Greek Island Getaways: a brief sketch of Corfu and Crete holidays
The Greek Islands have been inhabited by humans for thousands of years, which should perhaps come as no surprise when you consider the welcoming Mediterranean climate and bountiful array of great food provided by both land and sea. These natural resources and conditions, combined with the legendary hospitality of the Greek People, have seen waves of holiday tourists from across the world - and particularly northern Europe - flock to holiday islands like Corfu and the Crete holidays provided by holiday tour operators for decades.
Situated just off the Western coast of the Greek mainland, the holiday island of Corfu lies in the Ionian Sea. The sleepy charms of Corfu were first popularised to many English readers with the publication of the naturalist Gerald Durrell’s autobiographical book: 'My Family and Other Animals'. While Corfu has undoubtedly changed since Durrell’s childhood in the 1930's, many of the more mountainous regions on the island remain unspoiled bu holiday visitors, and a haven for the rich variety of species that so inspired the young naturalist. Corfu has managed to develop a holiday industry that caters for a wide range of people, with the traditional sun and sand beach holiday in areas like Ipsos and Kavos just one part of the mix. Indeed, the British Prime Minister David Cameron has been snapped on holiday in Corfu in recent years, and the area between Nissaki and Kassiopi on the north-east coast of Corfu attracts many such wealthy Brits to the island each year.
Crete holidays are also popular amongst a broad spectrum of holidaymakers. Crete is the largest of the Greek holiday islands, and sits in the eastern Mediterranean. Like Corfu, there is the expected mix of package options when it comes to Crete holidays, but the island also has a lot more to offer than golden sand beaches and warm, clear blue waters for those that want to mix it up a bit. Known as one of the most attractive of the Greek Islands, Crete has a varied landscape which provides plenty of holiday options for the more active and adventurous visitor. The mountains and gorges – and in particular the Samaria Gorge - are popular with walkers. There are also a growing number of Greek island holiday options for those that wish to explore by mountain bike, and several outfits on the island that can provide not just bike rental, but experienced guides to lead you around dedicated mountain bike tracks that range from beginner level to technical.
Crete has also been historically important for thousands of years, and so many with an interest in history are drawn to Crete holidays to explore the remnants of the various civilisations that have called the island home over the centuries. Minoans, Roman, Ottoman and Venetian rulers all left their mark before the British arrived. There are several well maintained archaeological sites such as the 4,000 year old remains of the Minoan city of Knossos to visit, as well as several well organised museums that make ideal destinations for the Crete holiday visitor.
