Island Flavors

Must-Do: For cultural insight into Crete’s storied past, visit the Palace of Knossos and explore the remnants of this Minoan stronghold, which dates to the Neolithic period. The original royal residence, with its more than 1,500 rooms, was the home of King Minos and supposedly the Minotaur (a Greek mythical creature that had the body of a man and the head of a bull), who was believed to have lived in a dark labyrinth under the palace.

Eat: Discover the rich Mediterranean flavors of Cretan food, including a variety of meze starters (the Greek version of Spanish tapas), at a local taverna or kafeneia (traditional coffee house). Be sure to order to the table saganaki (pan-fried slices of Greek cheese), dolmades (vine leaves filled with rice, minced meat, and a herb mixture), and tzatziki (a creamy dip made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, and mint) served alongside warm pita bread. For a main dish, kleftiko (slow-cooked lamb with tomato and potato all seasoned with garlic) with a glass of Sangria infused with fruit.

Day-Trip: Experience the island’s natural beauty during a visit to Lake Kournas — Crete’s only freshwater lake — located about 17 miles west of Rethymno. Idyllically set in a valley surrounded by oak and cypress trees, it’s a tranquil setting for a swim, picnic, or simply sunbathing on the white-sand beaches. Water sports such as kayaking and paddle boating are also available. On the water and along the shore, watch for rare wildlife, including the white-throated kingfisher, the great crested grebe, and a unique species of two-colored turtle with spots on its shell.