ABOUT CRETE

The largest (approximately 260 kms long by 60 kms wide) and most southerly of the Greek islands, Crete lies at the very heart of a crossroads straddling Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The sun shines for more than 300 days per year and its rich scenic variety provides us with majestic mountains, wondrous gorges and fertile plains, which offer up an abundance of fruits and vegetables, amongst these being olives from the thirty million olive trees which grow on the island. There are the magnificent beaches from vast swathes of sand to the smaller coves and bays, some of which are only accessible by boat or foot. Cretan life offers a vast choice for the traveller, tourist and inhabitant of this incredible island. Whether you wish to worship the sun, walk in the mountains, visit some of the villages where time has stood still and the old customs and traditions are still adhered to, paint breathtaking landscapes, marvel at the wildlife or explore the ruins of bygone civilisations such as Venetian castles, Byzantine churches and Minoan palaces, Crete has something for everyone. In addition we musn't forget the people and their famous hospitality which stand out and ensure that the vast majority of travellers to this very special corner of the Mediterranean return year after year.

The air and seas of Crete are pollution free as the island has no heavy industry and mainly exists on a flourishing agricultural economy and a thriving tourist industry. The cost of living on the island is estimated to be between 25-35% lower than many parts of Europe, is virtually crime free, and, unlike many smaller islands, access to the rest of Europe is easy even during the winter months. This, along with all the benefits brought by a warmer climate and a less stressed lifestyle make this the ideal place to retire to or to purchase your second or holiday home.

ABOUT MAKRI GIALOS

People tend to visit Makri Gialos for its wonderful scenery, the combination of a stunning backdrop of dramatic mountains and pine forests, the warmth of its people and the choice of beaches ranging from the village's long sandy stretch with its shallow water and 'Blue Flag' status which is ideal for small children, to the smaller, quieter bays. The small harbour, with its authentic range of tavernas and bars, is one of the most popular meeting places for locals and tourists alike, providing fresh fish caught daily. It is a resort, for the most part, for couples and families during the spring and summer months, and even when the last tourist has departed, several bars, tavernas and shops remain open, unlike most other coastal resorts. Makri Gialos offers a different rhythm with a slower tempo to the city life you may be used to, and even outside the tourist season the area still retains its friendly relaxed atmosphere.

Makri Gialos lies half-way between the towns of Sitia to the east, about a 35 minute drive away, and Ierapetra, about a 25 minute drive to the west along the south coast. Both towns provide an excellent range of shops, restaurants and cinemas and both have major hospitals. An abundance of fruits and vegetables are grown in the region, plus organically produced award winning olive oil, honey and local wine. It is only a short drive to several mountain villages where one steps back in time, the closest being Aghios Stephanos and Pefki, and from where it is possible to walk down an easily accessible gorge and marvel at the stunning scenery.

The climate in Crete offers long hot dry summers and short winters with even December seeing many sunny days, and the average yearly temperature on Crete is the highest in Greece. Due to the protection offered by the mountains, Makri Gialos has its own micro-climate, providing abundant sunshine at times when other parts of the island are experiencing cooler or cloudier weather.

Makri Gialos is currently serviced by Heraklion airport, some 2 hours drive away, however the airport at Sitia, previously only able to receive domestic flights, has been recently extended at a cost of 6.5 billion drachmas, and will be able to cater for international charter flights. This will make the South East much more accessible, and along with other improvements to the areas' infrastructure, will open up this part of Crete to more tourism. It is therefore felt that Makri Gialos and surrounding areas are a good investment for the future. Consequently, if you are considering purchasing in this area it would be advisable to do so sooner rather than later as prices are expected to increase.