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Elegance and Comfort

Natural wonders in Crete: Mountains, gorges and beaches.

An island that simply has it all!!!

Rethymno, a scenic town located in Crete, offers an enchanting mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Its vibrant Venetian harbor is a center of activity, surrounded by cafes, taverns, top-notch tourist accommodations, and some of Crete's most stunning luxury villas for renting. The wider Rethymno region boasts numerous beautiful natural landscapes, inviting adventurers and nature lovers to discover their wild charm.

One of the most important landmarks in the natural landscape of Crete is Psiloritis Mountain, also known as Mount Ida. For adventurers, Psiloritis offers numerous hiking trails that cater to all levels of experience. The E4 European long-distance path traverses the mountain, providing trekkers with an immersive tourist experience of its diverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes. Whether it’s a leisurely walk through aromatic herb fields or a challenging ascent to the summit, each journey reveals new facets of Psiloritis's natural beauty. One of the most striking features of Psiloritis is its extensive network of caves and gorges. The Idaean Cave, nestled on its slopes, is steeped in mythology, believed to be the birthplace of Zeus, the king of the gods in Greek mythology. This cave, along with other caves and gorges, like the Rouvas Gorge, adds a layer of mystical allure to the mountain, inviting exploration and contemplation.

Another option that Psiloritis offers, is the opportunity for the ultimate adventure in Crete: ascending to its 2456-metre summit. Its lower slopes and foothills also provide stunning and more accessible hiking opportunities. Trekking Psiloritis is tough and requires good physical fitness. It’s not an easy hike. Success depends on the weather, your experience, and fitness level. The mountain can be climbed year-round and almost no special technical climbing gear is required. On dry trails, usually free from snow from late June till November, only hiking shoes and glasses are needed. In summer, beware of the heat. Temperatures can soar well above 30 degrees Celsius, and on the higher slopes there is no shade whatsoever. Make sure that you bring enough water! Experienced trekkers suggest three routes to the summit: two from the east through the villages of Livadia or Anogia, and one from the west, starting with a drive to Lochria in the Amari Valley. The landscape of Psiloritis is also shaped by its cultural history. Traditional villages with stone-built houses and narrow winding streets cling to its lower slopes, where time seems to stand still. These villages, such as Anogeia and Margarites, are known for their warm hospitality, rich traditions, and vibrant festivals, as well as for the great variety of options of tourist accommodation and luxury villas for renting

Other important landmarks in the Cretan landscape are Preveli Palm Beach and Argiroupoli Water Springs. Preveli Palm Beach is a hidden gem renowned for its stunning natural beauty. This idyllic beach is framed by a lush palm forest, where the Kourtaliotis River meets the Libyan Sea, creating a picturesque lagoon. Accessible via a scenic hike or boat ride, Preveli offers a serene escape with crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and lush greenery. Visitors can explore the river’s enchanting surroundings, swim in the refreshing waters, or relax under the shade of the palm trees. The nearby Preveli Monastery adds a touch of historical charm. On the other hand, Argiroupoli Water Springs is a captivating destination known for its refreshing atmosphere. The springs create a lush oasis, surrounded by verdant vegetation and flowing streams that cascade into small waterfalls and pools. Visitors can enjoy the serene ambiance, explore the scenic trails, and dine at local tavernas that offer delicious Cretan cuisine with views of the sparkling waters. The area is also rich in history, with remnants of ancient Byzantine structures adding a touch of cultural intrigue to your overall tourist experience.

Last but not least, one of the most characteristic attributes of Cretan landscape is the great variety of herbs found in the Cretan mountains. From the well-known oregano, thyme, and sage to the unique dittany, malotira, and marjoram, these herbs are more than just culinary delights; they are steeped in history and renowned for their therapeutic qualities. Cretans have meticulously harvested these mountain treasures for centuries, using them in both cooking and as healing infusions. Dittany stands out not only for its romantic lore but also for its medicinal uses dating back to Hippocrates. Sage offers a robust flavor perfect for winter infusions, while malotira is celebrated for its health benefits and delightful taste. Marjoram adds a floral note to dishes and remedies, and oregano, the "queen" of Cretan herbs, enhances a variety of local foods. Lastly, thyme, crucial for Cretan honey, enriches both cuisine and health practices. For the best experience, source these herbs from specialized shops and enjoy their full spectrum of flavors and benefits, ideally paired with Cretan honey.

In conclusion, Rethymno emerges as a multifaceted destination in Crete. The presence of Psiloritis Mountain adds a dramatic backdrop, offering diverse hiking trails and mythical caves like the Idaean Cave, steeped in ancient legend. Adventurers can embark on challenging ascents or leisurely explorations of its rugged terrain and traditional villages. Beyond Psiloritis, landmarks like Preveli Palm Beach and Argiroupoli Water Springs showcase the island's natural splendor and historical depth. Meanwhile, the abundance of local herbs underscores Crete's culinary and medicinal traditions, inviting visitors to savor both the flavors and healing properties deeply embedded in the island's heritage. Discovering Rethymno and its nearby villages, which offer a great variety of tourist accommodation and luxury villas for renting, promises an enriching tourist experience through Crete's timeless landscapes and cultural treasures.

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