RETHYMNON

   The picturesque town of Rethymnon is located on the north coast and lies approximately halfway between the towns Chania and is capital of the province of the same name.

   Rethymnon has two harbours, one for ferry connections with the mainland of Greece and the scenic Venetian fishing port fringed by the terraces of the local tavernas.

   The Venetian Fortress "Fortezza" dominates the mediaeval old town of Rethymnon. The minarets and Turkish houses, with their covered wooden balconies, give an oriental flair, which contrast with the renaissance feature of the Venetian buildings in the narrow streets of the old quarter. This oriental flavour of the town brings to life the ever-changing history since ancient times.

   The area around Rethymnon is ideal for swimming and water sports; it has a magnificent and long sandy beach, stretching 16 km from the port towards the east, broken into small shingle coves here and there along the way.

   Because of its central position, Rethymnon is an excellent place to begin excursions by car or for those who love walking, the countryside and mountains surrounding Rethymnon are something of a paradise.

   One can also make a boat trip from Rethymnon along the coast to Chania, or take a one-day cruise to the volcanic island of Santorini.