Difficult as it may be to leave the lovely beaches of eastern Crete, there is plenty to do away from the seaside. The interior is dotted with traditional villages that reference a simpler way of life, while the gorges and valleys that run down to the sea are dramatic places to explore with a swim in soothing seas a reward for your effort. Most of the organised beaches offer watersports while the luxury hotels around Elounda often have their own in-house facilities. An increasingly popular way to enjoy the Lasithi plateau is on a bicycle, navigating the 23 km relatively-flat circular route that connects the villages.
Fourni Horses
In the pretty traditional area of Fourni, easy treks on horseback are arranged between local villages. Wander through olive groves and fields full of wild herbs, follow ancient paths and pass by 16th century monasteries. A wonderful way to engage with the rhythms of rural Crete, all abilities are catered for. Fourni Horses (Tel.: 69408 46019, www.fournihorses.gr)
Gorge of the Dead
With sheer walls of up to 350 metres, it is easy to see why the MInoans considered it to be a sacred place. There are many caves on the rock faces and the ancients used them as burial sites, hence the name. Taking about 2 1/2 hours to traverse, the route begins in Ano Zakros and winds its way through impressive scenery before exiting on to the beach at Kato Zakros. The path through the gorge is actually the last section of the E4 path that begins in Portugal, crossing the countries of southern Europe, and crossing Crete from west to east to end at Kato Zakros.
Ierapetra Diving Centre
Operating out of four sites on the southern coast and offers dives for all levels of experience. Spot turtles and groupers on the Peristeras reef or visit the unique wreck of a merchant vessel that sank in WW2. Ierapetra Diving Centre (28420 26703, www.ierapetradivingcentre.com)
Koufonisi Island
An uninhabited island south of Cape Goudouros in the Libyan Sea, Koufonisi has over 30 beautiful beaches and an inland desert. An ideal sand-filled day trip, boats run from Makrigialos daily in summer. Originally known as Lefki, meaning white, on account of the pale limestone that contrasts with the bright blue seas, the island is small and easily hiked on foot. Better still, arrive on a private yacht but be careful as the island is surrounded by many reefs.
Richtis Gorge
One of the most beautiful trails in Crete begins at Exo Mouliana and ends at the secluded Richtis beach near to the village of Kalavros. Taking roughly 3 hours to cross, the highlight of the trek are the 20 metre high waterfalls that plunge into a pool even in the height of summer as the gorge collects water from the Orno range of mountains.
Semi-Submersible Tour
Take to the high seas in your own yellow submarine! Based in Agios Nikolaos, a specially built catamaran has a submerged glass bottom that shows off the undersea life and geology of Mirabello Bay. The fish are fed to attract them near to the boat, and the second part of the 90 minute cruise is spent on deck viewing the attractive coastline and beaches Semi-Submarine (Tel.: 69360 51186, www.semi-submarine.gr, 16€)
Read also:
Vamos: The Cretan Village where Time stands Still
Oropedio Lasithiou: A special route to the most authentic part of mountainous Crete
