The coastal drive from Heraklion to Hania (also spelled Chania) along the northern coast of Crete was really beautiful. The sea and the villages along the coast are scenic and interesting, and would be fun to explore were we driving ourselves and had plenty of time. But this trip was part of the tour and we made the trip in a large motor coach. While you sit high in a motor coach and can see well, photos are not very good out the coach windows. I attempted some but have thrown away most. The ones that were decent will be in the album of Hania photos I will upload later. Below is the view approaching Hania.
Once in Hania we strolled though the market before making our way to the harbor for lunch. The color of the sea all around these islands is a spectacular deep, clear blue that is hard to describe but is distinctive and beautiful. When we walked out into the harbor area, we were all stunned at how beautiful the harbor appeared, both the color of the water and the cafés and shops all around the perimeter. Everyone was snapping photos and trying to take it all in. Finally we got settled into our tables at a cafe where lunch had been pre-arranged, and we sat there enjoying lunch and the beautiful harbor. Below is a photo of the market and a couple from the harbor.
The Venetians occupied Greece during part of Greece's history, and part of Hania's architecture is very similar to Venice. Likewise, the Turks also occupied Greece for some periods of time and there are Turkish influences remaining in Hania as well. Our guide walked us throug some areas where we could see both. Below is an example of the Venetian influence in Hania.
On the return trip to Heraklion we stopped by a small village that was the birthplace of El Greco, where there is a small monument to him. The old women in this village also do macrame and they were selling their goods in the street. Linda found a good deal on a purse and had to make a purchase. There is also an oak tree there that the guide said was over 1000 years old. Hard to know if that is true or not, but it was a hallowed out, strange looking tree and we all had a picture taken in it.
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