Glamsea

Crete is well known for its hiking and bike routes – those heading out on foot or on two wheels can expect to come across natural springs, rocky gorges, hidden coves and ancient castles. You might also be able to plan your routes to stop off at places like Douloufakis or Lyrarakis wineries (half an hour/40 minutes if you’d like to drive straight there). At least a day in Heraklion (15 minutes’ drive) is a must, of course – it’s a great place for a stroll (punctuated with stops for coffee, cakes and snacks) and has some excellent attractions including the Archaeological Museum, the Venetian Harbour and the Historical Museum of Crete (the only place to see works by El Greco in his place of birth). Outings beyond that might take you to the famed ruins of Knossos (20 minutes), the pretty hilltop village of Acharnes (half an hour) or the eerie abandoned village of Spinalonga (an hour and a quarter).