Sissi holidays

Sissi may not have tons of choices when it comes to eating out, but there are still plenty of places where you can try those Greek classics. From skewers of grilled meat to the country staple moussaka or battered cheese alongside the cinnamon topped and syrup dipped dessert loukoumades – it will be hard to control your cravings. Head to Taverna Amelia for a traditional dining experience. Meat lovers can’t go wrong with the moussaka and lamb chops, while the pasta salad options will go down a treat with vegetarians, not to mention the free Raki. Make sure you time you visit with one of the Greek nights, the atmosphere is electric with plate smashing, dancing and singing seeing everyone clapping along. For something completely different, nothing beats sittings at Liofito. With tables positioned underneath the olive trees on a farm-like setting, the quality of ingredients is exceptional, and don’t be surprised if you see chickens wandering past your table. Away from the main drag, it’s worth locating. There are plenty of places to grab pre-dinner drinks too, even if it means sitting in one of the waterside tavernas.

The coves surrounding Sissi all live up to its serene reputation with days by the water proving a low-key affair. The coastline here is rocky so don’t expect wide expanses of sand. The town’s main shoreline is small with only a few amenities to choose from, however its waters are protected by its harbour location, so swimming here comes highly recommended. If you carry on walking east, you’ll come to a good-sized stretch known as Kalimera whose blanket of sand has been well-organised by the hotel which backs it. It’s far-stretching shallows are perfect for mini paddlers too.

This old-school resort is celebrated for its rural character with its farmland surroundings and easy-going harbourside where fishing boats sit bobbing in its waters. Despite there not being a great deal happening in the resort itself, you’re close to some of Crete’s hottest resorts and attractions.

Hit the Malia Strip: Extending for 1,500 metres, you’re certainly not short of nightlife with the late-night charms of Malia on your doorstep. That’s right, you could be in Crete’s clubbing capital in a short 15-minute car journey where you’ll find everything from lively lounge bars serving cocktails, British style pubs offering a taste of home and big clubs hosting must-attend events. As soon as the sun goes down, this resort comes alive with drink promoters promising free drinks and 24-hour venues encouraging the most hard-core partiers to dance into the wee hours of the morning.

Hike to Milatos Cave: Just a few kilometres east of Sissi, this historical site can be accessed via a footpath where views of the surrounding bay will capture your attention. Once you reach the cave, a flashlight is necessary as it is extremely dark inside. Best known for its tragic history, after it was used as a hiding place for locals rebels, things took a turn for the west when the Turkish invaded in 1823 which saw many perish. As a result of its cruel past, a small church was built in 1935 alongside a memorial where you can remember those who sadly lost their lives. You’ll also come across archaeological findings dating back to the Neolithic period – a real highlight for any history buff.