About Rethymno
Rethymnon is the capital of the prefecture of the same name. It lies between the other two large towns - Heraklion to the east (at a distance of 80 kms.) and Chania to the west (at a distance of 60 kms).
Rethymno City
Rethymnon is a blend of modern and old-time dignity and charm. It has a population of about 20,000 inhabitants and is the administrative and commercial center of the prefecture, as well as a communications center. It is well provided with travelers facilities and prides itself on its cultural activity and its significant presence in the general cultural life of the island, much of which is centred around the Faculty of Letters of the University of Crete, established here. A large number of exceptional characteristics distinguish the Prefecture of Rethymno from the other Greek prefectures like for example Mount Psiloritis, the abutting deep blue sea, and of course the remains of 3500 years of civilization, which include numerous Byzantine churches and monasteries, magnificent Venetian monuments, the best preserved Renaissance city of Greece and the superb natural beauties. The prefecture boasts contrasting scenery, where harsh mountainous areas alternate with fertile valleys, and an imposing rocky coastline is interrupted by far-stretching, sandy beaches. Each part reveals its own, particular beauty - imposing gorges, numerous caves, lush valleys and small rivers. However, it is the mountains, which dominate in the morphology of the landscape. First to mention Mount Psiloritis, followed by the mountain range of Kedros, Mount Kouloukounas and the Talaia mountain range. The natural diversities of Rethymno, its rich flora and fauna offer many different ways to approach nature. One can choose either to just walk or pass through gorges, or to make a more difficult attempt in experienced mountain climbing and following mountainous routes. It is paradise for aficionados of nature, walking, biking and climbing. Rethymno and its villages are living postcards, where the flavors of the Cretan cuisine waft and the Cretan lyre is heard. Here people have made nature and sentiment their allies, the codes of large cities do not touch them. Wherever you go, even in the remotest village you will be given a heartfelt welcome, they will offer you a glass of raki and become your friends. This is because Rethymno is the home of Zeus, the god of hospitality. “It is not a place to which you go, but to which you will return”, words, which thousands of visitors who return to Rethymno confirm. We suggest you visit and discover Rethymno, an alternative to ordinary holidays
