A Luxury Escape to Crete with Amy

At Travel Village, we love to experience the world for ourselves, we enjoy the feeling of knowing we can tell you our stories and our opinions of the best places to visit. Recently, one of our personal travel consultants, Amy, had the incredible opportunity to visit multiple hotels in Crete.

Day 1: 

Our journey began with an early flight from Manchester, landing just under four hours later in Heraklion, Crete. As the largest of the Greek Islands, Crete offers an alluring blend of rich culture and natural beauty. Our first stop was the 5-star Grecotel Amirandes, a luxury resort near the mountains and endless sea views.

Upon arrival, we were greeted with a warm Greek welcome. My room for the night was a deluxe side sea view, offering stunning sights of the pool, beach, and ocean. For lunch, we were spoiled with a seemingly endless array of dishes.

After settling in, we embarked on a hotel inspection with the operations manager. Exploring the variety of room types, restaurants, and luxurious facilities the Grecotel Amirandes offers. This elegant property is perfect for couples seeking relaxation and indulgence. The evening brought a delightful five-course dinner at Lago Di Candia, the resort’s waterfront restaurant. With a backdrop of the Cretan Sea, we enjoyed a selection of steaks and fresh seafood. The experience was magical.

Day 2: 

After a hearty breakfast, we checked out of Grecotel Amirandes and headed to our next stop for a site inspection. The 4-star Grecotel Marine Palace and Aqua Park. A stark contrast from the serene luxury of Amirandes, this resort is designed with families in mind. Made up of three complexes, including an on-site waterpark, it’s no wonder this all-inclusive haven is a favourite among families. The resort offers a balance of lively and peaceful areas, with fantastic entertainment options and a safe, sheltered beach for younger children.

Our transfer then took us to the 5-star Grecotel Creta Palace, which would be our home for the following two nights. We toured the property, checking out various rooms, restaurants, and facilities before enjoying another delicious lunch. My deluxe sea view room was fabulous, with perfect views of the beach and ocean. The Creta Palace is a haven for both couples and families, offering a blend of relaxation and activity. 

Evenings can be spent dining at one of the hotel’s four restaurants or sipping cocktails at one of the bars. If you’re craving a livelier experience, Rethymnon’s Venetian Harbor, packed with bars and cafes, is just a short drive away.

That evening, we visited Agreco Farm, Crete’s top wedding venue and an absolutely charming setting for up to 150 weddings each summer. With its rustic charm, olive oil production, and breathtaking sunset views, it’s easy to see why. We enjoyed a short tour, some wine tasting, and a look at the farm animals before settling down for a feast of traditional Cretan dishes. It was an evening straight out of a scene from Mamma Mia!

Day 3: 

After another hearty breakfast, we kicked off our third day with visits to more incredible hotels. Our first stop was the Grecotel Caramel, a small boutique property with only 57 rooms. This intimate hotel has a charming village feel and is located by a beautiful beach, offering a luxurious escape. A modern pool area, exquisite dining options, and peaceful atmosphere make it a hidden gem for those seeking relaxation.

Next, we visited Aquila Rithymna Beach, a new addition to Jet2’s offerings for the upcoming summer. While not part of the Grecotel family, this large resort features amazing kids' clubs, an adult only section, and a soon to be built waterpark. The resort also prides itself on its environmental efforts, including the protection of sea turtle habitats.

In the afternoon, we explored the picturesque resort town of Rethymnon. With its charming harbour, quaint streets lined with shops, and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to soak up local culture. We indulged in gyros and Mythos beer before wandering through the town’s beautiful streets.

Our evening took us to the LUXME White Palace, another all-inclusive Grecotel property, but with a completely different vibe. Renovated in 2015, this hotel boasts infinity pools, Instagram worthy sea views, and modern rooms. Dining options include six a la carte restaurants, and we were lucky enough to enjoy a phenomenal meal at their Italian restaurant. With its wide range of activities, luxurious spa, and kid-friendly amenities, the White Palace offers something for everyone.

Day 4: 

On our final morning, we were treated to a traditional Cretan breakfast at the Grecotel Creta Palace. Words can hardly do it justice, it was an absolute feast! This delicious send-off was the perfect way to end our trip before our private transfer back to Heraklion airport.

Reflecting on my time in Crete, I can confidently say that the Grecotels are truly outstanding. Each hotel has its own unique style, but all share a commitment to luxury, impeccable service, and an authentic connection to Greek history and culture. The island of Crete itself is simply stunning, with friendly locals, incredible food, and endless opportunities for exploration. I will absolutely be returning to Crete, and I can’t wait to help customers choose the perfect Grecotel for their own dream holiday.

And for the record, my Weetabix after this just didn’t quite compare! 

Don't forget, if you'd like to learn more about any of these hotels, give us a call on 01253 40 11 33.