Akrotiri Holidays
If you're looking for a taste of the real Crete, what could be more authentic than the home of Zorba the Greek.
It's over 40 years since Anthony Quinn danced on the beach in the classic movie 'Zorba the Greek'. But the Akrotiri Peninsula, where many of the scenes were set, still has the charm and beauty that helped make the film such an enduring hit. Here, it's all about sleepy villages, their whitewashed houses gleaming in the midday sun. And acres of glorious countryside, where olive groves and vineyards sit alongside fields carpeted with colourful wild herbs and flowers. Not to mention the gorgeous sea views and sunsets that'll whip your breath away. If you're a party animal you most definitely won't be at home here, with nightlife centring on traditional tavernas. But if you want to find the real Crete, with oodles of attractions, including breathtaking scenic, beautiful flora and fauna and shimmering sandy beaches in hidden coves - then this captivating corner of the world could just be your nirvana. It's not just sunbathing holidaymakers who find Akrotiri gets under their skin. The famous Greek revolutionary and politician Eleftherios Venizelos and his son Sophoklis both asked to be buried at the lovely little Profitis Ilias church, in order to be able to look over Chania for eternity. Eternal devotion may be a bit much to ask. But for the one or two weeks you're there you'll find it difficult not to be enchanted by the relaxed atmosphere and the warm welcome from the friendly locals. There are several good beaches along the peninsula, including Stavros, the one used in 'Zorba the Greek', a superb horseshoe-shaped bay of golden sand with shallow waters that's perfect for swimming. And don't forget to check out the ancient monasteries dotted along the coast, some of which are set in truly spectacular locations.
You're on the sunset side of the island, choosing a sheltered sandy cove or a sweeping half-moon bay, visiting sleepy villages of simple whitewashed houses and looking out on a landscape that seems untouched by time … you're enjoying another easy day on your holidays in Akrotiri.
This peaceful peninsula is far from being a place to party. But if you're the type who likes to hike over herb-scented hillsides awash with wild flowers, to leave your footsteps in the sand on a water's edge stroll, and to seek out a typical taverna for a meal that lasts all evening - Akrotiri holidays provide the perfect setting. The location for the classic film 'Zorba the Greek', the golden sands of Stavros beach were the stage for Anthony Quinn and that famous dance. Little has changed in the intervening 40-odd years. There are still olive groves for dappled shade, vineyards cloaking sunsoaked slopes, historic monasteries perched in high places, and views over coast, countryside and colourful Chania.
You'll have got the message - summer holidays to Akrotiri peninsula are unhurried affairs. This is what's known as 'the real Crete', where the living is easy, the locals are friendly, and feasting on Cretan specialities is still affordably cheap. Holidays to Akrotiri are particularly popular with families - take a look at the Aloni Apartments, where facilities include a creche and children's club. So don't leave it to the last minute. Holidays to Akrotiri sell fast.