Greece has been one of the hot spots for summer travelers around the globe for decades, and the beauty of its islands and the amazing Aegean sea is well known. But if you, like many, have always avoided this European slice of paradise because of its busy crowds of tourists, think again. Greece is blessed with amazing weather – and we mean ‘an early morning dive in the sea’ kind of temperature – up until late October, which means you have plenty of time to organise your stay while avoiding the busy months.

If you prefer to spend July and August in Wales for an off-grid weekend, in a lavish hotel in London to discover the city through the eyes of a tourist, or in Manchester tracing Emmeline Pankhurst’s steps; the beginning or the end of summer can be the perfect time to escape to one of these amazing (and sun-filled) resorts on the island of Crete.  

Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa

Tucked on the north side of the island, overlooking the Mediterranean sea and the spectacular medieval fortress on Spinalonga isle, Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa is more than a resort; it’s a Greek temple of wellness and relaxation.

The opulent construction includes 142 pools, 251 luxury rooms (if we don’t count the 52 luxury suites and the four private villas), an unbelievable spa and thalassotherapy center, tennis courts and even a private chapel, in case you decide to tie the knot after watching the sun sinking into the shimmering sea. What could be more romantic than that, after all?

Domes Noruz

This adults-only small resort, located 10 minutes away from the old town of Chania, is the perfect option for those who want a good mixture of privacy, relaxation and fun from their holiday.

Start your day with a private yoga lesson overlooking the sea and a dive in the gorgeous swimming pool; continue with a champagne filled bubble bath in your own private tub before heading to stylish pool parties, night clubs and chic mediterranean restaurants. Get ready to party, the Greek way.

Royal Blue Resort & Spa in Crete

Set on the Cretan’s northern coast between the picturesque towns of Rethymnon and Heraklion, the resort sits directly on the water, with its own private bay and endless horizon of Cretan Blue.

Wish for it and it will appear - the feeling of being followed by your very own fairy godmother will never leave you at the Royal Blue. Perfect for the ones that need restorative peace and quiet, the resort has everything to satisfy even the fussiest traveler.

Private swimming pools and lush gardens will give you a soothing sense of calm but the private beach – and the panoramic view over the Cretan north coast – will conquer your heart. Beach towels, umbrellas, recliners, a private beach service and a beach bar are available but the amazing service has to be the icing on the cake. While you enjoy the sea breeze, the Royal Blue’s amazing staff bring cold towels and refreshing watermelon at regular intervals to the sun seeking guests. Ready to work on that tan?

Cavo Spada Resort & Spa

Newly reopened after a complete redecoration, Cavo Spada Resort & Spa is here to take your breath away. For the one seeking a relaxing stay, all rooms offer spectacular views onto the wide stretch of naturally sanded, milky white beachfront and a lapis blue Mediterranean Sea. 

Between a rejuvenating facial and a private yoga lesson, don’t forget to plunge into the amazing Greek history. Holding weekly wine and olive oil tasting classes, cooking lessons and cultural concerts, every stay is an immersion into the spectacular Cretan culture. You will learn something during this holiday, you have no excuses.

Daios Cove

Located in the North-East part of Crete, Daios Cove is a stylish beach resort nestled on a hillside, overlooking its very own private bay. Now, imagine spending your evenings looking at the bright orange sun melting into the Greek turquoise water. Better, imagine doing so staring at the horizon while sipping a delicious cocktail in a gorgeous infinity pool.

The best part? The Beach House, a brand-new and exclusive open-air restaurant and lounge. This little gem is located on the golden beachfront – perfect to enjoy some delicious Mediterranean food and indulge in elaborate cocktails in front of a crackling fire at sundown. Not a bad way to end the day.

Elounda Peninsula All Suite Hotel

Perched on the water’s edge, overlooking the sparkling Aegean Sea and the impressive Sitia mountains, Elounda Peninsula is a cretan ultimate luxury destination.

Marble bathrooms, sauna, massage room, indoor and outdoor pools; splendour is all around in this impressive resort. If luxury for you means privacy, one of the presidential villas will be your perfect secluded retreat. A private pool, garden and terrace, 24 hours room service and even the possibility to check in (and out) directly from your suite. Indolence has never been so lavish. 

Nana Princess

This luxuriously modern resort located on the north side of the island of Crete is the perfect retreat for those on a quest to complete relaxation.

The beautiful beachfront, jaw-dropping surroundings and sleek design are only the tip of the iceberg of what the Nana Princess has to offer. Enter the incredible Wellness Club, let the experts pamper you with their rejuvenating holistic therapies and forget about the hustle and bustle that you left at home. Ready to meet the new you?

Ammos Hotel

Ammos Hotel is a small and colourful boutique hotel, mixing a striking modern design with the dreamy atmosphere of this little beachfront paradise. Only five kilometres from the Venetian harbour of Chania – one of the must-visit adorable towns – Ammos is the perfect base for the ones that want to explore this magic island.

This mini-resort is located right on a golden, fine sandy beach where Ammos’ lovely staff will deliver fresh smoothies and cocktails, salads and souvlaki, straight to your sunbed. Lost in the middle of the idyllic jasmine gardens, pomegranates and geraniums, this family-run paradise will feel less like a hotel and more like being at home… just sunnier.

Amirandes

Styled after the sprawling Minoan palaces, once homes to the kings that ruled Crete, the architecture of Amirandes will amaze even the most spoiled travellers. The natural stone and wood elements embrace the water, which stars as the dominant element in this grandiose resort.

Taking a dive in your own private pool, having dinner surrounded by water or looking at where the peaceful lagoon meets the sea over a sandy beachfront – the relaxing sound of the sea will be your therapy during your stay. Just sit back and enjoy your session.

St. Nicolas Bay

A luxury boutique hotel perfect for a romantic getaway or simply for the ones that enjoy a privacy filled holiday. Every room has its own secluded balcony or terrace with a panoramic view of the shimmering sea.

Just minutes away - though a walk around the flower scented gardens - the private sandy beach but also amazing beach restaurants and the Poseidon Spa, the perfect temple to restore your body and your mind.

Pictures: Courtesy of the hotels