Family Adventure in Crete: A 15-Day Cultural Exploration

Crete's Living Heritage

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the heart of Crete, experiencing traditions that have been passed down through generations. It's amazing how much history and culture can be packed into a single day, and I'm excited to share our journey with you all. From open-air museums to golden honey farms, Crete continues to surprise and enchant us at every turn.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Ta Kalitera. It was a beautiful morning, and the restaurant was buzzing with locals and tourists alike. I opted for some fresh fruit and yogurt, while Hans enjoyed a traditional Cretan breakfast with olives and cheese. Sofia, of course, had her usual pastry, a sweet start to what promised to be a day full of discovery.

After breakfast, we set off to explore the Lychnostatis Open Air Museum. Situated near Hersonissos, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Cretan folk tradition, culture, and environmental heritage. As a librarian specializing in historical archives, I was particularly excited to see how the museum brought history to life.


Uncover the cultural treasures of Crete at the Lychnostatis Open Air Museum, where history meets nature in a serene setting.
The museum is a collection of buildings and outdoor spaces showcasing various aspects of Cretan life. We wandered through old wine and olive presses, explored a small windmill, and admired the herb and fruit gardens. Sofia was particularly fascinated by the shepherd's shelter, peppering us with questions about how shepherds lived in the olden days. It was a wonderful way to connect with the island's past and appreciate the ingenuity of its people.

The Lychnostatis Open Air Museum is a testament to the enduring spirit of Crete, a place where the past is not just remembered, but lived and breathed.

I was impressed by the attention to detail in each exhibit. The museum truly captures the essence of Cretan folk tradition, offering a comprehensive look into the region's history and way of life. We even had the chance to see a gallery of work by Cretan artists, which added another layer of appreciation to our visit.

After spending a few hours at the museum, we decided to head to Kokkiadis Honey Farm, which promised a sweet experience, literally! Located a short drive from Heraklion, this family-owned farm offers a unique opportunity to learn about beekeeping and honey production. And as someone who loves to cook, I was intrigued by the prospect of learning more about this natural sweetener.


Experience the magic of beekeeping at Kokkiadis Honey Farm, where nature's sweetest treasures await in the heart of Greece.
Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted by the owners, who shared their passion for bees and honey-making. We took a guided tour of the farm, where we learned about the different types of bees, the process of honey extraction, and the importance of sustainable beekeeping practices. Sofia was absolutely captivated by the bees, and she even got to wear a beekeeping suit and help collect honeycombs!

Of course, the highlight of our visit was the honey tasting. We sampled a variety of honeys, each with its own unique flavor profile. From thyme honey to flower honey, the tastes were as diverse as the Cretan landscape itself. We also got to try some homemade marmalade and sweet spoon Rakomelo liqueur, all made with honey from the farm. It was a truly delightful experience, and we left with a jar of our favorite honey to take back home.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Chania for dinner. We had heard great things about TAMAM RESTAURANT CHANIA, and we were eager to try it out. Located in the heart of Chania, this restaurant is known for its traditional Greek cuisine and cozy atmosphere. And the fact that is was rated 4.5 within the Google grading system made us even more excited.


Experience authentic Cretan cuisine at Tamam Restaurant in Chania's enchanting Old Harbour – where every dish tells a story.
The restaurant was bustling with activity when we arrived, but we were quickly seated at a table in the charming courtyard. The menu featured a wide variety of Greek dishes, from cheese pies and greek salads to moussaka. Hans and I decided to share a few mezzes, while Sofia opted for a simple pasta dish.

The food was absolutely delicious, and the portions were generous. The flavors were authentic and the ingredients were fresh. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploring Crete. The service was also top-notch, with the staff being friendly and attentive. It's easy to see why this place is so highly rated.

After dinner, we decided to take a stroll through the streets of Chania. The city was alive with music and laughter, and we couldn't resist stopping at a local bar called Juniper bar for a nightcap. The bar had a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and the bartender mixed us some delicious cocktails. It was the perfect way to end our evening.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Juniper Bar in Sisi, a premier sports bar offering great drinks and live sports in a lively coastal setting.
As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. Crete is a truly special place, with a rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, as we plan to visit Matala beach and the Minoan Palace of Phaistos.

Tomorrow promises a change of pace as we head south to Matala, famed for its caves and laid-back vibe, and then delve further into Crete’s ancient past at the Minoan Palace of Phaistos. Before that, we will have breakfast at Arismari & Varsamo, and then lunch at Marilena Restaurant. In the evening we will have dinner at Thigaterra - The Art of Slow Food. I’m particularly excited about exploring Phaistos, as the Minoan civilization has always fascinated me.

And of course, I must not forget to mention those travel essentials we forgot to pack – the portable charger and reusable water bottles. It seems we're constantly running out of battery and buying new plastic bottles. Lesson learned: always double-check the packing list!

Good night from Crete!