All About Us and Why We Love Crete
Greek Island Life
We love Crete, and although we do not claim to be experts, we wanted to share our love of Crete with others. We have lived for some time near Agios Nikolaos, in the West of the Island in Kalyves, near Chania, and also near Rethymno.
Now, we split our time between Crete, Cyprus and the UK.
Our experiences, our insider knowledge, our Cretan friends and our contacts, make us ideally placed to offer a unique website all about the Greek island of Crete.
Whether you want to live here permanently, want a slice of Greek Island life, want to buy a holiday home, or just visit on a summer vacation, this site will give you plenty of REAL useful information.
We've done most things in Crete that people will need to do when thinking about moving here, buying a house or coming on holiday. Whilst living in Crete...
- we've bought a house
- we've sold a house
- we've rented a house
- we've lived in the West
- we've lived in the East
- we've made Greek friends and ex-pat friends
- we've driven in Crete
- we've rented a car
- we've bought a car
- we've dealt with lawyers, accountants, banks, the police, the tax office, etc
- we've got a Residency Permit
- we've got satellite TV
- we've got broadband internet
- we've dealt with the electric & water company, and the telephone people
- we've dealt with plumbers, electricians and septic tank technicians!
- we've done all this - and lots more!
At Completely Crete, we are passionate advocates for the enchanting island of Crete, bringing you decades of firsthand experience and insider knowledge. From its sun-drenched beaches to its picturesque villages, we’ve explored every corner of this island to provide you with the best advice for unforgettable vacations or even relocating to this idyllic paradise. Whether it’s the secrets of the Cretan diet, the history behind ancient ruins, or the best-hidden beaches, we pride ourselves on offering insights you won’t find anywhere else.
Crete isn’t just a destination; it’s a way of life, and we’re here to help you embrace it. With our deep love for the island and years of expertise, we’re dedicated to making your journey to Crete as seamless and magical as possible. Ready to uncover all that Crete has to offer?
GREEK ISLAND LIFE
Our Completely Crete website is ever evolving and we are constantly updating information and adding more pages, information and photos about Greek Island life.
But for now, please enjoy exploring this website.
Why We Love Crete
We love Crete for its warm, welcoming people, its laid-back way of life and its Cretan diet of fresh, home-grown food. The weather and the beaches are a bonus. Our guide to the traditional Cretan diet explains how the islanders eat.
Villages and Resorts
Small rural villages such as Kalo Horio in Lassithi and Gavalohori in the Chania region are among our favourite places. We also enjoy the busy resorts: Stalis and Malia in the Heraklion region, and Agia Marina and Platanias near Chania.
The south coast feels like another world. Matala and Agia Galini in the centre of the south coast, and Paleochora and magical Loutro in the west, are a complete contrast to the resorts of the north coast.
Things to Do in Crete
Crete offers something for almost every interest. Artists and photographers love the landscapes. Birdwatchers find a wide variety of birds all year round, and the flowers of Crete are wonderful too.
Cycling and hiking are popular too. Many visitors walk the Samaria Gorge, but many smaller gorges cross the island. Swimming, snorkelling and diving fill many holiday days. The most popular pastime of all is a sunbed by day and good food and drink by night.
The Cities of Crete
Each of the main cities of Crete has its own character:
- Agios Nikolaos has its lake and marina.
- Heraklion has its museums, restaurants and nightlife.
- Rethymno has its fortress, shopping and hideaway restaurants.
- Chania has its Venetian harbour and charming old town.
- Sitia is less cosmopolitan, with a relaxed, slower pace and a charm of its own.
Mountains, Gorges and Beaches
Elafonisi beach in south-west Crete
Crete's gorges, mountain ranges and herb-scented hillsides are as much a part of the island as its beaches. Some beaches are long stretches of golden sand, while others are small secluded coves. The Cretan Sea washes the north coast and the Libyan Sea the south. Our guide to Crete's beaches describes many more of them.
Want to discover even more of what Crete has to offer?
Explore hidden gems, must-visit spots, and insider tips below!
