Elounda Palm - Blog

GREEK ISLAND HOPPING: TOP REASONS TO VISIT CRETE THIS SUMMER

Thu, 16 Jan 2020 12:00:00 Z

Are you in the hunt for the next summer escape? Are you flirting with the idea of a “modern Odyssey”? Greek island hopping should be on your bucket list and now is the time (new year-new resolutions) dreams to come true! Now that you have already dreamed yourself on a beach, keep on reading, because here you will find the best tips on how to organize your summer holidays in Greece.

It may look chaotic to choose the right place, with all these small islands in the Aegean Sea. But that’s why we are here to help you decide the best destination for your summer Holidays. If you haven’t already got it from the title this place is definitely Crete! We highly recommend, keeping your base in Crete and if you wish you can definitely make daily trips to other Greek islands. Here you will get why…

The best connection between Cyclades, Athens, Aegean Sea, Mykonos, Santorini

Crete has two big airports, one in Heraklion (70 km from Elounda) and one in Chania. During the season there are many flights directly to Crete or through Athens, which makes it a great opportunity for a stop at the capital.

Tip: The sooner you book the flights, the cheaper you will get the tickets.

Crete has developed a huge net of flights, ferries and cruises, so you can very easily find the perfect way to reach your desired destination.

Thira (Santorini) is highly recommended for a daily excursion since it is quite small and one day is enough to explore the entire island. You can either take the ferry from the port of Heraklion or book a daily excursion to Santorini with a guide. For more information you can ask us at Elounda Palm Hotel & Suites reception desk.

Another easy combination is Mykonos- Crete. Mykonos is the notorious island for its nightlife and lifestyle. Celebrities & millionaires from all over the world visit the island of the wind for their Greek summer holidays. Elounda from the other side is famous for its tranquility and the amazing landscapes. Is there anything better than partying for 3 days in Mykonos and then relax under the sun at your private pool in Elounda?

Here you can find online tickets for all the ferries to and from Crete.

A destination on its own

Crete is the largest Greek island and the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. It has such a big biodiversity that if you travel from the east to the west side, you do not have the sense that you are on the same island. That gives you the opportunity to explore different cities, completely different landscapes, while being on the same island and without traveling a lot.

You can spend half days of your holidays in Crete, at the cosmopolitan town of Chania and the rest half in fabulous Elounda. The list of Hotels in Crete is endless with exceptional quality and atmosphere for all types of accommodation. Cretans are ready to serve you with all kinds of comforts and services.

Hurry up to find the best offer before the season starts!

Relaxation + Adventures = Crete

Crete is the ideal place for any occasion and can cover the most demanding out there. Either you are looking for the perfect honeymoon destination; either you are looking for the safest destination for your family vacation, Crete is the answer.

Are you dreaming laid back summer holidays next to emerald beaches and romantic dinners under the stars? Then Elounda is the right place to escape for tranquilization and relaxation away from any kind of stress.

If you are on the more adventurous side, your holidays in Crete will definitely not disappoint you! Mountain or beach lovers, you will find many activities and excursions. The list is endless…Kayaking, Sup, Safari on the Cretan mountains, Scuba diving, hiking, climbing and even more. Just remember to create fun moments from your family holidays in Crete.

Crossroad of Gastronomy, Culture and History

Crete’s first civilization (Minoan civilization) was the first civilization in Europe. Crete has a rich cultural and historical heritage. A visit to Knossos and Phaistos palace-the first monumental buildings in Crete- will convince you. Cobbled streets, columns, objects and tools have remained unaltered in the centuries.

The journey continues to modern history and Cretan culture. Explore all the museums, exhibitions and (don’t skip) the fortress of Spinalonga. In 1903 Spinalonga became a leper colony, where sick people were isolated. Today you can visit the island with a guide or on your own.

Tip: Read the extraordinary book The Island. The story unfolds on the island of Spinalonga during the leprosy period.

While being in Crete the one thing that will thrill you the most is definitely… food! Cretan gastronomy- the mother of Mediterranean diet- will welcome you with magical flavors and aromas. Here you will find a Cretan food guide for all the must-try dishes.

Set your senses free and enjoy the absolute summer holidays in Greece. Start your Greek island hopping and you will come back every year for new adventures. Crete and all the Greek islands will always welcome you with warmth and hospitality.

Are YOU visiting Crete this summer?

Hurry up to find the best offer before the season starts!

Relaxation + Adventures = Crete

Crossroad of Gastronomy, Culture and History

Tip: Read the extraordinary book The Island. The story unfolds on the island of Spinalonga during the leprosy period.

Are YOU visiting Crete this summer?

EXPERIENCE GREEK ORTHODOX EASTER ON YOUR HOLIDAYS IN CRETE

Fri, 29 Mar 2019 12:00:00 Z

If you are wondering, when is the best time to visit Crete in Greece or one of the Greek islands, the answer is simple and somewhat unexpected: It’s during Greek Easter. Greek Easter is always in spring, the best season to be in Crete (check here why). Nature is at its best, the island is in full bloom, the weather is pleasantly warm and everyone is enthusiastically preparing for the summer season.

This time of year is also ideal to enjoy your Greek holidays, relax and unwind under the Greek sun over a glass of raki but also the best time to explore the villages, the gorges and experience Greek culture and tradition (let alone the food)

Unlike the rest of Europe and the West, Easter time in Greece is far more important and festive compared to Christmas. Easter or “Pascha” in Greek, comes from the term Passover; the week that leads to Easter Sunday is called Holy Week and during Holy Week you will experience authentic traditions each day – a good dose of Greek culture and customs all condensed in one week!

We’ve listed today a few customs that make Easter in Greece particularly special, essentially a cheat sheet for your next Greek Easter visit:

Easter Traditions

Red Eggs & Cracking

Picture courtesy of Maria Metochianaki

Colorful eggs are part of Easter celebrations in many countries around the world. In Greece, custom has it that eggs are dyed red, a color that symbolizes the blood of Christ. During Holy Week, on Thursday, Greek households dye their eggs red, preparing for Easter Sunday.

On Saturday night, during the traditional Resurrection Dinner just after midnight, families gather around the dinner table, pick their egg and start a cracking competition for the strongest egg on the table! The strongest egg defines the winner who is blessed with good luck!

Tip: So, if you are spending Easter in Greece and you are handed a basket of red eggs, go through the cracking competition before you eat it! Pick the smallest egg, because the smallest is usually the strongest!

Fireworks

When the clock hits midnight on Holy Saturday, the church bells ring announcing the Resurrection of Christ and the sky lights up with fireworks, which symbolize the joy of the resurrection.

Holy Saturday is particularly eventful and festive around Agios Nikolaos Lake. At midnight, the priest announces the Resurrection with the Greek words “Christos Anesti” and the sky fills with fireworks that reflect on the lake’s water. The lights, reflections and wild scenery of the lake are truly magnificent and one of the best things to do in Crete as a visitor. On the other hand, in the village of Kritsa, there’s a loud and festive celebration of fireworks AND dynamites (yes, you read well!) – if you aren’t afraid of big bangs then it’s worth a visit…

Tip: If you are in Agios Nikolaos on Holy Saturday celebrations, the upper side of the lake guarantees the panoramic views!

Epitaph

Picture via Agios Nikolaos Crete

Epitaph is essentially the tomb of Christ. Every church has its own epitaph and every Holy Thursday women stay till late to decorate the epitaph with flowers from the fields, preparing it for the body of Jesus. In the evening of Holy Friday tradition has it that people walk around the town following the epitaph, holding candles and chanting hymns.

We encourage you to join this “walk”; it is very spiritual and you will experience Crete like a local!

Lampada

Picture by George M. Groutas via flickr

“Lampadas” are the decorated candles which people hold on Holy Saturday to carry home the Holy light arriving from the Holy Lands of Jerusalem. The holy light comes from Jerusalem and on Saturday midnight, the light spreads all over Greece through beautiful “lampadas”. Lampadas are particularly loved by children who anxiously wait for their godparents to bring them the lampada of the year, as per tradition.

Tip: On Holy Saturday, the night of the resurrection, hold a candle with you and when the Holy Light arrives, light your candle and spread the light to the people behind and around you, like a local!

Picture by prayitno via flickr

Food

Tsoureki

Picture by Michael Himbeault via flickr

Have you ever tried a food which you could eat any time of the day as breakfast, lunch, dinner or snack? If not, you should try tsoureki! Tsoureki is the Greek Easter sweet bread which is prepared traditionally on Holy Thursday along with the egg dying and eaten at the end of the big lent (40 day fasting period) on the Resurrection dinner and Easter Sunday. It is delicious and you can find it in many different versions. A round version with a red egg or a hole in the middle, tsoureki with chocolate, tsoureki filled with chestnut, but the traditional version is the plain tsoureki drizzled with almond flakes.

Tip: Try pairing tsoureki with a slice of Graviera cheese or dip a slice of tsoureki in milk for breakfast. Yum!

Magiritsa

Picture by twk3 via Pixabay

Magiritsa is the main dish of the Resurrection dinner held after midnight on Holy Saturday. It is essentially a lamb offal soup with dill and lemon and it’s meant to heal the stomach after 40 days of fasting before the food extravaganza on Easter Sunday!

If you plan to stay at the Elounda Palm Hotel & Suites taking advantage of our Easter offer you will enjoy the delicious magiritsa prepared by our Chef!

Tip: Don’t ask too many questions what is inside your Magiritsa, just enjoy it with plenty of lemon!

Lamp on the spit

Picture by George M. Groutas via flickr

Easter Sunday starts early, when -traditionally- the men of the house start the lamb roasting preparations alongside a bottle of raki and nibbles on the back yard. Meanwhile, the women of the house take care of the rest of the table in the kitchen, salads, roast potatoes and other nibbles for the family and friends that gather around the Easter table.

Guests of the Elounda Palm this Easter will have the chance to see the lamb preparations and enjoy themselves alongside the pool until the Easter Sunday lunch feast takes over!

Tip: Easter Sunday lunch is the only time of the year you have a good excuse to put yourself in a food coma! If you accompany your meal with raki this will help with digestion, but careful not to mix your raki with other alcoholic drinks in order to avoid a hangover!

Kokoretsi

Picture by George M. Groutas via flickr

We are slightly hesitant to deconstruct a “Kokoretsi” for you before you have the chance to try it. It’s an alternative to the typical lamb on the spit made out of offal. The preparation is difficult and requires skills, but with the proper company and good music it can be a fun ritual.

Tip: While kokoretsi is best enjoyed hot and fresh, leftovers are a great raki meze for the next day.

Greek Easter is a festive season for Greeks, the time to celebrate with friends and family after a period of fasting and spiritual concentration.The celebration vary throughout the country -each place holding its own customs and traditions- but a visit during this time of the year will leave you with memories of a lifetime.

This year join us dear friends around the Easter Sunday lunch table of the Elounda Palm Hotel, your home in Crete.

Have you experienced Greek Easter in Elounda?

When the clock hits midnight on Holy Saturday, the church bells ring announcing the Resurrection of Christ and the sky lights up with fireworks, which symbolize the joy of the resurrection.

Tip: If you are in Agios Nikolaos on Holy Saturday celebrations, the upper side of the lake guarantees the panoramic views!

Epitaph

Picture via Agios Nikolaos Crete

We encourage you to join this “walk”; it is very spiritual and you will experience Crete like a local!

Lampada

Picture by George M. Groutas via flickr

Tip: On Holy Saturday, the night of the resurrection, hold a candle with you and when the Holy Light arrives, light your candle and spread the light to the people behind and around you, like a local!

Picture by prayitno via flickr

Food

Tsoureki

Picture by Michael Himbeault via flickr

Tip: Try pairing tsoureki with a slice of Graviera cheese or dip a slice of tsoureki in milk for breakfast. Yum!

Magiritsa

Picture by twk3 via Pixabay

If you plan to stay at the Elounda Palm Hotel & Suites taking advantage of our Easter offer you will enjoy the delicious magiritsa prepared by our Chef!

Tip: Don’t ask too many questions what is inside your Magiritsa, just enjoy it with plenty of lemon!

Lamp on the spit

Picture by George M. Groutas via flickr

Guests of the Elounda Palm this Easter will have the chance to see the lamb preparations and enjoy themselves alongside the pool until the Easter Sunday lunch feast takes over!

Kokoretsi

Picture by George M. Groutas via flickr

Tip: While kokoretsi is best enjoyed hot and fresh, leftovers are a great raki meze for the next day.

This year join us dear friends around the Easter Sunday lunch table of the Elounda Palm Hotel, your home in Crete.

Have you experienced Greek Easter in Elounda?

LAST MINUTE HOLIDAYS: SPRING IN CRETE

Wed, 27 Feb 2019 12:00:00 Z

When thinking of a Greek island what comes first in mind is the hot Greek summer, pictures of Greece’s sandy beaches, white houses with blue doors, endless sunbathing and sunset cocktails…

But what really happens if you visit Greece on a season other than summer? How is the weather in Greece in March, April and May? Is it true that Crete island is one of the best places to visit in Greece for a spring holiday? We have all the answers!

It’s true: Crete is one of the best destinations in Greece during spring time. The island is situated on the southernmost part of Greece and temperatures rise earlier compared to the rest of Europe. What’s more, spring is the most colourful time of the year, when Crete is in full bloom and beauty at its best. There are hundreds of things to do in Crete this time of the year, especially if you are lucky enough to visit during the Greek Orthodox Easter. As the days get warmer, sunnier and longer, if you visit Crete in spring you will be rewarded with the perfect weather for sightseeing, away from the crowds; there are no queues in Knossos palace and other important Greek attractions and the weather still permits you to enjoy the best beaches in Crete. Also, the flights to Crete from other European destinations are just starting (unless you prefer to have a stopover at Greece’s capital and fly from Athens to Crete). Flight rates are low and you can stay at a fraction of the price to some of the best hotels in Crete – including our very own Elounda Palm Hotel ( don’t forget to check out our current offers for the coming season! )

What to enjoy in March

Photo property of Elounda Palm Hotel

Maybe the temperature of the water is not ideal for swimming, but the weather in Crete in March is perfect for all adventurous explorers out there. The cooler days offer propitious environment for hiking on the mountains, exploring gorges and ruins, mountain biking and sightseeing.

At this time of year, you can live it like a local! Tourist season hasn’t started yet (most hotels in Elounda are closed), so you will have the chance to stay in Agios Nikolaos, interact easier with locals and discover the real Cretan lifestyle. All the overcrowded must-see spots and archaeological sites will be quiet at this time of year and ready to welcome you.

Crete in April

Picture courtesy of Maria Metochianaki

This is officially the start of the season when the hotels in Elounda open the doors to visitors, and the time of year with the best offers for cheap holidays. There’s a big range of availability in all types of accommodation in Elounda and every kind of excursion to cover your wildest expectations. Also, you will find good deals for flights and holiday packages; now is the time to book your last minute hotel room with private pool and -if lucky- find available one of our brand new private pool suites!

What makes April so important (especially this year) is the Greek Orthodox Easter, a holiday far more important than Christmas for Greeks; a big feast celebrated with big honours. Of course, the best part of Greek Easter in Crete is food! Locals are getting ready and prepare the household with easter delicacies for weeks before the grand day. Tradition and unique customs are being revived all over Crete and you will have the chance to taste at least one of the Cretan specialties we’ve hand-picked in our previous blog post here.

What to do in May

Picture courtesy of Maria Metochianaki

May, the month of flowers…! The flora and fauna in the island of Crete in May is at its peak. Cretan species of herbs and blooms overflow the fields and the mountains, spreading their tantalizing aromas. Also the region of Crete has a big variety of wildlife so nature lovers will have the rare opportunity to enjoy birdwatching and safaris in the mountains of Crete.

Now is the time to relax and unwind at Crete’s best beaches without the crowds. The weather is warm enough for diving at the turquoise waters and it’s a good chance to fuel up on your vitamin D with sunbathing. We can’t think of a better way to enjoy May other than at your Elounda Palm sharing pool suite holding a Cretan style cocktail prepared by our mixologist …

Crete in spring turns into an earthly paradise full of aromas and colours of nature. Once you visit Crete in spring and taste the authentic life of locals in Crete, you will keep coming back, every year! Time stops and everything moves peacefully under the spring sun and the cool breeze. Simplicity is the key to enjoy every moment on your spring holidays in Greece

Where to stay in Crete during your spring holiday?

Where else?! At the Elounda Palm Hotel you will be able to book your stay in our brand new private pool suites, our sharing pool suites and our beautiful sea view villa at the best rate! The first guests of every season are always special so you will enjoy the warmest welcome by our staff who -as locals- will share with you the best secrets!

What’s your favorite season to visit Elounda?

What to do in May

Picture courtesy of Maria Metochianaki

Where to stay in Crete during your spring holiday?

What’s your favorite season to visit Elounda?

THIS FOOD WILL MAKE YOU BOOK HOLIDAYS IN CRETE EVERY YEAR

Mon, 28 Jan 2019 12:00:00 Z

Dear guests, our mission today is to decipher a menu of a taverna in Crete and what a delicious mission that is! Our aim is to encourage you to order some must-try dishes and make your holidays in Crete a more authentic experience. So, whether you are ordering food from the in-room menu of your private pool villa, the restaurant of a beachside hotel in elounda, or your nearby taverna, we’ll help you do it like a true local.

Before we get into listing our favorite food from Crete, we would like to share some thoughts and data. For those that are repeat visitors to Crete island, we hope you will agree that one of the greatest things you will experience on your holidays in Crete is Cretan diet. Food is a main characteristic of the island’s tradition and so is food throughout Greece. However, Crete’s gastronomy is extraordinary, some dishes cannot be found in other parts of Greece and if you try it you will want to come back for holidays in Crete every year!

Did you know that the World Ηealth Organization characterizes Cretan diet as one of the healthiest and most sustainable diets in the world? Some 100 year old grannies that live in villages of Crete will agree! Cretans became a case study because of their health and longevity in comparison to other civilisations. Some will support that the gastronomy of Crete is considered the birthplace of the Mediterranean diet.

In Elounda Palm Hotel we honor Cretan gastronomy through our buffet and poolside restaurant but also in-room menu, for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Our breakfast buffet has a certificate of Cretan Gastronomy and includes sweet and savory Cretan dishes such as “mizithropitakia”, “kaltsounia”, Cretan omelette, goat’s milk, yoghurt, cheese and plenty of vegetables, olives, olive oil and dry barley rusk “dacos”bread. Here you will have the opportunity to start your day with authentic traditional ‘superfood’ dishes.

So without further ado, here’s a list of our top choices to try on your holidays in Elounda:

“Chorta”

Picture courtesy of Maria Metochianaki

In Greek, all the greeneries that can be boiled are called “Chorta” and they differ from season to season. “Chorta” was the main food for the old people in Cretan villages, because it was easy to collect from the mountains (no cultivation needed). They are wild plants which grow on the mountains and the only way to find them is during a good hike. All you need is a knife, a plastic bag and a good “yiayia” granny to show you the ones that are edible (because not all “Chorta” are suitable to eat nor taste the same)! You can try them boiled or cooked, “tsigariasta” in the pan or sometimes even raw. Some types of “Chorta” are: “Vlita”, “Tsimoulia”, “Stamnagathi”, “Seskoula”, “Vrouves”.

Tips

You can order “Chorta” nearly in every taverna (sometimes they are not on the menu).

If you feel adventurous, you can try collect them on your own. Don’t forget to get tips from a local though…

“Skioufichta”

Picture by DanaTentis via Pixabay

“Skioufichta” or “tsi heras” (i.e. ‘by hand’) are Crete’s version of hand-made pasta. We don’t feel that pasta needs any special introduction; it’s hard not to like pasta after all! You will find “skioufichta” in many different versions. The most traditional way to have them are boiled in bone broth and served with dry “anthotiro” cheese. You will find “Skioufichta” mainly in east Crete.

Tip:

When in the Elounda Palm hotel try Vassili’s (our chef’s) version of “skioufichta” with mushrooms and local soft cheese for lunch. Yum!

Goat Meat “Psito”,” Antikristo”, “Tsigariasto” or “Frikase”

Picture by Divily via pixabay

Let us take the opportunity to pay tribute to the very ‘misunderstood’ goat and lamb, especially for those guests who are put off by the assumption that a smelly dish will arrive on the table! Indeed, the goat is not on the every day menu of a Cretan home, but it’s a MUST on every festive occasion because of its delicious taste and skill required to create the perfect goat. So if a locally sourced, slow cooked goat is served, don’t miss the opportunity to try it, please!

Tip:

The goat comes in many forms. The most authentic recipes are:

“Tsigariasto” is slow cooked in olive oil, normally light in texture and taste.

“Antikristo” is the Cretan form of the Argentinian ‘asado’, placed in special sticks and cooked around a fire.

“Psito” is the most usual version, cooked in the oven with herbs and potatoes.

“Frikase” is the combination of goat and “Chorta”.

Cretan Cheese

Picture by AlexKlen via pixabay

Did you know that the base of the economy of Crete is agriculture? Even in today’s modern world you will find old-school shepherds on the mountains of the island of Crete, surrounded by goats! Their mission is one: to breed goats,sheep (geeps) and produce meat and milk products. People from Crete love their cheese! The most popular varieties are “Kefalotiri”, “Mizithra” , “Graviera” ,“Anthotiro” and “Xigalo”.

Tip:

You can visit the store “To Mpakaliko tou Lagou” in Agios Nikolaos and Neapoli to discover the cheeses of the area. If you have the chance to buy cheese directly from a shepherd, seize the day!

“Hochli boubouristi” aka Escargot

If you are French, you probably relate with our passion for “hochli”. Otherwise, eating snails may not sound as the most appealing choice on the menu. Still, this is one of the most authentic and traditional dishes in the cuisine of Crete, so we do encourage you to try. Trying the sauce by dipping a piece of bread in it is a good starting point. If you like the taste then you can move on to the real thing! There are versions of this Cretan dish. “Boubouristi” are snails on the pan, sizzled in wine and rosemary. Another popular recipe is escargot in the pot with “xinochondro” (Crete’s version of couscous ).

Tip:

The collection of snails is a traditional ‘hobby’ of Cretans, especially after a rainy day (after all, snails love the water). Today’s “hochli” are usually grown in snail farms, however the traditional way was to hike on the mountains and collect ‘free range’ “hochli”! We all have a picture of our parents, years back, leaving the house all excited with a torch on a rainy night going snail hunting…

Picture courtesy of theTravelPorter

“Dolmadakia” or “Kolokithoanthi”

You’ve probably heard of “dolmadakia” before. “Dolmadakia” are essentially stuffed vine leaves with rice and herbs, sometimes with rice and minced meat. What’s special about this recipe in Crete is the version of “dolmadakia” wrapped in zucchini flowers instead of vine leaves, also known as “Kolokithoanthi”. Both vine leaves and flowers are collected only a specific time of the year and it is not easy to find them on the market.That’s probably why zucchini flowers sell for GBP 1 a piece in London’s Harrods store!!!

Tip:

Try them with yoghurt and a lot of lemon.

Cretan omelette

Picture by Schnauzer via Pixabay

Omelettes are made everywhere in the world… but not the Cretan way. They are very thick, usually made with fried potatoes, “apaki” (meat) or “chorta”. Cretans like vegetables with their omelette and so will you, after trying the local version.

Tip:

It might sound odd but try the omelette with a side dip of sheep’s yoghurt.

“Gamopilafo”

“Gamopilafo” translates to Greek as ‘the wedding pilaf’; that’s because its rich filling texture and taste are the perfect treat for a special occasion. So if you’re on a honeymoon in Crete, you deserve to treat yourself with a good “gamopilafo”! The essential ingredient of a “gamopilafo”, besides the obvious pilaf rice, is goat broth. Till nowadays, the “gamipilafo” remains a staple of every Cretan wedding, so if you’re invited to a wedding in Crete, don’t skip this dish!

Tip: Enjoy it with grated “mizithra” on top!

“Kaltsounia”

Picture by Kuzcomerlin via Pixabay

Warning: once you try one you will want to eat a whole box! Those little pies, stuffed with sweet “mizithra” cheese and drizzled with cinnamon are ‘to die for’. “Kaltsounia” were usually prepared only during Greek Easter time. However, with the years (and more mizithra on the table) those darlings are served as a dessert and are a perfect combination with a sip of raki.

Tip:

Often you will find “kaltsounia” on the Elounda Palm hotel’s morning buffet- try them!

“Sfakianes Pites” or “Mizithropites”

Photo property of Elounda Palm hotel

The “kaltsounia” recipe is not the only dessert that’s made of cheese. Depending in which part of Crete you are, you will find a version of this dish which are essentially thin, fried pies filled with sour “Mizithra” cheese and served with honey. The recipe has two names, so depending whether you are on the west or east part of Crete island you will order them as “Sfakianes pites” or “Mizithropites”, respectively.

Tip:

“Mizithropites” make a perfect breakfast, snack and dessert so feel free to order them any time of the day, guilt-free!

“Dakos”

Picture by DanaTentis via Pixabay

We’ve left the most popular Cretan recipe for last, the “dacos” dried rusk served with tomato (chopped or blended), any type of white goat cheese (“feta” or “mizithra”), oregano and plenty of extra virgin olive oil. You will find many varieties of dacos rusk. Some are made of wholegrain wheat and others also include barley; this means that some “dacos” may be hard on your teeth so, before taking a bite on your own, you may want to soak the rusk in water for a few seconds! Commercial dacos is usually teeth-friendly

Tip:

If you want to do it like a local, dacos is the perfect snack, lunch or dinner when you want to keep it light or accompany your cold beer on a hot summer day by the Elounda Palm Hotel’s pool!

So there you have it dear guests.The gastronomy of Crete is a high plant based diet, with loads of fruit, vegetables and dairy products. If you ask us, we feel that the secret sauce behind the delicious flavors are the pure, good quality ingredients. Greens fresh from the gardens and the fields of Crete, extra virgin olive oil, honey, nuts, herbs all put an authentic touch to the flavors and aromas of every dish. So be adventurous and explore the Cretan gastronomy; you will be rewarded in every bite!

For guests who want to explore the gastronomy of Crete (even try make some hand-made dolmadakia) you will find here an excellent selection of tours and workshops, ready to book.

Share with us your gastronomic experience from your holidays in Crete!

What’s your favorite dish?

9 Hidden tavernas you need to try near Elounda and Agios Nikolaos

Fri, 19 Aug 2016 12:00:00 Z

Agios Nikolaos (aka ‘Agios’ or ‘Agnik’) and Elounda in Crete are famous for a few things which makes them a unique travel experience; one of them is that the area has a few of the best hotels in Crete, if not in Greece; another is the mysterious Spinalonga island, -among other interesting local attractions- which makes it at the top of most visited Greek historical sites, after the Acropolis. Still, one thing most people don’t know is the mind-blowing food you can find in this part of Crete. While most visitors enjoy their hotel’s menu, long buffets, room service and Michelin starred restaurants (which are top notch-truth be told), the area has a few gastronomic gems hidden in secluded villages that you would never find out, unless a local told you. If only Michelin inspectors knew….!
If you’ve had too much of grilled chicken and choriatiki and are curious to try authenticpaidakia, hochlious, mizithropita, meat in wooden ovens and raki, we are about to share a few of the best kept secrets in Crete (lucky you!). So, without further ado, here are a few of our favourite tavernas in villages close to Agios and Elounda which should make it to the top of your list of unique things to do in Crete (in random order, as we couldn’t decide which one’s the best!).

#1 ‘O Platanos’ – Fourni village

Fourni is one of the cutest and well preserved villages we’ve visited in Crete. It’s located about 20 minutes drive, on the mountains, from Plaka near Elounda. After lots of turns (and no lights to make this easier) you will reach magnificent Fourni situated amidst an olive grove, in a plateau. If you can make it during sunset the ride and arrival will be more rewarding. Head to ‘O Platanos‘ taverna which is in the central ‘piazza’ of the village just under a huge sycamore tree (which also makes it one of the most fun things to do with kids in the area).

What to eat: Paidakia (aka lamb chops), eggs with staka and ask for the casseroles of the day (usually rabbit and hen). The kataifi dessert is a great ending to this delicious feast.
Where to call: +30 2841090776

#2 ‘Miliaras’ – Latsida village

About 15 minutes from Agios Nikolaos and on the way to the airport (after the exit for Neapoli) you’ll find a tiny, almost invisible AND in Greek(!), sign that directs you to Latsida on your right hand side. Once you make a right and follow the road, you’ll soon reach Latsida village and your hot-spot ‘Miliaras‘ is the first taverna on your left; you’ll probably spot it because it’s usually packed with locals (and we’re not surprised, as it’s one of the best places to eat in this area!)

What to try: Souvlaki pork skewers (the best in Greece!), cheese-balls (gigantic fried cheese balls to-die-for), hochlious boubouristous (aka snails with vinegar and rosemary on the pan) , anthous (which are vine lives OR zuccini flowers stuffed with rice) paired with xygalo (soft cheese from sheep and goat’s milk) or old-school tzatziki. For those who can’t have pork, the taverna also serves heavenly paidakia lamb chops.
Where to call: +30 2841 034050

#3 ‘Stavrakakis’ – Exo Lakonia village

Enter the destination ‘Exo Lakonia’ in your Google Maps and you will reach a taverna beneath a magnificent fouchsia bougainvillea. The taverna does not have an official name, but is known by the surname of the owner (that is Mr Stavrakakis!). There you will find the usual traditional Cretan meze menu, all prepared with fresh and local ingredients. Interesting fact: Just across the street, where you least expect it, you will find one of the area’s most unusual local attractions; the Museum of Classical Vehicles!

What to try: Hortopitakia (liitle pies with herbs and wild greens), mizithropitakia (pies with soft white cheese), anthous, but also a variety of grilled meat (such as sausages and paidakia) and often casseroles.
Where to call: +30 2841022478

#4 ‘To Rakadiko Tou Kamari’ (aka ‘The Hope’) – Mavrikiano village

Only a short drive from Elounda and Plaka you will reach the village of Mavrikiano and the taverna ‘To Rakadiko Tou Kamari‘ aka ‘The Hope’! The taverna serves local delicacies with beautiful views to the bay of Mirabello; so what else can you ask for your holiday in Crete, really?!

What to eat: Go for the grilled meat!
Where to call: +30 697 229 5150

#5 & #6 ‘Christinis’ and ‘Ta Kato Kafeneia’ – Limnes village

We still remember a mouthwatering slow cooked meat with potatoes that we tried in Limnes, at ‘Christinis’ taverna a few years ago and that’s how this place made it to our list of what to do in Crete this summer. Another time, we drunk lots of raki over a ‘light’ souvlaki, omelette and traditional Cretan tapas dinner at ‘Ta Kato Kafeneia’, whose old spot used to be in the heart of this charming little mountain village, but who have now moved on the main road, almost next to ‘Christinis’. Either way you go, be prepared to nibble great meat with your raki.

What to eat: Slow cooked, wood oven meat (when available) or yummy biftekia burgers at ‘Christinis’,souvlaki and omelette at ‘Ta Kato Kafeneia’.
Where to call: ‘Christinis’: +30 2841 032269 | ‘Ta Kato Kafeneia’: +302841033323

#7 ‘O Platanos tis Kyra Lenis’ – Vrachasi, Neapoli village

Approaching the 46th kilometre of the national road from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos, the mountain village of Vrachasi hides ‘Platanos’ taverna where Kyra Leni (Mrs Eleni) serves her old time classics for the ones in the know and those who seek an authentic travel experience. Make sure to carry a jacket with you as it gets chilly up there…

What to eat: Sofregada which is a casserole of wild mixed greens and snails (aka hochlious) and other casseroles of the day.
Where to call: +30 28410 31488

#8 ‘Vilaeti’ – Agios Konstantinos village

‘Vilaeti’ is a small traditional guesthouse in the village of Agios Konstantinos in Lasithi plateau, which is a long drive from Agios Nikolaos and Elounda. However, Vilaeti is known well to locals because of its delicious meat delicacies that make the drive to Agios Konstantinos worth it for a mouthwatering meal!

What to eat: Meat roasted in a traditional wood oven and Greek style ‘asado‘ lamb called Antikristo, not to be missed!
Where to call: +30 6977248456

#9 ‘Bogazi’ – Mochlos village

If you have had enough of meat and mountains and want a seafront, fish-y alternative, then you need to visit the village of Mochlos, which -according to locals- has the best fish you can find in the area of Lasithi and is one of the best things to do in the area in the summer. As with a few other villages we’ve brought up (above), this fish village is a long ride from Agios Nikolaos and Elounda. However, if you are into adventurous tours and seek for a unique experience you can join one of our day trips in the gulf of Mirabello and reach the spot by sea with a catamaran! In this way you will admire some local attractions from the sea, you will swim in turquoise crystal waters and will seal this day with a delicious fish lunch or sunset dinner. Out of all seafront tavernas, we would pick the Bogazi.

What to eat: Fresh fish. Full stop.
Where to call: +30 284 3094200

General tips: You don’t necessarily need a reservation for these places (unless it’s high season); most of them won’t even accept one. However, it may be useful to call in advance to make sure they are open and that there’s a casserole of the day (unless you don’t mind having an omelette or souvlaki for dinner, which is still worth the ride). On a different note, if you wish to explore the area’s culinary scene in more depth we recommend you join a food tour or a cooking class; and if you stay in touch, we will soon introduce you to the most extraordinary hosts in town!

PS: Original post by theTravelporter.com