Our travel specialist, Rob Clark, recently returned from an incredible getaway in Crete, Greece. When we asked him if there’s anything he would have changed about his trip, he wished he had more time to unwind by the pool at the two stunning 5-star resorts and enjoy all the facilities for even longer. We are taking a look at the two amazing resorts he stayed at during his stay and discovering what he loves about each of them.

Discovering a hotel that perfectly embodies the spirit of its destination can be a rare find, but this  hotel does just that. With a modern design that captures local history and culture, it seamlessly blends into the rocky hillside, creating a stunning visual harmony with its surroundings.

Navigating the unique layout of this hotel takes a bit of getting used to, but once you find your way around, it becomes part of the charm. For those staying in higher-level rooms, the funicular or a golf buggy makes it easy to access your accommodations.

My room was spacious, clean, and modern, complete with a pool and breathtaking views. The rooms had everything you need. I highly recommend opting for a sea view room when staying here.

The kids’ club at the resort is meant to be amazing. Tucked away in a discreet part of the resort, it ensures other guest won’t be disturbed while providing two exciting areas complete with water slides. Parents can relax at the nearby bar, making it an ideal spot to keep the kids entertained. The family rooms are conveniently located close to this area.

The hotels large outdoor area is a highlight at this resort. It features two long pools, positioned next to each other. One is a standard pool, while the other is heated. These pools are a popular spot for guests.

Perched in an elevated location, the hotel boasts stunning sea and beach views, providing a picturesque backdrop for your stay. However, it’s worth noting that there isn’t a natural beach directly at the hotel. Instead, guests can enjoy a man-made beach at a nearby hotel, accessible via a short walk or a convenient shuttle service.

This first photo offers a glimpse of the area: Royal Senses sits right at the top, while the other hotel, along with its man-made beach, is visible at the bottom.

If I were staying at this hotel, I’d opt for the bed and breakfast option. The alternative is a buffet dinner every night, which might get a bit much. Instead, I recommend enjoying the à la carte dining at the hotel for a couple of evenings—it’s definitely worth it. The restaurants we tried were excellent. On other nights, venture out to eat locally. Although you’ll need a taxi, the hotel can book this for you, as well as providing fantastic restaurant recommendations.

Rob’s highlight: We got to see a great pottery demonstration, which was surprisingly entertaining! It lasted just 10 to 15 minutes, and their shop featured some beautifully unique items. Impressively, they still produce many of their products using traditional methods. Afterwards, we enjoyed a lunch outdoors, complete with delicious food and breathtaking views. The nearby town of Margarites is a charming, traditional village nestled in the mountains, offering an authentic experience.

If you are interested in this resort, contact our team today and we can start planning your amazing holiday.

For the second half of my trip I stayed at Numo Lerapetra Beach Resort Crete, tucked away in a lesser-known part of Crete, this hotel is a great option for an adults only retreat. Offering a modern yet authentic stay, like the Royal Senses, it seamlessly blends contemporary design with local charm.

The hotel gives off a very calming and relaxed vibe. Its layout flows well, with two main pools to choose from. One pool offers a quieter retreat, while the other serves as a lively social hub—perfect for unwinding and enjoying your day. Although the beach isn’t your typical picturesque scene, (featuring black sand) its still a great beach to spend the day at.

Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the well-equipped gym and outdoor workout area. The hotel also puts on cinematic evenings, enjoy a film under the stars at the outdoor cinema, and listen to the live music by the social pool, often featuring a saxophonist.

During my visit, I was impressed by the quality of both the food and drinks, as well as the service. Onsite you have three restaurants and two bars, so plenty of options for a more intimate resort.

The rooms are modern, clean, and comfortable. If you’re looking for something special, there are higher room categories available, including suites with private pools.

I would recommend opting for the Bed & Breakfast package. Try the buffet one evening and explore both a la carte restaurants, then consider dining out to experience the local cuisine. Keep in mind, you’ll need a taxi to travel beyond the hotel grounds.

During my stay at this resort, we were treated to some incredible experiences arranged by the hotel.

One standout day was our visit to the Lyrarakis Winery. It was a fantastic experience with a friendly host who made the day both informative and entertaining. As a family-run business, it offered a personal touch, and we enjoyed a delightful lunch among the vines while sampling their  wines.

We also explored several  historical sites, including the Arkadi Monastery, the Knossos Palace, and Spinalonga. For those interested in Greek history, these sites are must-sees. Although we spent a significant amount of time travelling by bus, with stops at charming traditional villages along the way, the journey was a great opportunity to discover the local areas.

For more information on any of the hotels mentioned, contact our travel experts.

Discover all of our Luxury Resorts in Crete.