ABOUT CRETE

Crete, the largest island in Greece

A place where ancient myths, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality come together to create an unforgettable experience. Washed by the blue waters of the Aegean and Libyan Seas, the island offers endless variety, from rugged mountains and dramatic gorges to fertile plains, olive groves, and golden beaches.

Visitors can explore natural wonders such as the Samaria Gorge, the pink sands of Elafonissi, and the exotic Balos Lagoon, or relax on tranquil shores framed by crystal-clear waters. Inland, charming villages and traditional stone houses reveal the island’s timeless rhythm of life.

Crete’s history stretches back more than four thousand years, to the time of the Minoans — Europe’s first great civilization. The legendary Palace of Knossos brings their stories to life, while Venetian ports, Byzantine monasteries, and Ottoman fortresses trace the many cultures that have shaped the island.

The island’s cuisine reflects its spirit: simple, fresh, and full of flavor. Meals are made with local olive oil, herbs, mountain cheeses, and seasonal produce, often enjoyed with a glass of Cretan wine and shared among friends in a seaside taverna or a mountain village courtyard.

Cretans are known for their warmth, music, and deep-rooted traditions. The sound of the lyra, lively festivals, and open-hearted hospitality make every visitor feel at home. Each region offers its own character, the romantic harbor of Chania, the cultural charm of Rethymno, the vibrant energy of Heraklion, the luxury of Elounda and Agios Nikolaos, and the scenic tranquility of the Lassithi Plateau.

From sunrise over the White Mountains to sunset on the Libyan Sea, Crete captures the heart with its beauty, history, and spirit. It is an island where every journey becomes a story, and every visitor leaves with memories that last a lifetime.

Discover Elounda – The Jewel of Crete

Elounda rests like a secret along Crete’s northeastern shore, a place where the sea shimmers in endless shades of blue and time seems to slow with the rhythm of the waves. Once a humble fishing village, it has become a haven of quiet elegance, where luxury blends effortlessly with the warmth of Cretan life.

The bay lies calm and sheltered, cradled by hills that glow gold in the afternoon sun, and across the water the historic island of Spinalonga rises, its ancient Venetian walls whispering stories of love, loss, and resilience.

Along the harbor, fishing boats rock gently beside tavernas filled with the scent of grilled fish and wild herbs. The air carries a trace of salt and jasmine, and laughter drifts from shaded terraces where travelers linger over a glass of raki as the light fades. The beaches here are soft and golden, the sea so clear it mirrors the sky. Hidden coves invite quiet swims, while elegant resorts offer moments of pure indulgence and peace.

Beyond Elounda, the spirit of Crete unfolds in every direction. Boats cross the bay to Spinalonga’s storied shores. A short drive leads to Agios Nikolaos, where the lake meets the sea in a dance of color and sound. Higher in the hills lies Kritsa, a village wrapped in olive trees and timeless tradition, and farther still, the Lassithi Plateau spreads wide beneath the mountains, dotted with old windmills turning in the breeze.

Elounda is not just a place to visit but a feeling, a soft melody of sea and stone, history and heart. Here, every sunrise feels like a promise, and every sunset leaves behind a touch of gold on the soul.

Attractions near the conference hotel

1. Spinalonga Island A historic Venetian fortress and former leper colony accessible by boat from Elounda or Plaka. Explore ancient streets, fortified walls, and enjoy breathtaking views of Elounda Bay. Guided tours bring the island’s poignant history to life. Sunset views are especially picturesque.
2. Elounda Beaches
   • Elounda Beach: A well organized main beach with sunbeds, umbrellas, and watersport rentals, perfect for families and adventure seekers. 
   • Plaka & Kolokytha Beaches: Secluded coves and sandy stretches ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying scenic tranquility. Nearby tavernas serve fresh seafood.
   • Spinalonga Beach & Chiona Beach: Great for cooling off after exploring the historical sites, peaceful and less crowded.
3. Ancient Ruins and Historical Sites
   • Olous (Sunken City): Explore submerged ruins of an ancient Dorian settlement visible in shallow waters while snorkeling or wading near Kalydon.
   • Monastery of Panagia Kera: A 15th-century monastery with beautiful Byzantine frescoes and serene surroundings, offering panoramic views of the hills and valleys.
   • Ieros Naos Agios Konstandinou kai Elenis: A charming church in Elounda’s harbor with vibrant local character.
4. Elounda Town & Plaka Village Stroll along Elounda’s waterfront and Plaka’s quaint streets, discovering local crafts, pottery, jewelry, and traditional cafés. Ideal for people-watching and enjoying Cretan culture and gastronomy.