Family Adventure in Crete: A 15-Day Cultural Exploration

Homeward Bound, But Not Before One Last Adventure!

As our Cretan adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared as a family. Today was a perfect encapsulation of what makes Crete so special: a blend of history, culture, and of course, the mouthwatering cuisine that has become a highlight of our trip. It's bittersweet knowing that tomorrow we head back to Bonn, but I'm determined to soak up every last bit of this beautiful island before we go.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Myrtios Traditional Taverna in Old Hersonissos. The warm, family-friendly atmosphere was immediately inviting. I remember back in Teruel, Spain, my grandmother always emphasized the importance of starting the day with a good meal, and Myrtios certainly delivered. We sat under the shade of the arbor, enjoying the tranquility and peace that the taverna offered. Sofia was particularly taken with the stone architecture, reminiscent of old mansions. Hans and I savored every bite of the traditional Cretan breakfast, made with fresh, local ingredients. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Myrtios Traditional Taverna in Old Hersonissos – where every meal tells a story.

After breakfast, we drove to Melidoni Cave, also known as Gerondospilios. The cave is located a short distance from the village. This place is steeped in both history and mythology. As a librarian specializing in historical archives, I was particularly drawn to the story of the 370 villagers, mostly women and children, who sought refuge here in 1823 during the Ottoman occupation. The tragedy that unfolded, where they were suffocated by Ottoman forces, is a somber reminder of Crete's turbulent past. Walking through the cave's chambers, I felt a profound connection to those who had sought shelter within its walls. Sofia was fascinated by the stalactites and stalagmites, asking endless questions about how they formed over thousands of years. The cave also has archaeological significance, with findings suggesting it was used for religious ceremonies during the Minoan period, dedicated to Talos, the bronze giant guardian of Crete. I could almost picture Talos, the bronze robot of Greek mythology, guarding the island. The blend of history and mythology made it an unforgettable experience.


Discover the stunning Melidoni Cave, a historical landmark in Crete that combines breathtaking natural beauty with rich cultural significance.

History is not the past but a map of the past, drawn from a particular point of view.

Our next stop was Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village, a living museum showcasing Cretan culture from the early 20th century. It felt like stepping back in time as we wandered through the stone-made houses and narrow streets. Sofia loved the folklore museum, marveling at the old artifacts and learning about traditional Cretan life. We explored the workshops, where artisans demonstrated their crafts, and browsed the markets filled with local products. It was a fantastic way to immerse ourselves in the island's heritage. I even considered participating in a Cretan cuisine workshop, but we were already running short on time. The village offered interactive workshops related to nutrition and arts, such as Cretan cuisine workshops, dancing lessons, and mosaic art.


Explore the enchanting Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village, a cultural gem near Heraklion, where rich traditions and authentic experiences await every traveler.

For lunch, we indulged in a memorable meal at Pelagos Sea Side Restaurant. The restaurant’s location by the sea was stunning, and the dishes were beautifully presented. Hans ordered the shrimp pasta, while I opted for the Cretan lamb kleftiko. Sofia, ever adventurous, tried the beef cheeks and onion stew. Each dish was a culinary masterpiece, blending traditional flavors with gourmet techniques. The attentive service and relaxing atmosphere made it a perfect dining experience. It was a bit of a splurge, but well worth it for a special last-day treat. The creative cuisine and high-quality ingredients made it a standout meal.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine with stunning sea views at Pelagos Sea Side Restaurant in Ag. Ioannis.

Before heading back to our Airbnb, we made a quick stop at Cretan Tradition Hersonissos. I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs to remind us of our trip. The store offered a wide array of local products, from olive oil and honey to herbs and spices. I chose a few small bottles of olive oil and some traditional Cretan sweets to take back to Bonn. It was a perfect way to bring a little piece of Crete back home with us. As someone who loves to cook, I was excited to try incorporating these flavors into my German-Spanish fusion dishes.


Explore the rich culture of Crete at Cretan Tradition Hersonissos, where local crafts and flavors come alive in a delightful shopping experience.

As the sun sets on our final day in Crete, I'm filled with gratitude for the memories we've created. From exploring ancient caves to savoring delicious cuisine, this trip has been an incredible experience for our family. While I'm looking forward to returning to my cozy library in Bonn, a part of me will always remain in this beautiful island. Crete, with its rich history and warm hospitality, has captured our hearts.

Tomorrow, we embark on our journey back to Germany. I'm already planning our next adventure, inspired by the many wonders we've discovered here. Until then, farewell, Crete! Thank you for the memories.