Elounda Beach Hotel And Villas – Crete

Heaven on earth. Yes, it does exist. And it’s nestled on the northern coast of Crete. Elounda Beach Hotel and Villas is the resort dreams are made of. Perched on the Mediterranean, it has 1.5 km of pristine coastline, villas with heated infinity pools and mouthwatering gourmet cuisine. This is luxury at its best. I’m talking world-class spa, private helipad for those who choose to fly in and yachting villas with direct access to the sea. If you’re looking for the best money can buy on this magnificent Greek island, this is it…

But let’s go beyond the aesthetics for a minute and talk about what stood out most during our recent visit: the hospitality. Surprisingly not the pretentious, cold service one may expect at such an establishment. These guys have been around for over four decades and have fostered a tightly-knit network of both staff and patrons alike. It’s the kind of place guests return to over and over again — as if it was their own summer house — to find the same staff (who’ve somehow memorized their names, preferences and family history) greeting them with a genuine smile. It’s refreshing. And in my opinion, how luxury should feel. Although it was our first time visiting, they immediately embraced us and made us feel like family with a champagne welcome before we were transferred via golf cart to our private villa…

As the blue door of villa #163 swung open, my jaw dropped to the floor. I was blown away by the unobstructed views of Mirabello Bay, private pool and gorgeous deck even before we stepped inside…

After taking in the spectacular view, we glided the door open to explore the rest of our villa. I spotted a bottle of Veuve with some fresh fruit, water and snacks on the coffee table (a welcome package all guests receive), but was distracted by our beautiful room. Walk-in closets, spacious living room, private gym, dreamy bathroom (with jacuzzi tub, steam shower, his-and-her sinks and marble floors) — you name it, they’ve thought of every detail. I personally loved the automatic curtains which can be controlled from the bed, fresh flowers, Bvlgari toiletries and abundance of coat hangers in the closet (I could hang my entire wardrobe — yeay!).

Now, I’m not one to hibernate in a hotel room/resort, but when the accommodation is this magnificent there really is no need to leave. Alas, I was there to experience the full resort so I could report back to you guys so I pulled myself off the pool chair and went off to explore. I quickly realized why most guests stay 2-3 weeks at Elounda Beach Hotel and Villas: it’s huge and offers an incredible range of things to do. Four private beaches, outdoor swimming pool, extensive gardens, luxury shopping arcade, open-air amphitheater, floodlit tennis courts, volleyball, badminton, mini golf, water sports, diving centre… I could go on and on…

Oh, and did I mention they have 16 restaurants and lounges?!? From Italian and Japanese-Peruvian to traditional Greek and local Cretan food. Truly a glutton’s dream…

And while I’ve been underwhelmed by numerous spas at luxury resorts, I’m thrilled to report that The Espace Vitalité Chenot Crete is remarkable. Their fully-integrated approach to wellness and powerful treatments are world-class. As are their facilities…

But my favourite memory at Elounda Beach Hotel and Villas? Lounging poolside with hubster listening to waves crash on shore. At nights we’d watch blackbirds fly across the pool and stargaze (we spotted Mars and Saturn!) and during the day we soaked up the sun and epic views…

Sigh, Elounda Beach Hotel and Villas really is heaven at sea level. A place I’d highly recommend for those of you looking for a tranquil, elegant and exclusive luxury resort with exceptional personalized service. And while there are regular rooms available onsite, this is the kind of place where you’ll want to splurge on a villa. You will not regret it…

Huge thanks to Elounda Beach Hotel and Villas for hosting us at their beautiful resort. As always, all reviews and opinions are entirely my own.