Greece, Crete and more...

Greece

 

Greece is a dream destination with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and world-famous cuisine. Whether you're planning to explore ancient ruins, relax on sun-kissed islands, or indulge in delicious Greek food, here are 10 essential things to know before you go:

 

1. Islands - Greece has over 200 inhabited islands, each with its own charm.

2. Cash is King - Although credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, smaller tavernas and shops may   
    prefer cash. It’s a good idea to carry some euros, especially in remote areas.

3. Greek Hospitality is Unmatched - Greeks are known for their warm hospitality. Don’t be surprised if a restaurant owner
    brings you a complimentary dessert or drink - it's their way of making you feel at home.

4. Tipping is Not Mandatory but Appreciated - Tipping in Greece is not as strict as in the U.S., but it’s customary to leave a
    small amount in restaurants, taxis, and for hotel staff as a token of appreciation.

5. The Siesta Culture is Real - Many shops and businesses (especially outside of tourist areas) close in the afternoon,   
    typically between 2:00 and 5:00 PM. Plan your shopping accordingly, or embrace the local lifestyle and take a nap!

6. Greek Food is More Than Just Gyros - From fresh seafood and grilled meats to vegetarian dishes like moussaka and   
    spanakopita, Greek cuisine is diverse and delicious. Don’t leave without trying souvlaki, feta cheese, and loukoumades
    (Greek donuts).

7. Island Hopping is Fun but Requires Planning - Ferries are a great way to travel between islands, but schedules can be   
    unpredictable due to weather. If you're island-hopping, allow some flexibility in your itinerary.

8. Dress Modestly for Religious Sites - When visiting monasteries or churches, wear modest clothing. Women should   
    cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid shorts. Many sites provide wraps if needed.

9. Greek Time is Relaxed - Things don’t always run on a strict schedule in Greece. Whether it’s a late ferry or a leisurely   
    meal, embrace the slow pace and enjoy the moment.

10. The Sun is Strong - Protect Yourself! - Greece enjoys over 250 sunny days a year, and the summer sun can be intense.
    Always wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, especially when exploring archaeological sites.

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Crete

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Crete, the largest Greek island, is a paradise of stunning landscapes, ancient history, and incredible food. But beyond its famous beaches and archaeological sites, there are plenty of fascinating facts that make Crete truly unique. Here are 10 fun facts about Crete that will make you want to visit even more!

 

1. The Birthplace of Zeus - According to Greek mythology, Zeus, the king of the gods, was born in a cave on Crete.
    Two caves - Dikteon Cave and Ideon Cave - both claim to be his birthplace, and visiting them feels like stepping
     into an ancient legend.

2. Home to Europe’s First Civilization - Crete was the center of the Minoan civilization, Europe’s first advanced society,
    which flourished around 3000–1450 BC. The palace of Knossos, with its famous labyrinth and frescoes, is one of the
    most impressive archaeological sites in Greece.

3. Crete Has Its Own Unique Dialect - While Greek is spoken across the island, the Cretan dialect has distinct words,
    phrases, and pronunciations that set it apart. Locals also use traditional Cretan mantinades - short, poetic verses - to
    express emotions and tell stories.

4. One of the Healthiest Diets in the World - The Cretan diet, a variation of the Mediterranean diet, is famous for its
    health benefits. It includes fresh vegetables, olive oil, whole grains, and locally sourced cheese, meat, and fish. Many
    Cretans live long, healthy lives, partly thanks to their traditional diet.

5. There Are More Sheep and Goats Than People - Crete has a population of about 650,000 people, but the number of
   sheep and goats on the island is even higher! You’ll often see them wandering freely across the rugged landscapes
   and even on roads.

6. It Has One of the World’s Most Beautiful Beaches. Crete is home to Elafonissi Beach, often ranked among the most
    beautiful beaches in the world. Its pink sand, crystal-clear waters, and exotic scenery make it a must-visit spot.

7. The Longest Gorge in Europe is Here - Samaria Gorge, located in the White Mountains, is the longest gorge in
    Europe, stretching 16 kilometers (10 miles). Hiking through it is one of the most popular outdoor adventures on the
    island.

8. The Island Has a Secret Underground City - During World War II, the Germans built an underground network of
    tunnels and bunkers in Crete. Some of these tunnels, like those in Platanias, are still accessible today and serve as
    fascinating war museums.

9. Crete Has Its Own Type of Music and Dance - Cretan music is deeply connected to the island’s culture and history.
    The lyra, a traditional stringed instrument, is central to Cretan music, and locals love to dance the pentozali, a fast-
    paced, energetic dance.

10. You Can Ski and Swim on the Same Day - Yes, Crete has snow! In winter, the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) are
    covered in snow, and some locals enjoy skiing there in the morning before heading down to the beach for a swim in
    the afternoon.

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Our Area

 

Nestled near the serene Kakia Skala Beach, TAO House offers our guests a harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.

 

Here's a glimpse into some fascinating facts about the area and activities you can enjoy during your stay:

 

Kakia Skala Beach, only 70 meters (230 ft) from TAO House, is a tranquil beach characterized by its clear blue waters and pebbled shoreline. The beach is relatively secluded, providing a peaceful retreat away from the more crowded tourist spots. It's an ideal location for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, allowing you to immerse yourselves in the natural beauty of the Libyan Sea.

 

Milonas Gorge and Waterfall - For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Milonas Gorge offers a captivating hiking experience. The gorge features a stunning waterfall, especially impressive during the winter months when water flow is at its peak. Two trails lead to the waterfall: one is a 20-minute walk through a pine-wooded area, and the other is a more challenging 1.5-hour trek along the riverbed. The easiest way to reach the waterfall is from the south side, very close to TAO House; follow the sign to the waterfall on the main road (Epar.Od. Ierapetra-Sitia), and then drive 5 minutes in the dirt road to the starting point of the path. 

 

Ierapetra Town - Just a 10-minutes short drive from TAO House lies Ierapetra, the southernmost town of Europe. Known for its rich history and vibrant culture, Ierapetra boasts a picturesque old town with narrow alleys, traditional tavernas, and the Venetian fortress "Kales" overlooking the harbor. The town's archaeological museum offers insights into the area's ancient past, making it a worthwhile visit for history buffs.

 

Chrissi Island - A must-visit destination is Chrissi Island, located approximately 8 miles south of Ierapetra. Accessible by a short boat trip, this uninhabited island is renowned for its exotic beaches with white sand and cedar forests. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, offering a glimpse into the rich marine life of the region.

 

Outdoor Activities - The diverse landscape around TAO House provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities. From hiking and mountain biking in the surrounding hills to water sports like windsurfing and kayaking along the coast, there's something for every adventure seeker. The region's mild climate ensures that these activities can be enjoyed year-round.

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Getting Here

 

Heraklion Airport (HER) – 90 minutes’ drive

Sitia Airport (JSH) – 60 minutes’ drive

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