7 Best Hotels in Crete, Greece

This glamorous resort redefines the luxury concept with a mighty wow factor—spread over the sides of Vathi Bay (with a private sandy beach), every room has breathtaking views, and many have private terraces and pools. All rooms are spacious and furnished in a modern, natural, and simple style. Split over many levels, it is a maze of paths and walkways reminiscent of a Greek village; albeit one with a world-class spa, fine-dining options, and a funicular to take you up and down to the beach. Reportedly one of the most expensive hotels ever built in Greece, it is worth every cent.

A renovation in 2022 leaves this special resort lovely and luxurious—set within immaculate, verdant gardens overlooking the Gulf of Mirabello at the edge of Agios Nikolaos, the surroundings are magical. Oak wood, striped fabrics, bouquets of bougainvillea, rough-hewn stone walls, multiple pools, and a sandy beach make this a delightful Cretan cocoon. Rooms and small bungalows, all with terraces and sea views, some with private pools, are stylishly furnished. Unlike some of its glitzier neighbors, it retains a sense of Greekness that is supremely genuine. What it does, it does very well. The large number of guests who return year after year is a testament to its appeal.

A couple of kilometers in front of freshwater Kournas Lake and right on a stretch of golden sand with views of the Cretan Sea out front and the White Mountains behind, Anemos commands the coastline just outside Georgioupoli. Supersize with six restaurants, four outdoor pools, six bars, and an activity area with water slides and sports facilities, the resort offers something for all ages. Accommodation varies with garden or sea views and some benefit from private or shared pools, but all rooms are tastefully decorated with bright furnishings and golden accents.

The original luxury resort hotel in Elounda, and one of Greece's most renowned, is set in 40 acres of gardens next to 1 km (½ mile) of seashore, and offers a dazzling array of delights. It features five restaurants; soothing whitewashed walls, shady porches, flagstone floors, and a guest-friendly variety of accommodations, from villas with their own swimming pools to large, gracious doubles in a hotel block. All have terraces or gardens and are beautifully appointed with Greek-influenced decor; the higher-priced villas are truly jaw-dropping, but some of the nicest are the hideaway villas in gardens above a stretch of shoreline reached by stone steps from your own waterside veranda.

For those who value privacy and comfort, this may be the ultimate Elounda destination—with less of a resort feel than its larger neighbors, it is a second home to those in search of relaxation and personal service. Family-run, all of the villas feature private pools, while the suites offer easy access to the main pool. These are exceptional accommodations with elegant and individual decoration. Perched on a hillside, there is a private beach served by shuttle bus 10 minutes away, but really this is a place to unwind in the impressive surroundings and take in the spectacular views of the gulf below.

This Relais & Chateaux property is one of the longest established in Elounda, and it blends charm and sophistication with a comfortably relaxed atmosphere. Quiet and calm, it suits those in search of seclusion. There is a classic theme throughout, with dark wood, rustic furnishings, and exposed stonework. Antiques, tapestries, and folk art are showcased along the marble-clad halls and lobbies. At its best, it offers an old-world charisma missing from some of its more flamboyant neighbors.

Previously known as the Blue Palace, the views overlooking the Gulf of Mirabello and Spinalonga, framed by traditionally influenced architecture, are worth the price of admission alone. Beautifully landscaped, there is a sense of drama to this intimate escape. The hillsides are a procession of low-walls, natural stone, and garden paths shaded by Cypresses and Olive trees. Gently tumbling down toward the white-pebbled private beach, well-presented rooms and bungalows are smart in neutral hues, with private pools adding a splash of color to many.