Rethymnon
Between the White Mountains and Psiloriti, lies Rethymno, an unparallel scenery of Rocky landscapes and beautiful beaches. Under the melodies of the Lyra (Cretan musical instrument), experience the unique gastronomical journey and the warmest hospitality you could ever find. Mantinada (Cretan art of musical declamation in form of a narrative): “The Rethymno in my heart is my talisman, and I am proud of having it as my village”
Town
Rethymno of the past and the present welcomes you!
The famous
Venetian castle Fortezza that decorates the town, was bult on 1575 by
the Venetians and is the perfect start for your introduction to the old town of
Rethymno. A place where many Mediterranean cultures left their mark, a cultural
crossroad that offers a remarkable historic journey. Wonder around the
picturesque small alleys of old town, full of vibrant colors, Venetian old
mansions and small fountains. The myth has it that whoever drinks from the
town’s fountains will for ever stay young! While wondering on the old town
alleys, do not hesitate to dig into the unique gastronomical experience, taste authentic
Cretan crust pies, sweet syrup desserts and savory delicacies that you will
never forget!
The town beach
completes this beautiful scenery! Take a relaxing stroll and recharge your
batteries for your next exploration by having a coffee or drink in one of the
traditional coffee shops.
If you hear a fast
passed tuned, follow it and you will see the unique “Pentozali” dance, one of
the most impressive folklore dances Greece has to offer!
Outskirts
Rethymno is home
to some of the rearrest tulips and orchids in the world, found in the magical
plains.
For the Natural
beauty lovers, a drive to Agios Antonios Gorge! Enjoy a walk through the
local vegetation and enter the Cave for an otherworldly experience. Afterwards,
it’s time for a break, have a delicious BBQ meal under the umbrella of the
imposing huge tree lines. A similar paradise for the Hikers is also the
Kourtaliotiko Gorge which is home to many species of indigenous wildlife.
Staying on the
South side and taking a drive down a road paved below huge rock formations, you
will reach Preveli area. Home to the Spiritual Preveli Convent and to
the homonymous famous beach. Reaching the shores, you
will witness an incredible phenomenon, a river ending in the sea where you have
a tropical forest of Palm trees. A truly unique spot worth visiting!
On the South side,
a magical seaside place to visit is Plakias, a spot for enjoying the sea
and sun but also a heaven for climbers.
As for other
memorable beaches, do not miss a swim at Kalypso’s rocky scenery, Bali
beaches for the demanding ones and finally Ammoudi beach for the seekers
of peace and tranquility.
Rising 2,456
meters, the National Park of Psiloriti is the highest mountain of whole
Crete island and ideal for the hiking enthusiasts.
During your stay
at Rethymno, the food experience will be sublime! Taste Raki (local drink
distilled from grapes) and Wine, accompanied by delicious treats like Graviera
cheese, Stamnagathi greens, lamb baked on the special process of “Antikristo”, asparagus
and escargot. But the aforementioned are only few of the gastronomical
treasures that are in stored!