bus station and all the funky cafe bars. It also has great views over the romantic old harbour and terrific service. A great pick if you have travelled a long way or are awaiting your flight home. Enjoy the rooftop restaurant.
Agios Nikolaos
Hotel du Lac - this is a modest hotel in Agios Nikolaos with a terrific bar café and internet lounge
right on the main shopping street, and so close to from all city
attractions; the lake and its outdoor café precinct, the harbour with
its tavernas and bars, and the port with both day cruisers and large
inter-island ferries.
Take a 1 hour flight from Athens to Heraklion with Aegean Airlines or Olympic Air, with many flights available per day.
Or take a 9.5 hour overnight ferry from Pireaus port of Athens to Heraklion port.
More on flights and ferries below.
Car hire in Crete is a really good idea as it is a large island 60 km by 260 km. There is so much to explore.
When you book with our car rental partners - Rental Centre Crete - you are supporting a local company with excellent service and easy online booking. We are sure you will be well looked after by the team. Choose from hybrid, electric or regular vehicles.
We trust you have enjoyed these tips from the We Love Crete team. Evíva!
Yiásas!
Anastasi, Apostoli & Katia
are the We Love Crete team
We just love sharing our passion for Crete, Greece and travel
About us Contact Us Kaló taxídi!
Yiásas!
Anastasi, Apostoli & Katia
are the
We Love Crete team
We just love sharing our passion for Crete, Greece and travel
About us