Ancient Crete
In the middle of the Mediterranean sea in nearly equal distance from Europe, Africa and Asia, lies the magnificent Island of Crete. A Long Island 156 miles from East to West and 34 miles from North to South dominated by huge range of high mountains from side to side, with fertile valleys, plateaus and plains in-between giving her a unique natural characteristic and beauty. The variety of Flora and Fauna makes Crete one of the most interesting places on earth for it diversity.
Crete, the Kingdom of Minos with its 100 cities and 1000’s of boats dominating the Mediterranean Sea, is the first European civilisation and the one that gave Europe her name. Over the millenniums Crete has been occupied by various conquers, because once you control Crete you then control the seaways to Eastern Mediterranean. Romans, Pirates, Arabs, Byzantines, Venetians, Ottomans, and lately Germans made Crete their temporary home. Not one of them managed to conquer the soul of Cretan people who constantly battle for freedom and the union with motherland Greece.
Cretan Culture Today
Today, Crete is a calm cosmopolitan place that allows its rich history to live peacefully next to the modern life. Here you will find wealthy Minoan cities, Byzantine monasteries with wonderful frescos, Venetian fortresses, Ottoman Baths and mountainous villages to walk back in time.
The climate is dry with no humidity. The scenery is breathtaking. The sea water is crystal clear. To us, Crete is simply unique.
Places of Interest
There are so many things to see and do in Crete. We will take you on a trip to a vibrant & colourful market, on a guided tour of the wonderful distillery, museum and gardens of Bio Aroma and to the traditional village of Kritsa as part of your retreat. You will even have lunch at the edge of a beautiful lake.
You can also choose from a number of optional cultural extras to let Andreas show you the true beauty of Cretan culture – away from the tourists off the beaten track.
The Food
Food plays a big part in Cretan culture including plenty of fruit and vegetables, nuts, pulses, meat from animals that generally run free up in the mountains, fish from our clean sea waters and olive oil in abundance is what makes Cretan Cuisine the best example of the famous Mediterranean diet. The local wine and raki along with the hospitality will make your retreat unforgettable!
Our retreat experience includes a rich and nutritious Cretan breakfast/brunch every day as well as homemade culinary delights courtesy of Andreas’ Mama!
Hospitality
“I knew that no matter what door you knock on in a Cretan village, it will be open for you. A meal will be served in your honour and you will sleep between the best sheets in the house. In Crete the stranger is still the unknown god. Before him, all doors and all hearts are opened.” – Nikos Kazantzakis (1883 – 1957)
Hospitality in Crete is like no other. Take a look at this short video which says it all!