Windsurfing Holiday in Crete

The Area of Palaikastro lies approximately 3 hours by car from the airport on the far North Easterly point of Crete. The drive takes you through some stunning scenery along the Northern coast line with the most dramatic views through the winding roads of Eastern Crete. The drive is rewarded by a part of Greece that is devoid of mass tourism, some would say this is the Greece of 20 year ago.

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Itinerary / Highlights

Our lasting impression of Crete was the incredible kindness and friendliness of the locals and the unspoiled natural feel of the resort. This is an ideal location for a relaxing windsurfing holidays for a mixture of windsurfing and relaxation .

KOUREMENOS BAY

The beach here is mostly sandy with a few small pebbles dotted around, there is no need for booties here. The water is super flat but a small wind shadow directly off the beach is good for non-windsurfing spectators! The secluded bay offers a huge space which is frequented exclusively by windsufers.

Around Palaikastro, the ‘Meltemi' increases its power through the local thermal and a funneling effect that gives the ground wind an additional 2 Beaufort. This makes Kouremenos Bay one of the most wind-certain spots in the whole of Europe. This is also why the largest wind farms in Greece are in the surrounding area of Palaikastro.

The wind blows side shore from the left and achieves a wind force between 4 and 7 Beaufort. During the summer season, the average wind force is approximately 6 Beaufort. Most used sail size: 4.5 & 5.3

The Bay offers perfect flat-water conditions near the shore, with great bump and jump conditions further out . This location is perfect for slalom and freestylers alike, and great for the progressive intermediates cracking their first gybes or chop hops.

We feel that Crete is an ideal location for intermediate to advanced sailors that like to blast on the very flat water and strong wind conditions. Beginners are also catered for but this is a strong wind spot so learning time can be limited.

On the odd occasion that there is no wind there are many other things to do and see to keep you entertained. These mostly take the shape of walks, visits to the many archaeological sites and a number of other cultural tourist attractions.

There is no Kitesurfing in this area, this is a pure windsurf location.

THE NIGHTLIFE

During the summer real life starts in the evening and takes place in the village square by the church, which is surrounded with local cafes, bars and restaurants. While the children play football, the adults enjoy a traditional meal in the Greek taverns and the youth are having fun in the neighbouring bars, until the early hours.

True party freaks should visit, Sitia, which lies 20 km from Palaikastro. Sitias Harbour is full of energy, packed with bars and cafes and the nightlife continues till the early hours of the morning in a number of discos.

Other Details

Accommodation Details

Situated on the hillside on the outskirts of the small traditional village of Agathias, enjoying panoramic views over the silvergreen olive groves and the golden shores of Kouremenos windsurfing bay . The complex consists of 6 for 2-3 persons; bed/living room with 2 single beds and one built-in sofa bed, kitchenette, WC/bath, balcony and/or terrace, air conditioning and telephone. All studios are of a high standard, and are decorated in a tasteful, classic style, in soft colours and have a view of the sea, except one that faces the hillside. There is a communal covered terrace and barbecue at the disposal of the guests who do not wish to leave the site, but wish to relax enjoying the peace and quiet of the surroundings.

For those wishing to taste the traditional Cretan cuisine there is a choice between a short drive down to the small fish tavernas of Chiona beach and Kouremenos beach, but also within walking distance the small traditional tavernas in the village of Agathias. Alternatively all necessary shops, restaurants, cafés, mini markets, plus nightlife facilities are to be found in Palekastro village.

Departure Dates, Options & Prices

All holidays are bespoke and can leave on any date (subject to availability). The price quoted above will vary dependent on departure date, hotel & selected course.

+ 44 (0) 870 749 1959