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Useful information that you may not know about the island of Crete:
- The island was first mentioned as Kaptara. The name Crete appears in Homer's Odyssey.
- It is considered the oldest inhabited part of Europe.
- More than 50% of Crete is located above 500 meters in altitude.
- The Lasithi Plateau is the largest flat area of Crete (altitude 850 meters).
- Crete is 260 km long and 60 km wide. 12 km is the narrowest point.
- There are over 200 gorges.
- The Samaria Gorge is one of the largest in Europe.
- More than 5000 recorded caves.
- Gourgouthakas in the White Mountains is the deepest cave in Greece, 1208 m, 44th in the world.
- There are only 84 caves in the world deeper than 1000 meters.
- Most rivers have water only after a heavy rain.
- The coastline of Crete is 1046 km.
- The sea water is so clear that you can see up to 40 meters deep.
- In 365 BC a devastating earthquake raised the western part of Crete up to 9 meters.
- There are 34 islands around Crete (larger than 100 acres).
- The highest mountain is Psiloritis 2456 meters.
- Snow is common in the large mountains from November to May.
- Every 1,000 years, Crete grows 1 centimeter from the dust of the Sahara brought by the southern winds.
- In southern Crete, swallows remain all year round.
- The distance of Crete from Africa is almost the same as from Europe.
- There are over 1750 species of plants, 160 of which are endemic.
- There are over 30,000,000 olive trees.
Source: PhoenixAnalytica
Nearby Attractions
Villa GGK is located in the peaceful countryside of Skepasti, just 2 km from Panormo and its sandy beaches.
The location is ideal for enjoying the privacy of a secluded villa while remaining close to the beaches, restaurants and villages of the north coast of Crete.
Panormo is the closest seaside village, with sandy beaches, traditional tavernas, cafés, bars and water activities.
Bali, another popular coastal village with several beaches, restaurants and watersports, is approximately 5 km away.
Rethymno, with its historic Old Town, Venetian harbour and lively waterfront, is approximately 25 km from Villa GGK.
The nearby villages of Perama and Melidoni also offer an opportunity to experience a more authentic side of Crete.
Panormo beach village
Panormo village and beach are approximately 2 km from Villa GGK, just a short drive away.
It's a lovely little village with perfect restaurants, taverns and cafes that you will love.
But best of all there are some sandy beaches that you can enjoy there.
There is also a scuba diving school you can try.
I am sure this village will not disappoint you.
Bali beach village
Bali village and its beaches are approximately 5 km from Villa GGK, offering a wider choice of sandy beaches, restaurants, cafés and watersports.
This is a bigger beach village with lots of cafes, restaurants, taverns, sandy beaches and watersports.
Our choice is the last beach (Karavostasi) or (Evita beach).
Perama
Perama is the closest town.
It's about 10km away from Villa GGK.
There are supermarkets where locals do their shopping.
This is the right spot to buy your groceries.
Rethymno Old Town
Rethymno Old Town is one of the most beautiful historic areas of Crete, with narrow streets, Venetian and Ottoman buildings, traditional restaurants and the famous Venetian harbour. It is approximately 25 km from Villa GGK and is an ideal choice for an afternoon or evening visit.
Melidoni cave
Melidoni Cave is one of the most fascinating natural and historical attractions near Villa GGK. Located near the village of Melidoni, the cave is known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites and its important place in Cretan history. Explore the atmospheric underground chambers and learn about the stories and legends connected with this historic site. A visit to Melidoni Cave can easily be combined with a trip to Margarites and the surrounding traditional villages.
Arkadi Monastery
Arkadi Monastery is one of the most important historical and cultural landmarks in Crete. Located in the mountains south of Rethymno, the monastery is known for its beautiful architecture and its important role in the history of Crete. It is a great day trip from Villa GGK and can easily be combined with a visit to the traditional villages of the area.
Margarites Village
Margarites is a beautiful traditional village famous for its long pottery-making tradition. Its narrow streets, old stone houses, small workshops and traditional tavernas make it a wonderful place to experience a quieter and more authentic side of Crete.
Eleftherna Archaeological Site
The archaeological site and museum of Eleftherna offer a fascinating look at the ancient history of Crete. The site is located in a beautiful mountainous landscape and is an excellent choice for visitors interested in archaeology, history and the ancient civilizations of the island.
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