If you are an inspiring athlete all you need is holiday in Crete
The first ever Olympic Games were held in 776 BC in the Greek village Olympia. The classical games included running, boxing, wrestling, jumping and discus throwing. If you’re into sports, you’ll certainly appreciate a pilgrimage to the birth country of this strong tradition. For amateur athletes, one of the most impressive Greek islands is Crete because the mountains, planes and beaches are ideal for a wide variety of sports. The best time of the year for flights to Crete is autumn, as the hordes of tourists have left the island and the temperatures are more suitable for an active holiday than during the summer.
There are many gorgeous hiking routes in the gorges of Crete. We recommend going to the Samaria Gorge in the White Mountains of Western Crete, which is the longest gorge in Europe (18 km). Other gorges that won’t disappoint you include Agia Eirini, Agiofarango, Koutsouras, Myga, Pefki, Pervolakia, Polurinnia, Rouvas, Sirikari, Vorizia (with the Kamares cave) and Zakros. If you are an experienced climber, the gorges and mountains are full of exciting challenges for you as well. You can find routes and advice at www.climbincrete.com.
The Cretan landscape is a dream come true for mountain bikers. Whether you’re into comfortable downhill bike trekking or into one of the more exhausting varieties of this sport, Crete is all you need. You can rent suitable bikes in most resorts, including Rethymno, Georgioupolis, Panormos, Bali, Plakias, Chania, Heraklion and even Agios Nikolaos. Ask the shop attendant at the bike rental shop near your hotel for a map if you don’t have one yet.
The coastal areas are great for snorkelling, waterskiing, windsurfing, kayaking and other water sports. You can rent equipment and get lessons near most organised beaches. All the large hotels in Crete have swimming pools, tennis courts and mini-golf courses that can also be used by people who aren’t staying at the hotel.
Scientific research shows that participating in sports can be a great boost for your health, looks, emotional and psychological well-being, self-confidence and social life. If that’s exactly what you’re looking for in a vacation, book an active holiday in Crete now!
