Hi:

We'll be in Crete in four weeks, with a car. We're staying outside of Chania. Could anyone recommend some 'not to miss' villages to visit? Thanx

Spili is a charming village south of Rethymnon--cobbled streets, views of mountains, a town square with a fountain.

My family and I went to crete three years ago. We rented a car in Athens and caught a ferry to Crete. We stayed in Rethymnon and visited Spili. It was right at the beginning of Greek Orthodox Lent. Great time there. A walk along the seaside in Rethymnon with the open door restaurants and fresh seafood was great and Spili is a must see.

Matala, on the South Coast.

This is so exciting! We will be in Iraklion for 2 days--will we have a village nearby that we shouldn't miss? Thanks.

Vámos, half way between Rethymnon and Hania. It is sort of heritage village, where people have restaured the old stone houses. The villagers arrange cooking courses and show how to collect horta (wild vegetables). The village restaurant serves best possible Cretan food.