Crete - Heraklion Area
The largest island in Greece, Crete is a feast for the senses: wild natural beauty and thousands of years of culture, history and exquisite cuisine
Meanwhile, endless kilometres of golden coastline surround Ierapetra, in the Lassithi prefecture to the east. And the celebrated palm forest in Vai is one of the most spectacular sights in Crete, where palm trees embrace the golden sand, while the beaches of Elounda and those around Agios Nikolaos are not to be missed.
On Crete, you’ll find some of the most significant attractions in Greece: famous archaeological sites such as the Minoan palaces of Knossos, Phaistos, Malia and Kato Zakros. You’ll also visit important monasteries, some built in the 15th century or even earlier, including the Preveli Monastery in southern Rethymno, the monasteries in southern Heraklion and the historic Arkadi and Toplous monasteries.
A paradise for thrill-seekers, hikers and nature lovers
Crete is the ideal destination for all kinds of sports and activities in nature. For canyoning and hiking, the gorges offer unparalleled beauty. The largest and most famous is Samaria, with its world-renowned Portes (Iron Gates). Other noteworthy canyons are Amba, Tripiti, Kourtaliotiko, Kamaraiko (the longest), Ha (the so-called ‘king of Cretan gorges’), and Ethias and Eligas. You’ll hike across these landscapes of sublime beauty and diversity and, for off-road and 4x4, you’ll zig and zag along Crete’s dirt roads. Meanwhile, the cosmopolitan resorts in both the north and south of the island are ideal for water sports and scuba diving.
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The Venetian port of Heraklion is a lively city filled with sights, museums, restaurants, bars and hotels. Walk along the walls of the old city and explore Morosini (Leondaria) Square, the Loggia (City Hall), Agios Titos and Armeria (the armoury).
Ierapetra: The old town with its narrow alleyways, little harbour and famous Fortress of Kales is one of the most significant sights in Crete.
Agios Nikolaos: A cosmopolitan summer resort, with the mystical allure of Lake Vouliagmeni (which, legend has it, is bottomless), lined with numerous cafes and restaurants.
Sitia: The historic Kazarma Fortress (Casa di arma) and its animated waterfront, with cafes, shops and restaurants, should definitely be on your list of destinations to visit.
Elounda: A cosmopolitan paradise of sophisticated resorts and hotels, with private beaches, pools and piers. It has the highest concentration of Greece’s five-star resorts.
Lassithi: Visit the palm forest at Vai but make sure you also find time for the caves of Diktean Antro and Milatos, the island fortress of Spinalonga and the Lassithi Plateau.
Mount Ida (Psiloritis): Ambitious hikers will climb to the top of the tallest mountain in Crete and be rewarded with an unforgettable view.
THINGS TO DO & SEE
Palace of Knossos
Samaria Gorge
In a Nutshell
Eastern Crete is home to upscale Elounda...dramatic scenery and mountainous villages and several beaches..a good fly drive option in early & late season
Getting Here
Fly to Heraklion - Approx. 60-90min transfer time to resort
Direct flights from London Gatwick with British Airways
Daily Direct flights from London Gatwick with Easyjet
Direct flights from Manchester with Easyjet
Direct flights from Stansted with Jet2
Direct flights from Manchester with Jet2
Direct flights from Birmingham with Jet2
Direct flights from Bristol with Jet2
Direct flights from East Midlands with Jet2
Direct flights from Newcastle with Jet2
Direct flights from Leeds Bradford with Jet2
Direct flights from Belfast with Jet2
Direct flights from Edinburgh with Jet2
Direct flights from Glasgow with Jet2
Our location maps are intended as a helpful guide but are by no means definitive.
OUR 48 CRETE - HERAKLION AREA PROPERTIES
North Coast Seaside Suites is a brand-new property located in the heart of Rethymnon town consisting of thirteen luxury suites. These Suites offer a unique combination of lively vibes from downtown Rethymnon and a relaxing atmosphere from the ...
More InformationStay in the heart of Rethmnon! Only a 5 minute walk from the long sandy beach, these elegantly modern suites are decorated with luxurious features, including satellite TV, exclusive bedding and branded toiletries, Nespresso coffee machines, private ...
More InformationCasa Maistra Residence is a 19th century traditional residence right in the middle of the town's promenade, the Venetian coastal road Ruga Maistra. Restored in 2010, keeping the original traditional architecture, the building was divided into 3 ...
More InformationA luxury villa complex of 8 stylish and spacious villas, nestled graciously on a private waterfront location overlooking the Mirabello Bay. From the moment you arrive at Thalassa Villas, you step into another world; A world in which every need has ...
More InformationWelcome to Amazing Villas. A collection of sophisticated and traditional accommodation units, that truly represent and respect the essence of Cretan natural beauty and the local way of life. and riveting history. Placed amidst Crete's most authentic ...
More InformationCrete villas are the ideal choice to experience the island in all its splendour, offering absolute comfort and privacy so you can relax in luxury and explore all delights the island offers. Discover historical sites scattered across the island, from ...
More InformationResembling an authentic Cretan village with its picturesque neighbourhood, central clock square and traditional Kafenion, Candia Park village offers a truly incomparable family holiday experience to all of its guests. Families and couples alike are ...
More InformationCressa Ghitonia Village in Lassithi is a unique and special resort on the world-famous island of Crete combining history, legacy, exclusivity and the highest standards of boutique hotel style.15 buildings in total form a small and charming complex, ...
More InformationEsperides Resort Crete is a newly-renovated resort with breathtaking sea views. Located in the heart of the cosmopolitan and traditional village Koutouloufari, where every visitor can experience the warm hospitality of a traditional Cretan village ...
More InformationLess than a 45-minute ride from Heraklion International airport, the Island Concept Boutique Hotel is as idyll a retreat as you’ll find. If what you are looking for is sheltered luxury, then this is your place.
Set on its own secluded mini ...
More InformationThe adults only Royal Marmin Bay Boutique & Art Hotel overlooking the famous Mirabello Bay in Elounda Crete is architecturally blended with the natural environment and is the first energy efficient, ecologically green hotel in Greece that ...
More InformationCreta Blue Suites is will restore your natural rhythm and reinvigorate your soul. The picturesque village of Koutouloufari is the perfect place for a relaxing holiday, complete with magnificent views of the Aegean sea and the old port of ...
More InformationA cluster of beautifully renovated Venetian dwellings in Rethymnon's old town, Avli comprises a world renowned restaurant, ten luxurious suites, an enticing wine cellar and a traditional products shop.
Avli was established in 1987 by Katerina ...
More InformationDYO Suites Luxury Boutique Hotel is a customized and individual hotel with unique architecture & design style. Eight Suites that bring a unique architectural design, luxury and careful furniture selection, will offer the relaxation, comfort and ...
More InformationRimondi Boutique Hotels are the pinnacle of elegance and cosmopolitanism right in the vibrant heart of the Venetian quarter of Old Town Rethymnon, Crete, Greece, destined for eclectic travelers. Travellers can stay within absolute serenity ...
More InformationThe traditional settlement of Koutsounari is just 10 km from beautiful Ierapetra, at an altitude of 600m and just beneath the 'little Meteora' of Crete. These stone-built residences scattered around Koutsounari were built exclusively by Cretan ...
More InformationEnorme Santanna Beach is a new hotel opened in 2020 and scores top marks in style. Built on a small hill, it offers a panoramic view of the Cretan Sea. The contemporary design permeates throughout the hotel.
The main pool has an infinite edge ...
More InformationWelcome to an exclusive beachfront experience in the heart of Réthymnon. Thalasses Boutique Hotel is situated in a building with 150 years of history, fully renovated from the ground up in 2017 - to redefine the level of comfort and customer ...
More InformationIn the heart of the cosmopolitan resort destination of Agia Pelagia, the Seascape Luxury Residences have redefined the meaning of Cretan hospitality and invite you to enjoy an atmosphere of unique comfort and modern aesthetics.
The Seascape ...
More InformationThe Kapsaliana Village Hotel is located in the prefecture of Rethymnon, Crete, 18 km from the main town, 4 km from the historical Arkadi Monastery, 75 km from Heraklion airport and 85 km from Chania airport.
On approaching Kapsaliana you will ...
More InformationA timeless and luxurious Boutique Resort in Crete's breathtaking landscape. 11 brand new luxury villas & suites, ideally located on a quiet hill in Anissaras with panoramic views to the wide blue Cretan Sea from sunrise to sunset. Built and designed ...
More InformationAn award-winning luxury hotel in Sissi Crete, the Castello Boutique Resort & Spa is part of the Castello Hotels Group and a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. The resort overlooks the immeasurable natural beauty of Crete in one of the most ...
More InformationThe Mirabello Gulf. One of the most breathtaking corners of Crete, where the sea, the land and the sky create a mesmerizing kaleidoscope that captivates the visitor's senses. Harmonically placed at the heart of this well-balanced scenery, you will ...
More InformationThe I Resort Beach Hotel and Spa is a luxury 227-room hotel situated in the seaside vibrant village of Stalis, I Resort Beach Hotel and Spa promises you a truly memorable stay.
The iconic design, the wide variety of facilities, the hotel’s ...
More InformationThe Angela Suites Boutique Hotel combines the warmth of the Mediterranean with contemporary architecture. Centrally located in the village of Sissi, yet close to the beach (200m), this stylish hotel provides a friendly and serene atmosphere.
The ...
More InformationAn elevated hospitality experience comes to Crete with the opening of the majestic Nana Princess, a brand new exclusive beachfront resort in Hersonissos overlooking the spectacular Cretan Sea. Nestled amongst a lush green landscape, the resort is a ...
More InformationLegacy Gastro Suites is a completely new five-star, luxury boutique hotel with just 12 unique, thematically linked suites in the heart of Heraklion, Crete's vibrant seaside capital. This new hotel uniquely blends the best of Greece's richly varied ...
More InformationStella Island Luxury Suites and Spa, is an 'Adults only' hotel,that brings a touch of the Maldives to Crete!
The resort has several room types including over water bungalows with Jacuzzis. Guests can choose from half board, full board or All ...
More InformationEnveloped by the cerulean sea, St Nicolas Bay in Crete offers a piece of paradise for couples, families, friends and business travellers seeking for an out of this world experience in the enchanting region of Elounda in Greece. A luxury hotel in ...
More InformationAll Inclusive
Disconnect from your routine in Crete’s most iconic landscape, where vibrant communities & calm wilderness meet. Local history unveils itself through the stunning views over the fortified and UNESCO protected islet of Spinalonga. The inviting ...
More InformationCayo, is situated on a hillside in Northeast Crete next to the picturesque village of Plaka, Elounda offering unobstructed, breathtaking views of the island of Spinalonga and the gulf of Elounda.
Sophisticated and stylish, luxurious, and chic, ...
More InformationCrete is an extraordinary island. It is situated at the Southern Aegean Sea, forming a crossroad for three continents, Europe, Asia and Africa. It is the largest and most diverse island in Greece and the 5th largest island in the ...
More InformationSet on a prime beachfront estate in the heart of the Cretan Riviera, just minutes from the old-world charm of Rethymnon’s Venetian harbour, Caramel recreates the laid-back ambience of an island village with the understated elegance and amenities ...
More InformationMinos Beach art hotel, a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, is a boutique luxury hotel in Crete. Located right on the water's edge, this 5 star luxury hotel offers all the standards of high-quality accommodation, from the authentic and ...
More InformationElounda Beach Hotel & Villas, one of the most renowned hotels in Crete needs little introduction. It boasts a compilation of superbly designed and decorated rooms, villas, suites and presidential suites. Each and every one of them regardless of ...
More InformationLocated along the northern coast of Crete, an island renowned for its unspoiled coastal charm, natural beauty and rich culture lies the picturesque Ikaros Beach Luxury Resort and Spa. The hotel is perfectly positioned on a rocky peninsula with sandy ...
More InformationOn the southernmost coast of Europe, contemporary Mediterranean style meets traditional Cretan hospitality in the vibrant environment of Ostria Resort & Spa. Surrounded by Olive trees and local flora, this outstanding resort welcomes you with ...
More InformationThe Royal Blue Resort & Spa Crete, is located on the northern coast of the island of Crete, next to the small traditional village of Panormo. Only 22 km from Rethymnon and 55 km from Heraklion, the hotel is easily accessible both from Chania and ...
More InformationAmirandes is an exclusive beachside resort that epitomises Crete's most inspiring features: beautiful architecture, warm hospitality, excellent cuisine and stunning land and seascapes.
Styled after the sprawling palaces of the Minoan kings and ...
More InformationBask in the chic surroundings of this Cycladic-style resort. Located on Crete's northern coastline, Abaton offers elegant accommodation and panoramic sea views. Indulge mind, body and soul at the best Elemis spa together with a collection of ...
More InformationImmerse yourself in this unique hideaway located in Crete with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. This well-hidden secret reveals a paradise for all your senses.
The cave Suites (the wellness spa) & the Yoga Shala embrace the area's raw aesthetic ...
More InformationLady Sea is a 6 Bedroom Sea View Villa in Palaiokastro, Crete, which unfolds in three levels and blends wisely into the beautiful Heraklion landscape, offering complete privacy and impeccable sea views to its guests. It is an ideal hideaway to ...
More InformationThis family-owned, award winning and member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Boutique Villa-Hotel offers only 18 stylish villas, all with their own private pool, 5 Pool Suites with private pool and private massage room, 1 Seafront Villa and ...
More InformationLyttos Mare was created as an all sense awakening experience with an emphasis on the element of water. The resort is situated on a beautiful Cretan beach with crystal blue waters and the architecture of the space is based on living in the water. ...
More InformationNext to a magnificent sandy beach on the north coast of Crete, boasting views of the Cretan sea’s in-finite blue and within close proximity to central road arteries and the capital of the island, Lyttos Beach offers a range of activities tailored ...
More InformationNUMO is an adult-friendly seaside resort that aims to showcase Ierapetra, a lesser known part of southern Crete, through a modern lens. In a sun-drenched, beachfront location surrounded by evergreen gardens, it is a barefoot luxury resort offering a ...
More InformationThe Wyndham Grand Crete Mirabello Bay enjoys a tranquil beachfront location in Agios Nikolaos. Imbued with two captivating pools - one designed for adults only, granular beaches, a Sports and Fitness Hub, tempting restaurants and bars, kids' ...
More InformationElounda Bay Palace Hotel is set amongst the historic cultural and naturally varied beauty of northeastern Crete, in Elounda. Its tranquil setting at the edge of Mirabello Bay, a truly blissful place to call home, is surrounded by 20 acres of lush ...
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