On this excursion from Chania to Lake Kournas and Rethymno City, we drive along the northern coast of Crete heading east, enjoying the beauty of the Cretan Sea, until we reach the wonderful Lake of Kournas, the only natural freshwater lake in Crete. The lake is located at the foothills of the famous White Mountains, while the southeastern side is covered with olive groves.

Afterwards the next destination is the most representative example of a Cretan Renaissance city, which is the city of Rethymnon. Rethymnon is definitely the most picturesque, the most welcoming and the most authentic town in Crete.

As in all Cretan cities, Rethymno is full of Venetian features, constituting one of the best preserved Venetian cities in the Mediterranean. The landmark of the city is the Castle of Fortezza, which was built in 1573 to protect the Venetians from Ottoman navy attacks.

The Old Venetian Port and many remnants from the Ottoman oppression are also very important monuments. Behind the castle of Fortezza, lies the Old Town of Rethymno, with numerous scenic alleys and memorials.