Crete [Paperback]

"Has established a strong reputation. The intimacy of the authors with their subjects shines through."
--The Bookseller (UK)

"Classy but colourful with it...and offers advice on everything from walks to restaurants."
--The Scotsman (UK)

"Characterized by strong voice, quirky point of view and anecdotal style."
--Approach Magazine (US)

One of the most popular of the Greek islands, Crete continues to draw fun-and-sun worshippers in vast numbers, as well as offering a paradise of flora, hillside terraces, and coastal plains in the less-commercialized areas. Cadogan's new entertaining guide to Greece's largest and most fiercely independent island delves into every aspect of its unique attractions. Engaging commentary on the fabled Minoan sites evoking Europe's earliest civilization, frescoed Byzantine monasteries, and Venetian city-quarters will give readers a singular insight into Crete's wealth of history. A special nature section illuminates the stunning landscape and carpets of spring flowers, and the guide takes travelers to the island's beauty spots--from the turquoise lagoon of Elafonísi to the butterfly-filled gorges by the Libyan sea. Ancient Cretan culture is explored in the Labyrinth at Knossós and the Diktean cave, birthplace of Zeus. If visitors' tastebuds are tempted by the abundance of Cretan produce, the listings will give them the best places to feast on fresh lobster and indulge in specialty cakes and pastries. Packed full of inspirational ideas, Cadogan will help them create their very own Crete.
This guide provides:
*Detailed practical information every step of the way from getting there and traveling around to local festivals and shopping areas
*Independent views on where to stay, eat, and drink for all budgets
*Advice on when and where to go if you want to avoid the crowds

Fiercely independent, land of myth and mystery, Greece's megalonisos or "big island" of Crete lies at the crossroads of the Mediterranean. This was the home of Europe's earliest civilization, a place where memory began; today, its olive-shaded landscapes retain a magical sense of timelessness. Cadogan's guide covers every side of Crete, from fabled Minoan sites to Byzantine frescoes, old Venetian cities, intimate coves and spectacular sheer-sided gorges filled with wildflowers and herbs. Chapters on myth, history, art and nature bring alive the island's unique character. This book gives you all you need to experience the pleasures of Crete - its gutsy food and wines, idyllic places to stay, and beaches reachable only by track or by boat, that you may just have all to yourself.
Inside you will find: practical travel advice; over 320 hand-picked places to stay; over 290 restaurants, cafes and bars; 21 maps and site plans; color touring-map section; stunning color photography; full information on Crete's ancient sites, and a guide to the best beaches.

Widely acknowledged as two of the foremost writers and researchers in their field, Dana Facaros and Michael Pauls have written 40 Cadogan Guides. They live in the Lot, France.

'Crete's popularity is a tribute to its extraordinary charms. Four mountain ranges lend the island a dramatic grandeur out of proportion to its size; the White Mountains in the west hold the Gorge of Samaria, the longest canyon in Europe. Some 1,500 kinds of wild flowers, including species unique to Crete, brighten the landscape in the spring with the intensity of 1950s Technicolour.'