Eastern Crete

Istron is well removed from the touristic honeypots nearer the airport. Halfway around the splendidly scenic Gulf of Mirabello on the north-east coast, here Crete’s perennial charms - magnificent mountains, traditional inland villages and a sparkling open sea - are to the fore.

At the excellent 5 star Istron Bay Hotel you can either stay put and completely relax or undertake a thorough exploration of this end of the island, because within a 90 minute drive there is almost too much to see and do.

Go east, high above the sea to the small market town of Sitia; west to Heraklion, Knossos Palace and the museum; south for a different mood and miles of beach; inland to the high plateau of Lassithi; or simply discover a minoan site or Byzantine chapel. For a change take a boat trip to fortified Spinalonga island, or hit the bright lights of Aghios Nikolaos 13 kms away.