|
Crete is the largest island of Greece and the fifth largest island
in the Mediterranean, it is situated approximately 175 km south of
Athens and is divided into the four prefectures of Hania, Rethimno,
Iraklio and Lasithi. It has an area of about 8300 sq km. The island
is elongated, measuring 260 km long from east to west and between 15
and 60 km North to South.
The coastline is over 1000 km
long and is extremely varied in its characteristics, consisting of
both sandy and rocky beaches and majestic mountainous scenery. The
high mountains are a characteristic of the Cretan landscape and form
three mountain complexes, each with their own distinctive
'personality' between which lie semi-mountainous zones which form
the greater coverage of the island.
 The rugged countryside
inspires artists, painters and photographers alike. In late January,
after a relatively short mild winter, spring bursts in to life with
a spectacular display of wild flowers. Red poppies and mustard
yellow flowers carpet the olive groves; on uncultivated ground wild
anemone, tulips and delicate orchids bloom.
The warm, genuine friendliness
of the local people continues to amaze and delight every visitor,
which is why so many people choose Crete as their holiday
destination year after year.
Being one of the most
southerly parts of Europe, Crete enjoys over 300 days of sunshine
each year! In the summer months, the heat is alleviated on the north
coast by the breezes of the "Meltemi". The start of the break-up of
the long, dry months usually begins at the end of October. January
and February form the real winter, yet often have lovely bright,
sunny, warm days.
|
CLIMATE |
April |
May |
June |
July |
Aug. |
Sept. |
Oct. |
|
oC |
22 |
27 |
30 |
35 |
35 |
30 |
25 |
|
