Summer Sun in Crete

Crete is a popular destination for British tourists, particularly in the summer months when temperatures are high and there's plenty to do. I spent 10 days on Crete with my husband and 14-year-old son and had a great time. Here is why I think you'll love it too: There is something for everyone. What is there not to like about Greece, the people, the food, the scenery, crystal clear water and stunning beaches – to name a few! The island itself is large and there are many places to visit and things to do. You could spend a week here just exploring the coastline and never get bored. It is well known as a safe place to visit too so it makes an ideal holiday choice if you have children or want somewhere you know they will be safe on holiday.

Getting there is easy. There are plenty of direct flights from the UK or you can incorporate getting here as part of the adventure and combine it with another Greek Island or indeed the mainland and travel here by ferry. Lots of my clients have chosen this option and loved the variety. The weather when you arrive will depend on what time of year you go. If it's summer, it will be warm and sunny with plenty of blue skies. If it is winter, then expect rain and windy days as well as some snow in the mountains. We flew to Heraklion, the main city of the island and it was around one hours drive to Elounda, which was our base on the East Coast. The airport was in Heraklion, the main city of Crete. We had expected it to be small and remote, but it turned out that Heraklion is quite a big place—it has its own port and everything! It can take some time to drive around Crete if you are renting a car or taking a bus, but it's worth it. There is so much more to see than just beaches! The scenery is stunning, especially on the drive from Heraklion in the north to Agios Nikolaos in the east, then further along through Elounda and into Plaka, overlooking Spinalonga.

Crete is a large island, but you don't need to go too far off the beaten track to discover some of its amazing sights. The biggest city on Crete is Iraklion, and it's here that you will find where most people arrive to venture down the coast to visit one of Crete's most famous landmarks: Spinalonga. This fortified island was built by the Venetians in the 16th century and was inhabited until 1958, latterly as a leper colony.

We love visiting historical sites and seeing places that you only know through books or TV. Crete was no exception. I have read lots about the area and one of my favourite books is 'The Island' by Victoria Hislop, it was fun recreating the trip the character made to Spinalonga, from Plaka. The village of Plaka is around three miles from Elounda, you can walk, but not recommended with children or at night. If you don't fancy the walk, it is very easy to get a bus or taxi. Plaka is a must see in this area, it is steeped in history and is now a very pretty fishing village. You can get a ferry from here, across to Spinalonga, I would recommend getting a guide to take you around Spinalonga, it is fascinating to see how this was a town in its own right and how the lepers lived here.

You can also spend your summer days at the beach, where you’ll find plenty of sand and water. If you prefer something a little less active, consider taking a donkey ride through an olive grove, or visiting the local zoo to see the animals that live on Crete! If you’re traveling with kids, you should visit one of the many parks and swimming pools. Most are equipped with slides and playgrounds that will keep them entertained for hours — as well as provide some much-needed rest for tired parents! The beach at Elounda has plenty of water sports to keep all ages entertained. Whilst we stayed in Elounda on the East Coast, I took the opportunity to visit several properties in Elounda and the surrounding area. At Travel Counsellors, we have a great presence of Direct Contract hotels, and it was great to see them in person and discover how each one would suit different type of travellers. We took the opportunity to enjoy the water sports in Elounda, the beach is beautiful and only steps from our hotel. We also took a trip to Agios Nikolas by public bus (it was very luxurious!), much busier than Elounda but worth a visit. Agios Nikolas hosts a multitude of shops, tavernas and bars, you would not struggle to fill a day here.

Cretan food is famous for its olive oil, honey, herbs and cheese. That is why you'll find many dishes on Crete that are made with these ingredients. Cretan wine is very palatable and served mainly in a carafe to accompany dinner. The tavernas in both Plaka and Elounda were all superb, I do have a few favourites which I can share with anyone who is visiting. My favourite was one tucked in an old village outside Elounda, you would have to know how to find it and it is worth it, you can either climb the 800 metres or get a taxi to drop you close by –getting back into town is a walk downhill, the shortcut is a goat track – torches necessary!

Snorkelling is one of the most popular summer activities in Crete. The waters around the island are teeming with colourful fish and other sea creatures, making it easy to take a break from your beach lounger to go snorkelling or swimming. But if you are looking for something a bit different, ask me about some unique locations on Crete that offer beautiful views along with their beach experiences.

Crete is a great holiday destination for people who enjoy beaches, sightseeing and amazing food. The island of Crete, one of Greece's most popular holiday spots, it has it all: miles upon miles of pristine beaches, stunning natural beauty, and an abundance of ancient ruins.

Family holidays are one way we reconnect with each other; it is much harder to be grumpy or stressed when you're on holiday, even with a teenager! It is so important to book a holiday that will suit everyone. Crete has so many different accommodation options, from 3* typically Greek accommodation, to the marvellous 5* properties where you will have the ultimate luxury and every facility you need for both adults and children. Travel Counsellors boast many Direct Contract properties on the Island, which I was able to visit on my trip and therefore can tailor recommendations, based on your needs - there is no substitute for first hand experience and recommendations.