Its raw beauty is undeniable, with glassy aquamarine waters and swirls of pastel-pink sands kissing the shore - a natural phenomenon caused by thousands of . The beaches arent huge so they do get busy; Bali is larger than it looks and popular with the package tourism crowd and daytrippers from the wider area. Transfer time: 30 minutes from Heraklion airport. The Akrotiri Peninsula is where youll find the airport, a swathe of villas, and a few spectacular beaches such as Stavros Bay and Seitan Limani. Isolated, authentic, and very tranquil, Lentas isnt for Crete thrill-seekers or partygoers. Take a dip in the courtyard pool; a stylish seaside hotel. Private sandy beach, and fantastic facilties for all the family including a luxury spa and kids club. Smart rooms and suites have modern furnishings, all the modern gadgetry, balconies, and some have private pools. There are actually three beaches within walking distance from the cobbled stone street village, all of which are pretty shallow and nestled amongst some really lovely local topography, allowing for some rather nice snorkelling experiences. Greece has over 1000 islands of which only 227 are inhabited. However, Balos Beach caught our eye for its clean waters and beautiful offshore reefs. Although be warned, the walk takes five to seven hours and can be strenuous, especially at the peak of summer. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED See More, A luxury boutique hotel with quirky design and a private stretch of beach. Due to the presence of cold spring water streams, the seawater can be cold, even in summer but the beach itself is stunning. Tourism here peaked in the 90s and as such it has a slightly careworn feel and is friendly but not busy. Panormos a small and charming traditional Cretan fishing village located on the northern coast has a few little extra bits that make it attractive, and a winery, it also has guided tours and tasting as well making it an attractive proposition indeed. It has the same old-world charms with its colourful Venetian harbourfront, relics of Turkish rule, student population, and tangle of tiny alleys. 26. See More, An opulent resort comprising five hotels in one on a private peninsula. Blue Palace Luxury Collection has views across to Spinalonga, an extensive spa, and direct access to a pebble beach. It is famous for its never-ending stretch of sand, fabulous sunsets and peaceful atmosphere. Set in landscaped gardens, the freshly reinvented Radisson Blu Beach Resort has seven pools, direct beach acces, and is popular with families. If you chose to arrive by boat, the route and views are particularly beautiful. There are two routes to the beach by boat or for the most extreme, there is a path from Chora Sfakion and another from Loutro. Its unsurprisingly popular with returnees. The walk between these two areas is truly stunning, the path along the way is marked with cairns to guide your route thankfully as it is easy to get distracted by the views! The area is popular with locals, which should tell you something, and as a result, the beachside cuisine in the local tavernas is to a pretty high standard. Our hotel experts have scoured the length and breadth of the island to bring you a collection of Crete's best beach hotels selected on their location, designs, service, and amenities. Glyka Nera is one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete and definitely one of the most unspoiled places to visit on the island, with deep blue water and fine white sands. 5* resort Domes of Elounda is one of Cretes most exclusive hotels and has access to a private sandy beach, VIP services, and a champagne bar. If you have a mix of old and young children or value convenience then Stalis is a solid option. These hikes can be strenuous and at some moments, hair-raising but they are well maintained. Agios Nikolaos has four sandy beaches though theyre all a little way out of the city Kitroplateira is the most central, Almiros is the nicest. Yes: Sougia is the best quiet beach in Crete, without a doubt. })(); For all the legal bits go to myDisclaimer and Privacy Policy, Cretan cooking experience in the mountains, check rooms and availability on Booking.com, 10 Perfect Gifts for Foodies Who Love Greece (Ideal for a Hamper), 10 Best Places for a Sunny Winter City Break in Europe. #14 of 51 hotels in Georgioupolis. It does attract some tourists, mainly from the continent. These vary greatly depending on the region and location: Snow white sand alternates with shell sand and fine gravel. The remote area of Sfakia on the southern coast is one of the most beautiful parts of Crete but you have to be prepared for an adventure to get there. With the exception of Paleochora, that is. Whether you are planning a getaway with the family, a couples' escape or a luxury break there is something to suit most tastes and budgets here. It is flanked by steep, mountainsides, home to a sizable herd of goats (judging from the clinking of bells) as well as a tepid sea, sheltered by a lush bay. My must-do highlights of Falassarna Experience a paragliding ride overlooking the coast to admire the island from a different perspective. The beach is in a protected park and no development is allowed with 1km. The outskirts of Hersonissos are home to some of Cretes swankiest 5* resort hotels. #9 Best Value of 66 Quiet Resorts in Crete. Heading to the beautiful Greek island of Crete this year? T Hotel Premium Suites is the most comfortable place in town. There is a Venetian architrave, Byzantine churches, frescos from the 14th century, and oodles of lush green countryside as a backdrop. See More, Impressive luxury resort, totally insulated from the outside world in semi-tropical gardens. And theres an ancient Minoan site that youre likely to have to yourself. Clearly, the island has so much more to offer aside from the famous mythology and legends, there are also sites of architectural, historical, and natural importance, that will leave any visitor completely enthralled! There are numerous beaches to visit, and if they are a bit far or you want to go further afield, as a bigger resort you can find hire cars for the standard rate. Royal Marmin Bay Boutique & Art Hotel 4. } Theres no real village to speak of, but there are a few places to stay tucked away in the flat plain behind the beach. Three excellent restaurants, salt water pools and an extensive spa complete the picture on this luxe stay. "The location is perfect as is one of the best beaches on the island, being quiet yet with locals around, and close enough to the Venetian Harbour for day or evening trips.". The one we are talking about is ideal if youve decided to stay in or near Agios, as its just around the bay. Rethymno Beach is also one of Cretes most important turtle nesting grounds. There are a few large all-inclusive hotels in Panormo Iberostar Creta Marine and Iberostar Creta Panorama & Mare being two of the larger ones. 1. Nana Princess Suites Villas & Spa 2. Its only a matter of steps to the beach. It has a slightly scruffy feel but there are two town beaches, an archaeological museum and some excellent restaurants to entertain you. Mythos Suites is another town highlight with a pool. Atlantica Kalliston Resort. Elounda is a good middle ground for those who dont want utter isolation, but still want to keep their break fairly relaxed. Two Cretes minor islands Chryssi and Koufonisi are just off this part of the shore. The beach here is better than any at Hersonissos, which is 5km away. Stay in Ierapetra: The Cretan Villa Hotel is a handsome restored 18th century building, or try apartments like the Big Blue Suites. Another sleepy Crete village, Tsoutsouros is undeveloped and charming (just how we like it). Agia Galini has a great selection of accommodation. Mitsis Laguna Resort & Spa. 5. Loutro:Porto Loutro On the Hill has the best position with balcony rooms looking out over the bay. There is the standard selection of resort hotels in the surrounding coastal areas stylish Cretan Malia Park is one of the best, with beachfront access, boho chic decor, and family-friendly facilities. From spending many breaks on this beautiful island, here is my choice for the quietest and most authentic and unspoiled places to visit in Crete which are perfect for travel snobs. The further out, the quieter it gets. #7 Best Value of 66 Quiet Resorts in Crete "The resort location gives quiet seclusion and comfort with its own small beach, sun terraces and infinity pool all with beautiful views over Mirabello Bay." "Secluded enough to be quiet and relaxing but also close enough to the picturesque town of Agios St Nikolas." Visit hotel website 2022 8. That said, they are exposed to the northwesterly Meltemi wind which blasts Greece throughout the summer beware big waves and undercurrents when the wind is blowing, pay attention to local advice. There is an increasing number of upmarket resorts in Sissi. #1 Best Value of 80 Beach Resorts in Crete "Highlights were Excellent, clean sandy beach and lot of sun beds on beach, around pools etc. The small city of Sitia is a working port town with a pleasant seafront promenade, a sandy town beach, and a slow lifestyle. As with the other northern cities, it has a Venetian Fortress (the Kazarma) and an Archaeological Museum. Crete is almost completely surrounded by beaches. But there are plenty of alternatives if your budget doesnt stretch quite that far, have a look at Blue Bay Resort Hotel, Peninsula Resort Hotel, Pela Mare, Seascape Luxury Residences, and Acro Wellness Suites. See More, This exclusive beachfront hotel in Rethymno recently underwent a full renovation.
25 of the best places to stay in Greece and the Greek islands Ideal for totally relaxing. The lagoon itself is actually an island that can be reached by paddling out to it.
The 12 Best Crete Beach Hotels (Greece) | Oyster.com A luxury beach holiday. The nearest rooms are a few miles away try the sereneGlykeria Hoteland Elafonisi Resort. Therefore it can be easier to decide on arrival airport/port first, or any attractions that you particularly want to visit, in order to narrow down where to stay. If finding tucked-away coves and exploring craggy rocks appeals to you then Milatos a small quaint Crete village may be the place for you. Mykonos has the best beach clubs (and nightlife). If youre planning on staying in the area for more than a few days in the summer then it makes sense to be out in one of Chanias coastal resorts, to take advantage of beach access and/or parking (which is very difficult in the centre). Dorm rooms are available for the budget traveller at Rethymno Youth Hostel. Its a bit of a trek from Chania airport, so if youre going, fly to Heraklion. Transfer time: 25 minutes from Heraklion International airport.
THE 10 BEST Crete Luxury Resorts 2023 (Prices) - Tripadvisor St Nicholas Bay Resort Hotels & Villas is a large 5* complex with direct beach access. Located to the eastern side of the island of Crete, Kato Zakros is a bit out of the way, but well worth the visit. Drive 10 minutes south from Agios Nikolaos for the stunning 5* resort Daios Cove, which has its own beach and private seawater plunge pools. Located in the south-eastern corner of the island is this tranquil, pristine, white-washed village full of traditional charm. Heraklion is located on the north coast of Crete and is home to the main airport of the island. Big Sur's craggy cliffs are breathtaking, but for an equally beautiful and less crowded California alternative, try this quiet spot tucked between Monterey and Carmel. On a budget? #3 Best Value of 119 Crete Resorts "The mini water park within the hotel is excellent, with plenty of slides for younger and older kids. The vibe is family-friendly thanks to its sheltered bay which is lined with a number of traditional tavernas. It feels a little like the end of the known world, and Sfakions are known for their fierce independence and excellent cheese pies. Location 3.9. #1 Best Value of 80 Beach Resorts in Crete . on: function(evt, cb) { 5* Minos Beach Art Hotel has 1km of beach access, spacious grounds, and calming minimalist decor.