Elounda Mare

Crete is the biggest of all the Greek islands, with so much to offer that it could easily be a country in its own right. This was the birthplace of Europe’s first advanced civilisation, the Minoans, and over the centuries the island has passed from empire to empire, with each leaving its own distinct impression on Crete’s history and culture, from Ancient Rome to the Ottoman Turks. The upmarket resorts of

Agios Nikolaos and Elounda in the east of the island are home to some of the finest luxury hotels in Greece, along with some of Crete’s best beaches, and offer easy access to Lasithi and Spinalonga. The island’s busy capital, Heraklion, is centrally located on the north coast, and is ideal if you’re interested in Crete’s history, with its Archaeological Museum and proximity to Knossos. Flying from London is approximately 4 hours and 10 mins, non-stop, and flights are available from various regional airports.

ELOUNDA MARE HOTEL RELAIS & CHÂTEAUX

CRETE, GREECE

SET ON A PEACEFUL BLUE FLAG AWARDED SANDY BEACH, THIS TRADITIONAL, BOUTIQUE RESORT PROVIDES AN INTIMATE SETTING WITH AWARD-WINNING DINING, PERFECTLY BLENDED TO CREATE A RELAXED STAY WITH THE FACILITIES OF THE RESORT’S SISTER PROPERTIES JUST STONE’S THROW AWAY.

There’s 46 rooms and suites, all boasting balconies with magnificent sea views. There is also a collection of 35 stunning low-rise bungalows and villas which blend beautifully with the natural landscape; each is filled with local antiques and works of art, and many feature private pools. The hotel’s Relais & Châteaux status ensures world-class culinary experiences from the three restaurants, with choices ranging from elegant fine dining to Greek themed evenings with traditional buffets and entertainment. The Yacht Club is not to missed, which offers dramatic views and hosts the “Fisher’s Evening” on a weekly basis, with a rich seafood buffet and the daily catch served as fresh as it gets. The hotel offers a complimentary transfer by sea to the nearby sister resort which is just 500m away and offers a nine-hole private golf course and Six Senses Spa and several culinary experiences.

DINING OPTIONS

Bed & Breakfast

PERFECT FOR

- Chilling out - Hopeless romantics - Beach bliss - Foodies

7 NIGHTS FROM £1,099 PER PERSON INCLUDING BREAKFAST.