Climate and Weather

The climate in Crete is typically Mediterranean. There are two main seasons: A dry, hot summer and a damp, rainy winter The Summer lasts for 6 months and winter for only 2 months . The rest 4 months are divided between spring and fall. The pleasant climate of Crete provides ample sunshine more than 3000 hours per year.

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Greece has a wide range of climate types, ranging from the semi-arid, semi-desert climate of south-eastern Crete to the cold, humid continental climate of Rhodope.

Surprisingly, the climate and weather can vary a lot in Crete, due to the presence of some considerable mountain ranges creating weather barriers. High up it is cool in the summer, and can be a bit harsh in winter, with snow capping the highest peaks well into the spring. Autumn is milder than Spring all over Crete, and the sea temperature reaches its peak at this time.

The Cretan climate was renowned in antiquity as the healthiest and mildest in Europe. Hippocrates, who laid the foundations of medicine, recommended the island for patients who were recuperating.

Unlike many Greek islands, there is no shortage of water in Crete as the winter snows on the high peaks replenish the aquifers in the porous limestone. Although most rivers dry up in summer, many villages boast their own springs - the place-name Pigi means "spring" or "source".

The copious supply of fresh water, as much as the generally pleasant climate, must have been significant factors in the establishment of the Minoan civilisation. Today, Crete continues to be one of the most important agricultural areas in Greece, providing half the country's olive oil, most of its sultanas and a lot of other produce.

In very hot weather, even the Crete people seem to suffer, and holiday makers can have some problems. Holidays can sometimes be spoilt by sunstroke or sunburn. It’s a good idea to make sure you follow some simple guidelines to avoid problems:

Drink plenty of water! Even if you don’t feel thirsty. Use a high factor sun cream, even if it looks a bit hazy, and wear a hat. Children especially should be covered up with long sleeves and hats, and sun block on exposed skin. Stay by the pool, or the sea – or take a nap at the height of the afternoon summer sun. Don’t do anything too strenuous around the noon day heat. Finally – drink plenty of water! Dehydration is one of the main reasons for problems experienced in the heat of the Mediterranean sun, especially for those of us from the north of Europe who aren’t use to it.