Crete is the largest of the Greek islands, 160 miles long and 38 miles wide at its widest points. As the birthplace of European civilisation when the Minoans populated the island nearly 4,000 years ago, it posseses a rich past that gives it a mystical and magical atmosphere.

No other Greek island offers a unique combination of spectacular and varied landscapes, from the snow-capped mountains of the Lefka Ori (White Mountains) and Oros to the beautiful unspoilt beaches and blue sparkly clean waters. And unlike other Greek islands it is large enough, with a population of 600,000, to provide restaurant and other facilities in the winter.

At the southern most point of Europe, lying further south than Algiers, Crete has an ideal climate with about 330 days of sunshine a year. Average temperatures vary from a mild 10c in winter to over 35c at the height of summer. The White Mountains ensure that there is sufficient rainfall in the three months of winter, giving western Crete a lush and beautiful harvest of olives, lemons, oranges and much more….

The English Builder In Crete is situated in the village of Kalives, which has easy access to Hania Airport, Souda Bay (main ferry port) and two major towns. Hania and Rethimnon both have historic ‘old towns’ – a legacy of years of Venetian and Turkish occupation – but there are also plenty of good shopping facilities and nightlife.

However, just a few kilometres from both towns, it is possible to go back in time and experience a whole new adventure meandering into old villages where you’ll discover Cretans going about their daily chores dressed in tradional costume…and hospitality that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.