Nestled on the east coast of the island with two private Blue Flag-awarded sandy beaches is this charming five-star resort that’s reached by flying directly to Heraklion International Airport. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with unbeatable panoramic views spanning the Cretan Sea and the hillsides of the Lassithi region. This resort is perfect for honeymooners wanting to get away from it all. Open from mid-April until the end of October, the luxurious yet laid-back vibe welcomes you the moment you enter. SUITE LIFE I was excited to stay at this relaxed retreat, home to 343 contemporary bedrooms, bungalows and spacious suites, some with private jet pools. The hotel’s best offerings for honeymooners include the Deluxe Junior Suite – Indoor Jacuzzi & Private Pool located in the main building and annex, and the Bungalow Junior Suite - Sea View in the Cretan-style village opposite which became my hideout. It opened on to a private sun-soaked terrace boasting beach views. The opulent two-bedroom villas, one being the Royal Villa – Private Pool & Jacuzzi are jewels in the resort’s crown. FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD Three beachside restaurants command prime position. At the main Amalthea seaside-chic restaurant, a delicious Cretan and Mediterranean buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner can be enjoyed overlooking the picturesque Mirabello Bay from the outdoor and indoor veranda. I was impressed by the fashionable setting and fine dining offering at the à la carte Elia restaurant which transforms into an Italian trattoria setting at night which looks oh-so romantic lit up. Here, I tucked into the gorgonzola salad to start followed by the delicious mushroom risotto dished up with impeccable service against the beach backdrop – the popular pizzas are a must-try! Inspired by the island’s culture, Kafenion is styled on a local taverna offering Cretan mezze made using some of the freshest and finest local ingredients. Cretan Dakos and leafy salads are tasty dishes from the cold mezze selection while grilled octopus and fried squid are on the hot mezze menu – the variety of traditional syrupy desserts isn’t to be missed here! At the relaxed Bay Grill & Bar, perched under tamarisk trees and open from June until October (weather permitting), freshly caught seafood and grilled meat and delicacies can be enjoyed, with the bar service creating colourful cocktails and more – I couldn’t resist the tasty pineapple-topped piña colada! Enjoying the view from the Thea Lobby Bar. Creating my own perfume with Kallia at Bioaroma Crete. Riding the waves with the resort’s many watersports options. Lunch with a view at Elia Restaurant. With love Editor Claire Ridley jetted to Wyndham Grand Crete Mirabello Bay in the popular coastal town of Agios Nikolaos FROM CRETE The new on-site water park is fab for family-moons! Learning about vino at the Wine Tasting Experience at SPILIA. Working out at the outdoor fitness area. 86
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