15 March 2021

SPOTLIGHT ON… CRETE

SPOTLIGHT ON… CRETE

The island of Crete has become one of the most popular areas in Greece. Its crystal clear waters, rich and diverse 9000 year history and stunning beaches not to mention the eclectic cuisine are just some of the reasons why this island is so attractive to visitors. Crete is certainly a unique place to take a trip to, whether it’s for the magnificent beaches or its interesting culture, it’s an experience you will never forget.

10 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT CRETE

  • Whilst the Romans and ‘Classical’ Greeks were certainly ahead of their time when it came to advancing civilisation, for Europe, the start of civilisation began in Crete. The Minoans lived on the island for around 1,500 years until a tsunami struck wiping them out as a result of the eruption of the volcano in nearby Santorini. The Minoans were inventing coins, trading, and building a navy whilst the rest of Europe were still using much more basic equipment.

  • The island is said (not just by Cretans) to have the most beautiful waters anywhere in the Mediterranean, with underwater views of up to 40 metres.

  • In ancient times, the father of medicine, Hippocrates was prescribing ‘Cretan air’ to his ill patients as it was/is said to have healing powers.

  • Crete is the birthplace of Zeus! One of the most important aspects of Greek history is its mythology and the father of all Gods was said to have been born high in the Cretan mountains.

  • Crete is the largest island in Greece and the 5th biggest island in the Mediterranean.

  • The architecture of the old city of Knossos still remains standing. This Bronze Age site has been called Europe’s oldest city and amazingly, the palace shows evidence that people inhabited Ancient Greece up to 9,000 years ago.

  • Crete isn’t simply beautiful beaches, it has a very diverse landscape including mountains and canyons. It also has over 400 gorges, with the biggest being over 18km long.

  • There are a variety of different musical instruments that originated in Crete, including the laouto (Cretan lute), and the Cretan Lyra!

  • During the prehistoric era, Crete had its own variety of elephant known as the dwarf mammoth.

  • Olive trees are a key aspect of Crete. The two oldest olive trees in the world are still base on the island, one in the village of Vouves and the other in Kavousi.

BIG BLUE IN CRETE

So, now you know a little bit more about this wonderful and interesting island its time to give you an insight as to what you can expect from your trip with us!

The Big Blue team will take you on the Minoan Trail, which is a series of swims based around the coastline of the Sfakia region in the south of Crete. We will also take you walking down a very famous gorge, the allied forces walked during 2nd WW to escape to North Africa. We have local knowledge and expertise in the area and can offer you a truly unique experience of the island.

Along with our local Cretan guides, we have identified unique swimming locations where you will be able to take in the breathtaking scenery, ancient ruins and have a taste of local food at hand-picked seaside tavernas, all centred around a wonderful swimming experience in the crystal clear waters surrounding the island.

The 7-day programme, approximately 5k swim per day swim takes place on a Saturday and finishes the following Saturday morning. You’ll be taken care of from the moment you arrive with welcome drinks and an introduction to safety by our Crete based team.

Our Big Blue guides will analyse your swimming technique and offer expert advice to ensure you reduce the risk of injury in the water!

You’ll also have ample opportunity to explore caves and beaches, as well as setting your eyes on the Cretan gorges, coastline and ancient ruins, not to mention the delights of the Cretan cuisine - famous even amongst the Greeks - and of course your above and underwater experience!

At the end of the trip you will have swum from Ayia Roumeli, past Sfakia to the Virtomartis beach - approximately 24k!

So, what are you waiting for? After the turmoil the world has faced this past year it’s about time we all did something fantastic and unforgettable!

We still have spaces left for summer, and you can find out more information and book your place [here]

We can’t wait to see you there!

Proud partners of the big blue swim

Big Blue Swim

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