best quiet beach resorts in crete best quiet beach resorts in crete

On a budget? Stavros Bay aerial: Mike Drosos / Shutterstock, Matala rocks: Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock, Map of Crete: The Mediterranean Traveller, Map of Chania region The Mediterranean Traveller, Elafonissi: Zakhar Marunov / Adobe Stock, Paleochora: Vladimir1984 / Shutterstock, Map of Rethymnon region The Mediterranean Traveller, Panormo: Jaroslav Moravcik / Shutterstock, Agia Galini: Georgios Kritsotakis / Shutterstock, Map of Heraklion region The Mediterranean Traveller, Agia Pelagia: Kiev.Victor / Shutterstock, Map of Lasithi region The Mediterranean Traveller, Agios Nikolaos: olgaarkhipenko / Adobe Stock, Elounda: Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock. Each of these areas offers exceptional hotels, fantastic dining, and a wide range of nearby . Two Cretes minor islands Chryssi and Koufonisi are just off this part of the shore. Rethymno Beach is also one of Cretes most important turtle nesting grounds. Brilliant choice of restaurants, easy to book each morning Popi the waitress in the main Cosmos restaurant was so att." Loutro:Porto Loutro On the Hill has the best position with balcony rooms looking out over the bay. Located in the south-eastern corner of the island is this tranquil, pristine, white-washed village full of traditional charm. Take your pick from three gourmet restaurants and bars, including a poolside bar. #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." Special offer 2022 8. Some swim-up rooms are available. The Royal Blue Resort. But there are plenty of returners from those days its warm seas, great views, and some of the best fishing in Greece make it particularly popular with expats. Honeymoons - A haven of tranquility with private villas with mountian and sea views, spoiling massages and haute cuisine overlooking the bay. If you want to explore the culinary, you will have a vast variety of restaurants and amazing coffee shops. Sitia, windsurf and nice beaches For a taste of the less touristy places on the island, Sitia is your town where to stay in Crete. For those on a smaller budget, have a look at the small and friendly Nostos Hotel which is a few minutes from the main harbour. Pick of the pack is the uber-chic Serenissima Boutique Hotel its located one block back from the main harbour in a 15th-century Venetian mansion. The beautiful unspoilt Samari Gorge is a major tourist attraction of the island and was created by a small river running through the White Mountains. Numerous beautiful beaches with soft sand or colored pebbles are found in the prefecture of Chania in western Crete. The one thing I would highly recommend is getting sea shoes as there are sea urchins on the rocks!! There are so many luxury hotels in Elounda that its impossible to list them all. Sifaka & Gavaladon 5, Old Town, Chania, Crete Island, 73101. Three fine dining restaurants, state of the art spa, private sandy beach. 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. Top things to see and do in Rethymno include: And possible day trips in the area include: Rethymnon Beach is Cretes longest sandy beach at 12km long, and as it extends east from the city it swallows up villages that have long since morphed into suburban beach resorts. The Spinalonga peninsula is connected to the town by a causeway the peninsula curves right around and the UNESCO-listed island sits at its tip, creating a natural harbour sheltered from the elements. The beach is sandy and the sea is calm, though the south coast does get fierce winds at times. Its a perfect romantic destination for couples. Although the hippies have long since been moved on, and the caves protected and closed to the public, the town retains a laidback feel despite the explosion of tourism here. Development is focused around a small harbour and excellent beach sandy, with shallow child-friendly waters. If you want to meet other travellers there are two hostels in town Intra Muros and So Young, but private rooms in traditional domatia or apartments can be foundfor a similar price. See More, An ultra-luxurious haven combining the best of villa and hotel facilities, with over half the villas having private infinity pools. For a private beach, an award-winning spa and fine dining, try the Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa. It also provides stunning views from all angles. Its not perhaps as quaint as some of the other places on this list but what it lacks in tradition it more than makes up for in swankiness and still manages to retain an air of what makes Crete so great. Beach bums are better off at Plakias (see below). . Just dont expect to find authentic Crete here. See More, A modern North Western Crete resort and spa, surrounded by acres of lush landscaped gardens. The lagoon itself is actually an island that can be reached by paddling out to it. ; SOUTH: Most of the main beach resorts are on the south coast, busier on the west side and getting quieter the further east you get. This is part of a Greek holiday resort guide series and will cover: Roughly speaking, the north coast is developed and is home to the main cities and also most of the beach resort towns. The most well-known landmark is the blush pink Yiali Tzami mosque on the waterfront, with the main (outer) harbour on one side and the Venetian (inner) harbour and arsenal on the other. Explore the surrounding islands or simply lie back and relax. This amazing place is like the Caribbean side of Crete. Lyttos Beach Resort is a 150-acre family-friendly hotel with dated interior spaces but beautiful grounds, including a sandy beach with free loungers and a lifeguard. Triopetra Beach is located on the south of the island around a 2 hour drive from Heraklion airport. Mythos Suites is another town highlight with a pool. Most of the accommodation in this area is in traditional rooms and studios. These hikes can be strenuous and at some moments, hair-raising but they are well maintained. The walk can take upwards of two hours depending on ability and speed, but also inclination, make sure you take your time to soak up the beautiful views and atmosphere. 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. #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. Royal Marmin Bay Boutique & Art Hotel 4. This area is perfect for beach lovers (although its worth noting that the main beach does get very windy). 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 . Plaka has a lovely beach, especially lovely if you dont like sand getting everywhere, as its made from pebbles. Rooms mirror the outdoors, blue and breezy, some suites come with terraces and pools. 26. Enter dates to see prices. 2,101 reviews. The majority of Bahamian beaches are safely in "paradise on Earth" territory. Several celebrities (including Brad and Angelina in happier days) have been spotted walking on its sandy shores, this combined with it being a hotspot for European dignitaries just adds to the appeal. Shark Creek Beach, Great Harbour Cay, Berry Islands, The Bahamas. Kato Zakros is located on the east coast of the island around a 3 hour journey from Heraklion airport. If you're looking for a quiet, isolated experience . All rooms boast sea views and Egyptian cotton sheets; the best have a private terrace hot tub and marble bathroom. Several of the Elounda luxury resorts are actually in Plaka. 1. An award winning restaurant, a superb wine list and a well-known spa on site. #30 Best Value of 32 Crete Luxury Beach Resorts 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. So many people make a beeline for Rethymno that its surrounding villages are something of a hidden gem. It doesnt matter where you go you will always find greenery spots. 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! It can be as quiet or as rowdy as you like. The most famous part of the gorge is the stretch known as the Gates where the sides of the gorge close into a width of only four meters and soar up to a height of almost 300 meters. The coastline is developed on either side, but it was the introduction of budget flights to Chania airport that really put it on the map. Transfer time: 25 minutes to the main harbour from Chania International airport. The town isnt strictly a beach resort, so theres plenty to see and do besides basking. Most of the beach is lined with tavernas, cafes and bars, but with easy acces to the city. Follow us on Facebook or Twitter. Although elements of the walk can be tiring, its most definitely worth it. With that and the relative peace and quiet, its an ideal spot to just be on this wonderful island. Hersonissos is the biggest resort in Crete, its a large and lively resort town with something to suit every taste and budget. Giannoulis - Grand Bay Beach Resort (Exclusive Adults Only) Kolymvari. Besides the beach, guests gather at the Olympic-sized pool and water park with a big slides for older kids and adults. There are no luxury hotels in the area, but an excellent selection of traditional family-run hotels and pensions, many with sea views. " The hotel is very relaxing and although it is a bit quiet a night it really is the perfect mix of 5 star luxury during the day with the authenticity of amazing local Greek Tavernas like Zachos . The nearest rooms are a few miles away try the sereneGlykeria Hoteland Elafonisi Resort. NORTH: Rugged and unpopulated, with quiet but windy beaches. There are several beaches that you can reach by foot, and as the crowds thin out you can still find a few nudist beaches. Suites have private pools. But what you will find is a collection of properly local eateries, a few small and sandy beaches, and crystal clear water if you want to go for a dip. Chania Flair Deluxe Boutique Hotel Show prices Enter dates to see prices 202 reviews A luxurious hideaway near Rethymnon. But the highlight is the peaceful and picture-perfect sugar cube village of Loutro, with its whitewashed walls and electric blue seas. Enjoy the many dining options, good spa and lots of activities - tennis, water sports and nearby nightlife. One of the main things to do in Heraklion is to catch a ferry to visit Santorini, Mykonos and other places. 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. The small city of Sitia is a working port town with a pleasant seafront promenade, a sandy town beach, and a slow lifestyle. It has a quiet and authentic atmosphere and a well-sheltered beach its one of the best places in Crete for families with small children. Sougia is located on the South West coast of the island around a 3 hour 20 minute drive from Heraklion airport. Balos Beach is one of the best beaches in Greece if you want that fine white sand aesthetic. Palazzo Duca is one block behind the harbour and is clean and modern with comfortable Cocomat mattresses. Its vulnerable to high winds but on the other hand, this makes it ideal for surfers. Large rooms offer mountain views or sea views from the large glass windows. The village itself is loaded with a rich history, including a museum which houses finds of Minoan archaeological importance found nearby and you can hear tales about the towns colourful past and folklore in the many local tavernas. But it has everything you need its ideal if youre looking to enjoy one place for your holiday and dont feel the need to visit the larger towns. Transfer time: 15 minutes from Heraklion International airport. The area is also crisscrossed with donkey paths that make it fantastic for walking (its possible to walk to Plaka). Although almost every main beach gets busy in July and August, you can usually walk just a few minutes away to find a patch of heaven sans crowds. There are 3 main beaches and a long waterfront area thats full of seafood restaurants, bars and clubs, and is popular in the evening. 5* Minos Beach Art Hotel has 1km of beach access, spacious grounds, and calming minimalist decor. Chania (pronounced Hania and sometimes spelt Xania), with its old Venetian streets, is the gem of Crete and its nicest city. The nation boasts nearly 5,800 miles of coastline, stretching along the warm Gulf of Mexico to the east and the . Although the panorama can make you trigger happy with the camera, dont ignore the beauty right beside you on the path a Venetian fort, ancient churches, ancient cisterns, and the breath-taking remains of the ruined ancient town of Pikilassos, not to mention the beautiful flora and fauna that you encounter along the way, including lots of olive trees resist the urge to pillage! Transfer time: 1hr 35 minutes from Chania International airport. Head east from Sitia and you eventually reach is Paleokastro, a windswept resort with an edge-of-the-world feel and some of the best windsurfing in Europe. 17. But at the end of the day, Mexico will always be known as a beach destination - and for good reason. a rundown of Crete's quieter resorts and villages; the best places to stay for couples, families and nature CRETE OVERVIEW BEST LUXURY HOTELS: Domes of Elounda, Daios Cove, Abaton Island Resort and Spa, Domes Noruz. Transfer time: Ierapetra minutes from Heraklion airport, Makrigialos 1 hr 50 minutes from Heraklion airport. 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. Dont expect anything in the way of amenities when you get there (its actually a nature reserve and is treated accordingly). Avli Luxury Apartments are sumptuously decorated and theres a rooftop pool. If you are staying one or more nights, you dont need to worry about thumping music or all-night parties. These vary greatly depending on the region and location: Snow white sand alternates with shell sand and fine gravel. Theres plenty to keep older children entertained, including watersports and boat trips. It is an absolute must for visitors to Crete is to complete the walk down the gorge from the Omalos plateau to Agia Roumeli on the Libyan Sea, at which point tourists sail to the nearby village of Sougia or Hora Sfakion, where they could spend a night or they could catch a coach back to Chania. Take a dip in the courtyard pool; a stylish seaside hotel. Boasting unspoilt bay views, life plays out on a different tempo here. Accommodation is spacious and secluded, the best options have heated seawater pools, but all are utterly indulgent. Interiors are chic, contemporary and comfortable. The upmarket vibe of Elounda is rubbing off on the small nearby village of Plaka, which is ideal with those looking for a quiet and peaceful holiday. Top attractions and things to do in Chania include: Head west from the main harbour to hit the town beaches Nea Chora is the closest and a 15-minute walk, Chryssi Akti is the nicest. The landscape is dry and barren, and the beaches largely empty. There are a few large all-inclusive hotels in Panormo Iberostar Creta Marine and Iberostar Creta Panorama & Mare being two of the larger ones. !" Breakfast included 2022 2. Stay in Makrigialos: White Pearl Apartments are right on the beach. Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas 8. Boutique and luxury: Cressa Corona Boutique Hotel is the best address in town. Crete is a large island the fifth largest in the Mediterranean and you can find whatever youre looking for in each region. The 680-room Creta Maris Beach Resort is a beachfront all-inclusive resort a 10-minute walk from Limenas Hersonissos village. But the rowdy bars are largely confined to one strip the Malia Mile, and the party doesnt start until later in the evening. The beaches in this area are all sandy, clean and stretch as far as the eye can see! Crete is almost completely surrounded by beaches. Minos Beach Art Hotel Agios Nikolaos, Crete 129 rooms from 336. Youre most likely to end up here if youre catching a ferry to Kythira or to Gythio on the mainland, or if youre using it as a base to explore the nearby beaches at Balos and Falassarna. All rooms come with an outdoor pool and private hot tubs. S&K Villas near Amyrida has a modern white cubist design and pool. After a day at the (pebble) beach, you can step out in your Sunday best and pace up and down the walkway paralleling the seafront whilst wondering if you have time to look at the menu before you are accosted by the occupants (Im joking, they are lovely and generally friendly more than pushy). Euphoria Resort 7. No roads lead here and there are no nightclubs or nightlife. But there are many places offering rooms and studios at a great price. Lasithi, the easternmost province of Crete, is home to some of its most luxurious hotels as well as its wildest and most traditional areas. Naxos has the best beaches (but little nightlife). There are numerous beaches dotted about, and if you are staying for more than a few days it can be good fun to try a different one each day. Transfer time: 1hr 30 minutes from Chania airport. It has a pretty setting in the Gulf of Mirabello with waterfront bars encircling a small lake its made for people watching, and there is a cosmopolitan cafe-bar scene. It is famous for its never-ending stretch of sand, fabulous sunsets and peaceful atmosphere. Plakias is one of the nicest small resorts on Crete. Mykonos has the best beach clubs (and nightlife). Its unsurprisingly popular with returnees. 5. And theres an ancient Minoan site that youre likely to have to yourself. One of the best beaches in the south coast of Crete, You can actually park the car by the beach, there are a couple o. Youll find the standard Greek beachside fare if you want to have a halftime break, and nestled in its backstreets are a multitude of boutique-style shops selling some handmade, and some not-so-handmade trinkets. The wonderful White Mountains are located in Western Crete, and their gleaming shine is the dominant feature of the region. 9. There are few roads in the area, and some of the villages are accessible only by boat. If you want a bit of light culture there is a church (Agios Panteleimon) on the Western side of the village, it has a gorgeous mosaic floor and is not commercial in any way (if you want to see it youll have to go to the kiosk on Sougia beach and ask for the key yourselfseriously)! BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CRETE IN AGIOS NIKOLAOS ($$$) Minos Beach Art Hotel ($$) Miramare Resort & Spa ($) Ikaros Art Hotel FIND AGIOS NIKOLAOS HOTEL DEALS 5. Discover our best beaches of Crete: Balos, Elafonissi, and Falassarna in Chania, Preveli in Rethymno, Vai in Lassithi, and more. Mexico is one of those well-rounded countries that offer a little bit of everything: food, culture, gorgeous landscapes, and some of the best hotels and resorts in the entire world. Some of the most beautiful and unique beaches are in the area nearby Damnoni is sandy with shallow clear waters, perfect for kids. But almost every island has at least a few great swimming beaches. Bozzali. listeners: [], The Troulis Apart-hotel is excellent value. My favourite was Geropotamos Beach, there is a rather attractive stone arch to the west and, on the east, a freshwater river running directly into the sea.