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Introduction
The Magical Island of Crete is steeped in Homeric history and culture, legends and history, stunning and beautiful views, scenery and landscapes, an extraordinary blend of past and present, and a wealth of choice for every type of visitor.
The largest of the Greek Islands, Crete is the closest island to north Africa - no wonder temperatures soar to over 40 degrees! Despite its endless appeal to masses of tourists, Crete amazes you with the ability to escape and find tranquility on unspoilt parts of the island. Stunning mountain ranges are honeycombed with caves and sliced with dramatic gorges, olive groves cover the hillsides and the fertile plains. The wild countryside is covered with wild flowers and aromatic herbs like wild fennel and basil. All along the coastline to the south there are long sandy beaches with isolated coves, and the longest beach is just a few minutes from Sunset Villa - Rethymnon. 14 kms of sand stretches eastward.
 Sunset Villa is situated in the small village of Agia Triada and the nearest town is Rethymnon, the third largest city in Crete and right on the coast of the Aegean Sea.
To the south of the town, there is a majestic backdrop of hills and mountain peaks. The history of Rethymnon is lost in time, first being inhabited around 1350 BC, and the culture supports this historic people.
The climate is temperate and Mediterranean with hot, dry summers (between 26-32°C and often over 40!). Spring and autumn are milder and temperatures range from 20-24°C. Winter on Crete is mild with little rain and the temperature doesn't fall much below 14°C.
 There are many little tavernas in Rethymnon, offering endless opportunities to indulge in the delicious freshly cooked fish and seafood, as well as a huge variety of more of Crete's culinary specialities.
 The ancient town, full of stunning architecture (see image to the left and below) and narrow streets, hosts an abundance of shops and restaurants where you can buy your own fresh food or simply sit down to a dish of freshly caught fish! The harbour restaurants in particular are famed for their mouth-watering fish dishes. And the people are so friendly and welcoming, and most speak English!
 If you choose not to venture into Rethymnon, the nearest resort is Platanias, almost due north of Agia Triada. Platanias is rather a touristy resort with the usual attractions, but there are plenty of beach-based water sports to enjoy. The beach is on the stretch of 14 kms of sandy beach running east from Rethymnon and there are restaurants and shops where you can spend your whole day. At a certain time in the year, turtles come ashore to lay their eggs on Platanias beach.
And of course, there is the Mediterranean - refreshingly clear, blue seas. Along the coast you can find endless gorges, small coves and rocky places to explore or to snorkel or go fishing from.
Or, you may wish to spend your days at Sunset Villa. Rise when you like, laze by the pool, marvel at the stunning views, relax in the peace and tranquility. At Sunset Villa, it is your freedom to do what you wish with your holiday. Or take a journey to some of the sites around the island!
And then at night, just look at the sunset! You will have to come here to know why we call it Sunset Villa! It is spectacular. Watch the day end sitting on the terrace, enjoying a glass of wine before retiring. Magic! Freedom!
Festivals and Events
The Greeks (and the Cretans) celebrate their culture, history, religion and wine throughout the year, so you will almost certainly be able to witness one of these events during your stay.
Attractions
Hania
Hania is the largest city in western Crete and is full of spectacular and beautiful Venetian and Turkish buildings and architecture, in particular the Venetian quarter, the huge fortifications and lighthouse. With its harbourside setting, Hania is known for its eating culture and colourful markets. There are also some museums worth a visit: the Archeological, Naval and Folklore.
Heraklion (Iraklio)
Heraklion is the largest city in Crete and is the centre of tourist activity, being the main airport and port. So the city is not regarded as a place to visit, but endure the usual trappings and go in search of the real city and you will find museums packed with Crete's archaelogy and history.
Knossos
Famous for its palace, Knossos is virtually at the centre of Crete's Minoan history. Near to Heraklion, the palace is truly magnificent and has to be on any list of places to visit in Crete.
Samaria Gorge
The longest in Europe, Samaria Gorge is known mostly for its outstanding beauty. At 18 kilometres in length, the gorge is about 3 metres wide at some points with the sides rising to over 600 metres. For the hiker or walker, Samaria Gorge is worth a visit.
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