Akrotiri enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with long hot summers and mild, rainy winters. It is a peninsula off the coast of northwest Crete. The central mountains of Crete create a barrier to the north prevailing winds so areas on the northern coast and north facing slopes receive cooler temperatures and higher rainfall than the south. However, in the summer this is actually preferable as the heat is not as uncomfortable. As Akrotiri sticks out into the sea it benefits from cooling winds.
Summer, from May till October, is hot and sunny. The average high temperature works its way from 24°C in May to a peak of 30°C in July and August then gets down to 23°C in October. At the beginning and end of the season night time temperatures are refreshingly low but in the peak months between July and September it often stays around 20°C. The sea breeze and low humidity help to keep this high heat in check, but some may still find it uncomfortable. It can get into the mid 30s. The best times for a beach holiday are in June and September when the heat is not at its highest.
Rainfall is incredibly low. The odd brief, heavy shower may fall but the area is often in drought between the months of May and September. While October can be considered as part of summer in terms of temperature, it sees an increase in rainfall which often arrives in thunderstorms and it is often overcast. Sunshine levels are exceptional with May and September seeing ten hours per day and the peak months seeing twelve. October only receives six hours per day though this is much higher than sunshine levels observed in the UK at this time, and most other times, of year.
Autumn, in November, is warm with an average high of 20°C and an average low of 13°C. Rainfall levels remain unchanged and heavy showers can be seen on about seven days in the month. Sunshine levels are good at five hours per day and the sea temperature is still warm enough for swimming.
Winter, between December and February, is mild and a bit wet. January is the coldest month with an average high of 14°C and an average low 8°C. This is considerably warmer than more northerly regions of Europe; Crete is a good place to come to escape the dreary British winter. However, it is not warm enough to sit out in your t-shirt or sunbathe in the barest minimum. The sea gets down to a brisk 15°C at its coldest in February. Rainfall peaks in January; drizzle and light showers are common. The wind can sometimes whip up violent storms. It is quite sunny for winter but days of non-stop sunshine are often followed by days of grey.
Spring, in March and April, is warm and bright. The average high temperature creeps to 17°C in March and 20°C in April and night time lows get above 10°C near the end of March. The clouds recede so the rain decreases and the sun returns. Early in the season is good for walking holidays but later on some real beach weather is guaranteed.
Akrotiri benefits from its southerly position in the Mediterranean Sea. This ensures warmth while the water helps the entire island avoid real extremes of temperature. The island has come to be considered a year round holiday destination as while summertime sees its beaches crowded with tourists its relative winter warmth still allows for the islandâs other attractions to be enjoyed. Akrotiri is mountainous with many gorges and caves. The green landscape is dotted with monasteries and archaeological sites.