Crete/ has something for every tourist seeking a cultural and sensory holday: there's the 14th century frescoed church of the Panagia Kera; the Minoan Palace of Kato Zakros; the intriguing island of Spinalonga; the stunning bay of Mirabello on the north-east coast of Crete; the sun-gilded bay of Elounda; the trendy harbour town Agios Nikolaos; and the old world village charm of Kritsa for its traditional handicrafts.

Kritsa is another special community with its own traditions and hospitality. It is situated at the foothills of the Dikti Mountains besides water springs and olive groves. Visiting Kitsa is a bit like stepping back in time as the village honors time-worn customs such as the way residents celebrate festivals and religious holidays in traditional manner.

Chania is a very popular harbour town on the north west coast. A Venetian lighthouse sits at the edge of its picturesque harbour and the area surrounding the marina is dense with bars, cafes, restaurants and shops. Chania's old town has both Byzantine and Moorish architecture to soak up as you amble down its charming streets.

For a real Greek village experience try Vamos. The town is situated between Chania and Rethymnon, in the rolling foothills of the White Mountains. The sea is less than four miles away, with sandy beaches complete with water-sports facilities at both Kalives and Georgioupoli.

Samaria Gorge National Park in the White Mountains is a popular tourist attraction as it's the longest gorge in Europe with a length of 18 kilometres.

The Samaria National Park is exceptionally abundant in plant and animal life and you will find unique species protected under international law. In Samaria you can admire the unspoilt forests of huge pine and cypress trees. If you travel westward 12 miles you will also find the Imbros Gorge which is less crowded but equally inspiring. It's smaller than Samaria but has breathtaking scenery and it's perfect for walking.