Page 44 - BLUE INK 2019

THe DesTiNaTioN MeMo

set in a wooded valley. Meanwhile, you can find the outright by the White Mountains, for an authentic look into the Cretan
tropical Vai in the Lasithi area. Its two-millennia-old colony soul. Nearby Anogia stands out for its colors and scents while
of palm trees is the largest natural palm forest in Europe. Re- Margarites is a treat for lovers of pottery and fantastic views.
cords of the beach’s ancient palms go back to Minoan times. Laid-back Axos boasts impressive Byzantine churches. Last but
They are fenced off for protection, but you’ll still enjoy their not least, we should mention Pefki – named for its pine trees
sight, along with the fine white sand of the beach and the islets a truly peaceful and traditional village, echoing a purer time.
scattered across the bay.
LAndMArks Born of MAn & nATure
TrAdiTionAL ViLLAGes BeCkon There, are, of course, the famous Minoan palaces at knossos,
Archanes is a well-preserved village with a distinct ambiance Phaestos, Malia and Zakros, but you won’t want to miss these
said to be one of the loveliest in Europe, with vineyards, flow- unique landmarks and monuments either: The Venetian for-
er-filled gardens and restored houses – as well as interesting tress of fortezza in Rethimno; ancient falasarna and its port;
museums, from folk art to archaeology. For beautiful stately the ancient city of Lissos in the southwest; kazarma fortress
homes and grand traditional festivals, head to houdetsi. At the in Sitia; the Minoan city of kommos, a port at Phaestos; Zo-
foot of Mt. Psiloritis, Zaros village is equally stunning. The twin minthos, another Minoan city on the uplands; and the ancient
villages of Ano and kato Asites will treat you to Agios Georgios ruins of Gortyn, Crete’s capital during the Roman era. Nature
monastery with its centenarian trees and an irresistible village too has sculpted Crete to create spots of impeccable beauty, in-
square to quench your thirst and hunger. Perhaps Vamos’ big- cluding a series of verdant gorges: Arvi gorge, along with that
gest claim to fame are its impressive houses, standing among of ha, is a small miracle in itself. Located in the Heraklion area,
olive groves and orange orchards. Head to sfakia, surrounded it requires canyoneering equipment to cross. About mid-route
is an 85-meter-high waterfall called Kapnistis. Your reward
for reaching the end? The fertile valley of Arvi with its banana
groves. “The Dead,” to use its Greek name, gorge of nekron/
reMarkable nature, CharMing Zakros includes a lovely route lined with caves and ending at

Kato Zakros, a beach with magnificent waters. Another inter-
villages and kind, proud esting canyon is that of Trypiti in Heraklion, named after the
church of Panagia Trypiti in one of its caves. Part of the route
people: this is Crete. goes through Asterousia Mountains, Crete’s far west.

Breathtaking Nature – The palm forest of Preveli at the estuary of Kourtaliotiko gorge. MOVE WITH COMFORT,
LUXURY AND SAFETY

The company Crete Transfer offers you luxurious transfer services, ensuring
that you travel with safety and comfort.
Each transfer is for us a special mission. Our professional Mercedes Benz Class vehicles
and professional drivers, take
you to and from the airport or the hotel, while assuring guided tours within the island.
You have just reached your destination…

CRETE TRANSFER
7 Gnoseos Str, Agios Nikolaos, Crete T.+30 6944226834 (St.Vasilakis)
info@crete-transfer.gr www.crete-transfer.gr

42 Blue Ink