The local capital is host to thousands of visitors every year. At its heart is the lake “Vouliagmeni” (sunken lake), a volcanic submersion where according to Greek myths the goddesses Athena and Artemis washed their hair. All explorations into it, including Jacque Cousteau’s, have ended in a winding system of underwater caves without end. Red rocks and trees on its western slopes add peculiar magic to the scenery. Strolling through the many shops of the city and the many buzzing cafes and eateries will fill the day very pleasantly.

There are places in Crete so well hidden that even the mythical gods could not find. The cave of Zeus, Dikteon Andron, is one of them. Starting from the old provincial capital, Neapoli, follow the signs to the village of Vryses and the Lasithi plateau where, depending on the time of year, the colors change radically with a backdrop of 2000-meter peaks. Visiting the traditional windmills, the small villages with coffee shops on each square, the Lasinthos Eco park and tavernas will get you closer to the local spirits. And do not miss...

...οn the opposite side of the plateau, behind the village of Psyhro, lies the mythical cave where, Zeus, the father of the Olympian gods, was born. Archaeologists have brought to light artifacts dating from the 7th century B.C., while its natural beauty explains why it has been a holy place through the millennia. Be prepared for 15 minutes long uphill and be assured that the cave will compensate you! For those who don’t fear the dirt roads, there is also an amazing mountain route from Mesa Lasithi, next to the Havgas canyon, to the Katharo plateau.

Elounda is a collection of three villages, Ano (upper) and Kato (lower) Elounda sitting above the port, Skisma, nestled at the head of the bay of Elounda with a view of the beautiful Venetian castle on the island of Kalydon, the famous “Spinalonga”. Since ancient times, this island was site to a fortress that protected the port of Olous from marauding pirates, while in the 20th century it was used for the exile of patients suffering from Hansen’s disease (leprosy). Nowadays, it is a remarkable site where little boats will take you to throughout the season. Opposite the island is Plaka, a fishing village with traditional seaside homes and openings that play stage every summer to the “Plakiana” traditional music festival, and whose tavernas serve the freshest fish throughout the year.

Just after Aghios Nikolaos is the turn towards the traditional village of Kritsa and the Byzantine church of Panagia Kera with its intricate wall paintings dating to the 13th century. Continuing around Kritsa, one passes its small but beautiful canyon, whose ascent requires about an hour of walking through virgin nature.

From the end of the canyon you can return easily by taking a path on its upper lip that ends at ancient Lato, a Minoan acropolis dating to the 5th century B.C. on an amazing panoramic position. The road after Lato continues through the olive groves to Lakonia, where you should stop for a snack at traditional café in Panagia village. Recently, a museum of antique cars and motorcycles was inaugurated on the square.

Few can believe how easy it is to rise from the seaside paradise of Elounda to a height of 2000 meters and enjoy the mountains. Just after Kritsa, you follow the sign to “Katharo” plateau, through gorges and forests of ancient Cretan pine (Quercus Coccifera). Arriving at the plateau is equally spectacular, as you see before you the traditional “metohia” (cultivations). At its entrance, the café of Mr.Siganos is the last contact with civilization. Don’t neglect to see the bones of ancient pygmy elephants and hippos dating from 14 thousand years ago! Crossing the plateau will lead you to the dense forest of Selakano, where another beautiful mountain route will take you to the village of Kroustas.

The CretAquarium, near Heraklion, occupies an area of approximately 5000m2 and is part of “THALASSOCOSMOS”, which hosts a research center, technology, education and recreation facilities. Both as a result of its in size and its exceptional design it is the largest site of its kind in the Mediterranean. When you arrive, you will be impressed by the contemporary building, whose architectural design evokes a ship with its bow pointing towards the western horizon of the sea. The tour is estimated to last about one hour, if the visitor wishes to examine all the organisms and exhibits.

For golf lovers who can appreciate the sport’s need for concentration, who enjoy the competition and can find the harmony that golf provides, there is a truly unique 18-hole "Desert Style" golf course, in the area of Hersonissos. It is about 35 minutes [approximately 40km] drive from Citrus exclusive and combines modern infrastructure, international golf standards and a majestic landscape as an idyllic setting to take in the great pleasures of the sport. Don’t miss it..