A Guide to the Traditional Events and Festivals of Crete in Spring

Considering a visit to Crete during the summer? Why not consider visiting in spring instead! With its balmy and temperate climate, coupled with manageable journey times, exquisite food and reduced accommodation rates, it is the ideal destination for a crowd-free escape. Enjoy the luminous landscapes illuminated by blossoming trees and wildflowers in bloom, beneath the backdrop of the snow-capped White Mountains. For the perfect weeklong getaway, why not stay at the Arosmari Village Hotel just outside Vamos – an undisturbed th century village? The hotel is composed of sensitively refurbished stone and cypress-wood cottages, providing the ultimate ambience for a peaceful trip.

Accommodation at this location includes well-appointed rooms with wood-beamed ceilings and shady terraces. The highlight, however, is its magnificent garden featuring roses and lavender bushes that encircle a picturesque chapel and a venerable stone shepherd’s hut. A bountiful swimming pool is present as well, but even more marvelous than that are the hidden spots throughout the garden, where cushioned loungers are sheltered beneath lemon and orange trees. After a day of guided exploration, one can spend an afternoon relaxed at this idyllic place. In the mornings, guests have access to a lavish breakfast buffet followed by a range of moderately challenging trails led by native guide Jonathan Peat.

I am enthralled with the flower-covered plateau of Megala Chorafia near the Minoan city of Aptera; this is undoubtedly my preferred walk of the week. Not only does it boast stunning views of the Mediterranean and captivating archaeological ruins, but I am equally enchanted with the luxuriant flora beneath my feet; Jerusalem sage, diminutive wild orchids and blue pimpernels. At times it seems as if I am meandering through a massive salad bowl, and as I walk through lush meadows along archaic pathways, Jonathan enriches our experience with tales of the local area and guidelines for preparing plant concoctions.

On our daily walks, we have the pleasure of sampling some of the finest fruits the area has to offer. With the help of insider knowledge, we have been able to discover Taverna Moustakas in Stilos, where we are treated to an abundance of meze, succulent lamb chops and a variety of locally produced wines.
Weaving our way through Stilos and its surrounding areas, one of the highlights is a fifth-century BC Hellenistic bridge that has survived the test of time. As we wander through the fields, discovering more of the natural beauty of the region, including wild asparagus and cyclamen, we eventually make our way to the small village of Maza.

After a leisurely stroll through a timeless olive grove, we arrive at an awe-inspiring church dedicated to St. Nicholas and graced with intricate frescoes by Ioannis Pagomenos, a masterful th century Cretan artist. During our journey, the gracious hospitality of Jonathan and Myriam is further punctuated by memorable picnic lunches they have lovingly prepared for us. Following this respite, we embark upon a strenuous trek along ancient Venetian pathways on the Omalos plateau. Here, amidst a breathtaking expanse of arid plains and craggy cliff faces dotted with goats, we observe majestic griffon vultures and buzzards soaring in the sky above.

On this exhilarating off-season walking holiday in Greece, individuals are able to enjoy the luxury of having a dreamy slice of the island entirely to themselves. By taking three distinct tours between Naxos and Santorini, guests are privy to routes which take them far away from the hustle and bustle of tourists. Both islands are exceptionally beautiful during the springtime, prior to the primary tourist season. The excursion includes all transfers, route directions, maps and B&B accommodation in picturesque hotels (macsadventure.com). For those looking to explore the lesser-known parts of Corfu’s popular western coast, a self-guided tour is available with Hidden Corfu.

In Summary

Our journey to St. Nicholas’ church and subsequent trek along Venetian pathways in the Omalos plateau have been nothing short of magical. Our experience has been enriched by the generous hospitality of Jonathan and Myriam, our informative guide, and the captivating beauty of Nature. From rocky cliff faces to soaring birds, and from fresh fare perfect for picnics to masterful frescoes by Ioannis Pagomenos, this journey is one that will stay with us for years to come.