Postcards from Crete
Explore Crete, an island where rich history and remarkable archaeology meets serene landscapes. Beyond its beautiful beaches and charming restaurants, Minoan ruins reveal the story of one of Europe’s oldest civilizations. Discover Cassandra’s top picks for anyone planning to visit the island.
Where to eat
PESKESI
Tucked away in Heraklion’s tangle of streets is Peskesi, a restaurant dedicated to Cretan cuisine both current and forgotten. Housed in a restored mansion with tables tumbling out into their various courtyards, the restaurant has a feel of lost time to it. Peskesi is focused on sustainable gastronomy but that really makes them stand apart from other restaurants is their resurrection of lost ingredients and recipes.
Taste a forgotten Cretan cheese, ‘Katsohiri’ which they grill in front of you, or ‘Kreokakavos,’ a revived ancient recipe which is referred to in the book ‘Dipnosofistai’ which comprises of Athinaios pork roasted with honey and thyme and served with a carrot purée.
Peskesi is often viewed as one of the best restaurants in Crete, so Cassandra recommends booking it ahead of time.
AVLI
In the winding streets of Rethimno old town, escape the tourist knickknacks in Avli. After wandering around the Venetian fortress, Cassandra avoided the heat of the day in the whimsical courtyard of Avli. Expect refreshing dishes with a touch of creativity that are grounded in deliciously fresh ingredients. Cassandra’s favourite was a tomato and courgette risotto topped with garlicky snails and herb oil.
ΤΟ ΣΤΕΚΙ ΤΟΥ ΧΟΧΛΙΟΥ
The Snail’s House
An unassuming taverna, tucked away off a main road, may look like nothing special but The Snail’s House is well worth a visit. The taverna’s authentic Cretan cuisine is prepared by a local mother and daughter duo. The food is simple but delicious and their local red wine is bursting with flavour. Cassandra highly recommends a plate of their famed snails in tomato sauce, the lamb cutlets and, of course, Greek coffee to end.
Where to stay
Ammos
A quick car ride from Chania, you will find Ammos. A modern take on traditional whitewashed Greek homes, Ammos is a place of tranquillity. The hotel’s rooftop doubles as a bar in the evenings and an open-air yoga class in the mornings. Located right on the beach, Ammos is perfect for those looking to disconnect in the hotel’s artful spaces.
Methohi Kindelis
Set on a family farm just south of Chania, Methohi Kindelis is a charming 16th-century estate. The property is made up of three unique guesthouses, each with its own pool and character, surrounded by a lush botanical garden and working farmland. A basket of fresh produce from the fields can be delivered to your door, along with a simple recipe to bring the flavours of the farm straight to your table. It’s a peaceful, welcoming retreat that blends comfort, tradition and a true sense of home.
What to see :
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Make sure you are sufficiently fuelled before arriving, as this museum is substantial. Laid over two floors, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum is a treasure trove of Minoan artifacts and one of the oldest museums in Greece. Don’t miss the famous faience Snake Goddesses, the Malia bee pendant, the Prince of the Lilies and Bull-Leaping Frescoes, the Hagia Triada Sarcophagus, the Linear B tablets from Knossos and the enigmatic Phaistos Disc.
You will also find the celebrated Minoan pottery with beautiful depictions of octopi which were the inspiration behind Cassandra’s Octopus Medallion charm.
Holy Monastery of Piso Preveli
Cassandra visited this monastery as the sun was setting, lighting the monastery’s sand-coloured bricks in golden hues. This monastery is perfect for those wanting to visit a traditional Orthodox Greek monastery or just to enjoy the tranquil calmness of the place.
Preveli Beach
A perfect addition to a visit to the monastery, Preveli Beach is reached by a narrow path leading down from the clifftop. The return hike can be a bit challenging, but the sweeping ocean views make it well worth the effort. As an estuary beach, Preveli features a unique blend of freshwater and seawater, giving the water an unusual but striking appearance.
The rock monastery of Katholiko
About two hours on foot from the Gouverneto Monastery in north-west Crete, the abandoned Katholiko Monastery sits built into a cliff. A stone bridge crosses the narrow gorge in front, making for a striking view. The hike is scenic but rocky, so bring water, wear good shoes and avoid it on very hot days.
The Minoan Palace of Knossos
One of the largest Minoan structures on Crete, the Palace of Knossos is a must-see. Dating back to 1900 BC, it’s steeped in mythology - believed to be the site where Daedalus built the legendary labyrinth for the Minotaur. Central to the myth of Icarus, these sprawling ruins are truly remarkable.
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