Sunday, June 24, 2001

A Visit to the island of Crete

 In June Mandy flew into Stanstead airport from Sweden and we stopped at The Fox and Hounds pub in Newbury for a spot of lunch.

We then booked a trip to the Greek Island of Crete.  We flew from Cardiff airport and our base was the Marie Kelley apartments in the coastal town of Gouves.

Gouves, Crete, had the charm of a small, peaceful village nestled along the northern coast of the island. Its relaxed atmosphere invited you to slow down and soak in the simple pleasures of Greek life. The beach area, though modest, offered soft sands and the warm, gentle waters of the Mediterranean, perfect for an afternoon swim or a quiet walk. Tavernas dotted the shore, with locals serving up fresh seafood and traditional Cretan dishes, while the surrounding landscape was a mix of olive groves and rugged hills. It was a place where time seemed to stretch, offering a laid-back escape from the rush of modern life.

On a very hot day, we took a trip out to the town of Agious Nikolas, we stolled around the harbour but it really too hot to walk far.


We jumped on a pleasure boat  visited the island of Spinalona which once housed a leper colony.

The island, with its haunting history as a former leper colony, has an eerie but fascinating atmosphere. Walking through its stone alleyways, we could feel the weight of its past, with the crumbling houses and Venetian fortifications offering a window into a time long gone. The island is framed by stunning views of the azure waters of the Mirabello Bay, which contrast with its somber history.

Opposite the island lies the charming port town of Plaka. With its quaint tavernas lining the waterfront, we enjoyed the peaceful vibe, watching the fishing boats bobbing gently in the crystal-clear waters. From the port, Spinalonga seemed serene, a world unto itself, waiting to be explored. The experience was a beautiful balance between history and the tranquility of the Cretan sea.


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