Once the Greco-Roman town of Rithymna this site was also frequently occupied by the Minoans. During the 16th century Venetian occupation the town prospered and many elegant buildings were erected including the impressive Fortetsa which acted as defence from marauding pirates.
The charming harbour front is flanked with outdoor cafes and a restored 13th century lighthouse stands on its breakwater. Looming above the inner harbour is the fortetsa designed by Pallavicini for defence against the likes of Barabarossa who sacked the town in 1538. Within the mainly intact ramparts lie a mosque, church and governors’ house and during the summer open-air concerts are hosted here.
As well as the beautiful sandy beach located in front of the town Rethymnon boasts the longest sandy beach on the island (12 kilometres in length) on its west side.
The Amari valley is overlooked by the peaks of mount Idi. Twisting roads link the small agricultural communities of the Amari, who’s menfolk still sport traditional knee-high boots and baggy trousers known as vrakes to compliment their magnificent moustaches. Monasteries and churches in the villages of Thronos, Moni Asomaton, Amari and Vizari house ancient frescoes and icons. And in this area of renowned wartime resistance Gerakari is famous for its fresh and bottled cherries and cherry brandy.
Mount Idi is the highest mountain in the island, at 2,456 metres it dominates the Psiloretis range. It is renowned in Greek legend as the place the god Zeus was supposedly reared in the Idaian Cave which can be accessed on foot, though it’s something of a hike.
There are numerous other walks and excursions which can be undertaken from Rethymno to monasteries and traditional villages such as the remote and charming Loutro and at nearby lake Kournas there are pedaloes, windsufers and canoes for hire. Boat trips offer visits to the island of Gavados and the stunning bay of Sweetwater beach.