Cretan Villages

Here we can talk about Cretan Villages and share our stories. Do you have a story about your village? Tell us about it on the Contact Us page.

We firmly believe that healthy village life is what we are all yearning for in this urbanised 21st century. Even whilst living and travelling elsewhere, to have your own village, a safe haven of love, support and familiarity is a nourishing thing. A village is an extended family.

Villages in Crete are currently suffering. A similar trend is noted across much of Europe. Young people left the villages from the 50s onwards, leaving only the elderly population. As urbanisation leads to sprawling concrete towns and cities, it leaves crumbling, hollow villages.

The EU has recognised this and offers funding programs to restore the historic and cultural life of many villages. Eco-tourism and agri-tourism are gaining in popularity and, when done right, contribute to village life.

Around the world too, there is an ever expanding network of ecovillages. The global eco-village network has shown that sustainable communities can be created afresh.

It is these inland villages, untouched by mass tourism, that are the essence of Crete. Travellers and visitors are always welcome. Hospitality is ingrained in the Cretan way of life and must be respected and understood.

Village by Village

Kerásia is a small modern village set in the rolling foothills of Psiloritis in Iraklion nomos, surrounded by grapevines, olive trees and perivólia.

Dafnés is 18 km south of Iraklion town and home to a vibrant wine industry.

Fódele , the birthplace of El Greco, is in a lush valley full of mandarins and oranges. The village huddles over the rushing stream amongst shady trees.

Agia Pelagia is a loveable beach village 20 km west of Iraklion town, surrounded by sparkling turquoise bays.

Mátala is an interesting beach village on the south coast of the island with a colourful history and unusual rock formations.

Eloúnda sitting on a bay 11kms from Agios Nikolaos in Lasithi, is one of the most luxurious villages in Crete.

Palékastro near Vai beach in the west of the island, is a lovely Cretan village.

Tell us all about your Cretan village.

Share it with everyone on We Love Crete.com

Let us know if you have photos you want to contribute too, and we will be in touch with you.. contact us on the safe form below...