Λασίθι

Lasithi, the eastern end of Crete, is quieter and greener than you might expect. Agios Nikolaos wraps around a small lake and a lively harbour, with cafés on the water and beaches within walking distance. Just north, Elounda and Plaka look across to the fortress island of Spinalonga, one of the most moving places on the island.

Up in the mountains, the Lasithi plateau is a flat green bowl ringed by peaks, dotted with old windmills and orchards. Above the village of Psychro is the Dikteon cave, the birthplace of Zeus in myth. The villages of Kritsa and Mochlos, the Minoan town of Gournia and the gorge of Richtis are all easy day trips.

Further east, Sitia is a relaxed working town, and the palm beach of Vai, the monastery of Toplou and the bays around Kato Zakros feel far from the crowds. On the south coast, Ierapetra is often called the sunniest town in Europe, and the island of Chrissi offshore has cedar trees and white sand.

Good to know: the far east is about 2.5 hours from Heraklion, so stay a night or two to enjoy it without rushing.