Azure Mare Hotel - Hersonissos
Book Now

Greece, a national treasure.

27.3% of Greeces’ land is declared as Natura area. Understanding the importance of biodiversity and the impact it has on our communities we would like to share with you some fascinating facts about our island.

Crete, the biggest island of Greece, and one of the most special and most important habitats. Crete is dominated by harsh mountains rising out of the sea, has several gorges, six rivers, springs, several natural harbors, and one natural freshwater lake (lake Kournas).

Crete’s climate is subtropical, which allows hundreds of migratory bird species to visit. Small wild animals and endemic species of wild plants are plentiful. 

There are 1893 documented plant species of which 159 are endemic to the island. Plus, 10% of cretan plants are considered  threatened and need protection.

Crete is hosting an incredible variety of ecosystems, some of which (53) are declared as Natura habitats.

We highly recommend paying a visit to as many as you can. Pick and choose:

Destination

1. Kournas Lake

You will find lake Kournas among the hills of Georgioupolis. As we have mentioned above, lake Kournas is the only freshwater lake in Crete and the breeding home of turtles, geese and ducks.

Destination

2. Akrotiri

Located North west of Crete, the greater area of Akrotiri, an area of 556.41 ha, is considered one the most important biotopes of Crete. It is ideal for hiking, swimming, and exploring traditional villages.

Destination

3. Agios Pavlos

Hard to aproach, Agios Pavlos, is located south of Crete, near Loutro, and will take your breath away. The beach is surrounded by a pine forest, so wherever you choose to look you will be amazed. Do not forget to enter the small old Byzantine church built on the beach during the 10th century.

Discount for our Customers

Have you booked with us already?

Destination

4. Vai

Vai beach is at the northeastern tip of the island. A well protected mediterranean area declared a national park. Palm trees (the largest palm tree forest in Crete), golden sand, crystal-clear waters, can you think of anything better?

Destination

5. Preveli

Preveli in Rethymno regional unit, is a place of unique beauty and important significance. While there, you may visit the Monastery of Preveli, founded in the Middle Ages. Preveli beach is inhabited by native palm trees, and it is located below the monastery, at the mouth of gorge Kourtaliotiko, where rare fauna species live.

We are extremely proud of our natural inheritance and we are trying our very best as a community and individually to protect and preserve it. Your contribution to our efforts means more than you can imagine! We encourage you to explore, protect and let our unique island amaze you!

Our Partners