Crete, the largest Greek island, is itself a scenic destination. Surrounded by turquoise waters, consisting of white sandy shorelines and the sun shines so brightly here, you'd think you're on the planet Venus or something. Every way you turn, there's a stunning sight to see, making it all the more worthwhile to travel here. With that said, however, there are certain spots on the island that you simply have to see. They'll make your trip here even more memorable. From coastal villages to remote beaches, here are some of the most scenic spots in Crete.
Agia Pelagia
Located on the northern shore of Crete, Agia Pelagia is among the
most beautiful towns on the island. It's also, surprisingly, one of the most developed. If you were expecting a whitewashed village a'la Santorini, you're in the wrong place. Agia Pelagia has buildings, commercial districts, luxury resorts, and the like. However, they don't make the place any less of a scenic masterpiece. Laid out evenly at the foot of the mountains, the contrast between the serene natural wonders and the urban landscape of Agia Pelagia makes for a perfect picture on a postcard. And, of course, don't forget the stark blue seas too!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Agios Nikolaos
Another vibrant town worth visiting just for its scenic beauty is Agios Nikolaos. Located along the banks of the serene Lake Voulismeni, the atmosphere here is as fresh as the water itself. It helps that the town itself is filled with botanical bliss. Amidst the concrete jungle of a coastal city, you can see the trees, gardens, and even vine-lined homes from a mile away. You can tell that, despite the urban lifestyle in the town itself, it has still embraced nature nonetheless. The result is quite a feast for the eyes, one you'll want to capture forever!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Balos Lagoon
One way to
get to Crete is to take a ferry to the island. And as you get nearer to the destination, you'll start to see all the natural wonders here. If you're lucky, you might even get to spot Balos Lagoon before you reach the actual island. If you do, make sure you take out your camera or phone and take a snapshot. You'll want to capture the stunning beauty of the turquoise lagoon and the small uninhabited island of Gramvousa. It's a sight straight out of National Geographic! And you won't see it anywhere else!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Loutro
Now, when you think of the Greek Islands, you envision whitewashed towns, don't you? The likes of which you see in
Santorini,
Mykonos, and more, right? Well, here in Crete, one such town is Loutro. Now, this is the type of rural Greece that you probably went to Crete for. Though the village itself is a tight-knit community, the entire place is surrounded by nature, making it only reachable by boat. But the scene here is something else! It's the signature slow-paced island life that the country is known for. No wonder many have taken the trouble to go all the way here!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Kourtaliotiko Gorge
When you think of Crete, or any other Greek Island for that matter, you think of sandy coasts and salty seas, right? Very rarely do rocky landscapes, high cliffs, and even waterfalls come to mind, do they? But on the island, right by the village of Koxare in Rethymnon, the Kourtaliotiko Gorge is truly a sight to see. This scenic trail leads to beautiful plains and gorgeous waterfalls; an idyllic paradise that you can call your own. At least, for the few hours that you're here. Though it will take a lot of strength and stamina to get here, all your efforts will be worth it!
Source: Flickr.com/ dronepicr
Samariá Gorge
Another gorge worth going to is Samariá Gorge. Now, this is an easier trail to take on as wooden logs, rails, and bridges lay out the path. Unlike in Kourtaliotiko Gorge, where Mother Nature truly takes over, this place has a more organized trail for you to work with. And the views you get to see along the way are second to none! Think forested mountains, basking in all their untouched glory. Fairytale-like woodlands where it seems like you might see charming critters if you're lucky enough. And freshwater streams where you can cool off along the way! It will be the most scenic hike you'll ever go on in Crete!
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Lapplaender
Voulisma
Of course, since this is Crete, this list can't end without a beach. And though there are a ton of shorelines that are worthy to be put on this list, the calm coast of Voulisma is the most suited! Why? Because this list is all about the most scenic spots on the island and Voulisma beach takes the cake. This vast expanse of white sands is among the most beautiful in Crete, looking as clear as a well-moisturized face! Once you see the white sands contrast against the gradient sea of blue jewel tones, you'll also agree this place defines 'scenic' in every sense of the word!
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ ArtemiyPavlov
It's safe to say that Crete island, as a whole, is an entire collection of scenic spots. But there are those that simply stand out in more ways than one. If you want to see the true beauty of this Greek Island, make sure to see these scenic locations while you're here!
Crete is such a beautiful place that even from your
luxury home here, you get to enjoy quite a scene! One that you won't find anywhere else!
