Cretan must-dos

INDULGE AT THE SPA

GOCO Spa at Daios Cove offers treatments from French holistic therapist Anne Semonin (who used to be Grace Kelly’s beautician).

DOWN UNDER

Diving lessons are available from diving professionals, whether you’re a beginner or more experienced. Kids are welcome, too.

EXPLORE ELOUNDA

Sip a coffee by the water in Elounda, with a slew of waterfront bars and restaurants to choose from. Perfect for people watching.

GRAB A BARGAIN

Visit local markets in Agios Nikolaos, where stalls are set up next to the marina selling traditional Cretan products such as thyme honey.

TAKE IN HISTORY

Book a walking tour in the countryside of Kavousi to see a 3200-year-old olive tree; olive trees and oil are pivotal to Cretan history and tradition.

GO TO THE BEACH

Istro is a large beach, well organised and maintained with sunbeds and umbrellas to hire. Dip in the crystal clear waters.

DRINK WINE

Douloufakis Winery in Dafnes of Heraklion is open to visitors all year round. Book a visit and learn about and, more importantly, taste Greek wines.

TOUR A PALACE

Explore the ancient palace of Knossos, the capital of Minoan Crete. According to mythology, King Minos contained the Minotaur here.

EXPLORE THE CATHEDRAL

Agios Minas Cathedral in Heraklion serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Crete, and is one of the largest churches in Greece.

A DIFFERENT FARM

Visit a Cretan olive oil farm and take a cooking lesson, preparing things like stuffed vine leaves to enjoy with Raki, if you dare.