Tourist Attractions & Monuments Crete

It's the highest point on the island. Built in 1880 by the French Ottoman Lighthouse Company, it was the second most powerful lighthouse in the world at the time. Located at an altitude of 360 m, its light covered a distance of 42 miles. However, at the slightest fog, the lighthouse became completely ineffective. Recently renovated, it has been fitted with a café and a souvenir shop in an architectural style that can be controversial. Nevertheless, it is very pleasant to have a drink in front of the setting sun in this unique site.

The sandy beach of the city is very popular. Other beaches and coves, not sand but covered with a variety of rocky terraces, are located a few kilometres east to Agia Fotia.

Its name is due to the sources of fresh fresh water coming out of the rocks (often dried in summer). Possible Wildlife camping: some of them settle there for several months. Not much shade, but a small tavern sells refreshments and what to eat in season. Above the beach, a hotel has been quietly located at the bottom of the new asphalt road.

Discover the fauna and flora of Crete, in the middle of a pristine nature. No less than 150 species of fruit trees, medicinal or ornamental plants, some animals are recorded in this park about 200 000 m ², at the feet of the White Mountains. You will follow the many trails set in this lush vegetation, without being able to imagine that here everything had burned in 2003! In summer, early risers will have the privilege of enjoying air freshness.

Located 30 km from Sitia, to the east, the beach of Vaï is really striking. Famous and magnificent, the long sandy beach is bordered by an incredible and vast natural palm grove, unique in Europe. Under the 5,000 or so palm trees that surround the beach, you can take shelter between two swims. The water is translucent, the sand is clear and the rocks are beige ochre. Sun loungers and umbrellas (paying and expensive) are available on part of the beach. Numerous nautical and sports activities are also offered on the beach.

The collection of the archeological museum brings together the results of excavations in the region, like the museums of Heraklion or Hania. The sites in the Rethymnon region were found to be numerous and beautiful. The Department of Roman Antiques is particularly important. You will also admire a beautiful collection of sarcophagi with surprisingly well preserved painted decorations. In recent years, the main museum has been closed for work and some of the collections have been transferred to St. Francis Basilica in the old town.