South Crete is one of the last regions of the Mediterranean where traditional village life, wild landscapes, and quiet beaches still shape the rhythm of everyday life.
Unlike the busier northern coast of Crete, the southern side of the island faces the Libyan Sea and offers a different kind of holiday — slower, more authentic, and deeply connected to nature.
If you’re planning a trip, our STAYS Journal helps you discover where to stay in South Crete, what you should know before embarking on your villa holidays and which region of Crete is best for your travel style. Once you are ready to book, explore our collection of vacation homes in South Crete.
Through the STAYS Journal, we share our local knowledge about South Crete, the region we call home: its beaches, villages, hiking trails, food, culture, traditions, and hidden corners.
Below is a curated selection of guides from the STAYS Journal. Use the search option or browse through all articles below. And be sure to check back: we add new stories frequently.
The STAYS Guide to South Crete: Beaches, Villages & Travel Tips
Plan Your Trip to Crete
• Where to Stay in South Crete
• Best Beaches in South Crete
• Romantic Things to Do
• Is South Crete Windy?
• A Week in South Crete
Discover Local Culture
• Raki in Crete
• Cretan Wine Revival
• Local Customs in Crete
• Festivals in Crete
• Carnival in Rethymno
Safety & Travel Advice
• Is South Crete Safe?
• Solo Travel in Crete
• Is Crete Safe during the Iran War?
• Swimming in Crete
• Safe Hiking in South Crete
Looking for a specific topic, search for the keyword:
The E4 Hiking Trail in Crete: Europe’s Long-Distance Path Across the Island
The E4 is marked throughout Crete using yellow and black signs or painted symbols on rocks and trees.
However, markings can sometimes be faded or inconsistent.
For this reason, most hikers now rely on:
Best Restaurants in South Crete and Rethymno: A Curated Local Guide
Looking for the best restaurants in South Crete? Discover a curated selection of authentic tavernas, seaside seafood spots, village gems and refined dining in Rethymno, Chania and Heraklion. From cliffside views over the Bay of Messara to lively Old Town evenings, explore where to eat in Crete with trusted local insight.
Romantic Things to Do in South Crete: A Guide for Couples
Looking for romantic things to do in South Crete? Discover sunset sailing to Loutro, stargazing under crystal-clear skies, horseback rides through olive groves and quiet seaside evenings. A guide to intimate experiences for couples seeking privacy, authenticity and unforgettable moments by the Libyan Sea.
The Best Beaches in South Crete: A Local Guide for Every Travel Style
From iconic palm-lined Preveli to quiet local favourites like Agios Giorgos, South Crete offers beaches for every travel style. Discover which beaches are best for space, scenery, swimming, or atmosphere — and learn where to go (and when) to avoid crowds while enjoying some of Crete’s most beautiful coastline.
A Week in South Crete: A Tailor-Made Holiday Designed Around You
A holiday in South Crete is best experienced on your own terms. Stay in a private villa managed by The Grove Crete and enjoy tailor-made experiences including mountaineering, cultural workshops, private dining, sailing, and slow days by the pool. Every stay is carefully curated to match your pace, interests, and idea of the perfect escape.
When to Book a Villa in South Crete: Seasonal Trends & Insider Tips
Booking a villa in South Crete is about more than choosing dates. Seasonal trends, limited availability, and travel timing all play a role. Discover when to book, which months are most in demand, and how to secure the right villa for your travel style—whether you’re planning a summer holiday, a shoulder-season escape, or a private celebration.