The largest of the Greek islands, Crete is home to rugged landscapes, sun-drenched beaches, quiet villages and epic mountain ranges. Hire a car on your villa holiday and get ready to explore it all. Trek across Europe’s longest gorge, take a leisurely stroll along a white-sand beach, or walk up to the cave where Zeus was supposedly born. Crete has a rich culture and history that links back to the Minoans, who were the first advanced civilisation of Europe, dating back 4000 years. Visit its Turkish bath houses, the Palace of Knossos, and the many Byzantine monasteries in the hills to get a feel for what ancient life was like on this stunning island.