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Times
06-08-2025
- Times
20 of the best all-inclusive hotels in Crete
The southernmost — and largest — of Greece's islands, Crete was at the vanguard when tourism took off in a big way in the 1960s and 70s. A myth-steeped idyll where the scent of wild thyme carries on warm sea breezes, rugged limestone gorges fall away into almost impossibly turquoise waters and Minoan ruins lie scattered between low-slung mountains, its rare natural beauty shaped by ancient rhythms was never a hard sell. The island's hoteliers, however, have been busy crafting new stories in recent years, with basic beachfront lodgings making way for the kind of barefoot-chic escapes that sees landscape-led design, elevated local cuisine and sustainability come to the fore. Among our selected properties is a stylish beachfront five-star just outside the lively city of Rethymno, a sprawling village-like Hersonisso resort complete with mini golf course, waterpark and kids' clubs, and a 1970s-founded pleasure palace — quite literally, having been built to evoke a Bronze Age Minoan palace — adjacent to a nature reserve right in peaceful Gouves. Their all-inclusive offerings leave tired, beige buffets in the dust: think Cretan olive oils and local Vidiano wines, art-filled suites and open-air cinemas under the stars. These are the best all-inclusive hotels in Crete. This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue ££ | 1 RESTAURANT | POOL | Best for city lights On the beach just outside of the lively city of Rethymno, this high-design, five-star all-inclusive hotel has rooms (including suites with private pools) that spiral like a nautilus shell around a lagoon pool with a palm tree in the central island. You'll find a water sports centre almost next door, two outdoor pools, a spa and indoor pool, and access for guests with disabilities throughout. The restaurant offers plenty to choose from all day, including Greek and Cretan specialities, and it's a 20-minute walk into Rethymno with its museums, markets and romantic Venetian old port lined with seafood restaurants. The hotel also hires out bikes.£££ | 7 RESTAURANTS | POOL | Best for superb service This is a huge all-inclusive resort that seems to effortlessly please everyone with its exceptional service. Laid out like a Cretan village, rooms, suites and villas come in soft grey and cream with typical Greek touches. The list of activities is long — an eight-hole mini golf course, a great spa, a large outdoor cinema and entertainment options galore. It's exceptionally family-friendly, with five children's pools, kids' clubs for ages 4 to 11 and teens, a waterpark and a long, sandy beach. Nearly all the food in its main and theme restaurants is produced in Crete, with vegetarian, gluten-free and lactose-free options. Read our full review of Creta Maris Resort £ | 4 RESTAURANTS | POOL | Best for tranquillity — and golf This hotel, located in the cool hills above Hersonissos near Crete Golf Club's beautiful 18-hole course, impresses with its seasonal ingredients and dishes that closely follow Cretan recipes. Suites come with kitchenettes and cushy king-size beds; the pools have plenty of sunbeds so you can forget that early morning lay-a-towel scrum to book one. The staff are helpful and good-humoured; activities include yoga, mini golf, tennis and stargazing nights with an astronomer. If you need something livelier, there's a free shuttle to Hersonissos with its beach and nightlife. £££ | 6 RESTAURANTS | POOL | Best for wellness Just south of Agios Nikolaos, this resort was blasted out of the cliffs, then rebuilt with the stone so all rooms and suites have sea views; most also have saltwater plunge pools. There's a stunning infinity pool, superb food and drink– all à la carte if you upgrade to the Residents' Club. And you can leave feeling better and fitter than ever, thanks to Daios Cove's vast range of wellness treatments (cryotherapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, vitamin infusions and more) at the Kepos by Goco spa and indoor/outdoor BXR gym. Read our full review of Daios Cove ££ | 8 RESTAURANTS | POOL | Best for choice This beachfront hotel is a five-minute walk from the village of Analipsi and is excellent at keeping everyone happy. Five freshwater pools are separated into family and adult zones, there are kids' clubs to suit every age from tots to teens and guests can choose between activities that range from water polo to archery. The standard doubles are slick and spacious, but you might want to splash out on a swim-up pool, or better still, a suite with a private pool. There's plenty of choice when it comes to dining too, whether you fancy a Greek taverna, Thai or Tex-Mex.£££ | 7 RESTAURANTS | POOL | Best for art lovers Grecotel's all-inclusive, family-friendly resorts were founded on Crete in the late 1970s, and Amirandes is one of their jewels. The architecture evokes a Bronze Age Minoan palace in marble, stone and wood, floating over a lagoon lined with palms and Minoan-style pithos jars. Knossos is recalled in the Labyrinth sunken bar and the Minotaur, a gourmet Italian restaurant decorated with original ceramics by Picasso. There's a nature reserve next door, a host of land and water sports, including a Padi diving centre, plus an Elixir spa, fitness classes, kids' clubs, designer boutiques, e-bikes and farm visits. ££ | 4 RESTAURANTS | POOL | Best for a Cretan experience Agapi ('love' in Greek) is the name of the woman who gave her life savings to her son to build this hotel five miles west of Heraklion in 1978. Over the decades, it has evolved into a luxury all-inclusive on a private, blue-flag beach (where sea turtles occasionally nest), with three pools amid the palm trees and gardens. Still family-run, the resort offers great food, much of it plucked from its own organic vegetable garden, and families are well catered for with activities and entertainment, including Cretan music and dance. Many guests are repeat visitors, so Agapi must be doing something right.£££ | 7 RESTAURANTS | POOL | Best for food and drink Set on a kilometre-long, blue-flag beach five miles east of Rethymno, this stylish, bright white resort has 22 swimming pools, including a huge one heated in April and October (with rollerskating staff supplying drinks) and a special family activity pool, plus swim-up rooms and deluxe suites with private pools. Guests can relax in 1960s style in the Hippie Wellness space, or exercise with fitness masters. The food here is tempting, with gourmet, Greek, Italian, Mediterranean and Asian restaurants, an annual guest restaurant, a wine 'library' and a crêperie/ice-cream parlour, patisserie and chocolate shop.£ | 3 RESTAURANTS | POOL | Best for large families A cheerful, eco-friendly resort on a blue-flag beach in Kalyves, just over five miles east of Chania, this well-run hotel has every kind of facility for families, whether your gang needs interconnected rooms, suites, apartments or maisonettes that sleep up to eight. On-site facilities include pools, kids' clubs, tennis, volleyball and a wellness spa for grown-ups; the hotel can also arrange a wide variety of excursions to some of western Crete's most beautiful beaches, including Balos and Elafonisi, walks down the Samaria Gorge and even a day trip to Santorini. The evening entertainment ranges from belly dancing and quiz nights to Cretan dances and karaoke: you'll never be bored. • Best hotels in Crete• Best things to do in Crete £££ | 8 RESTAURANTS | POOL | Best for activities Only half an hour's drive from Heraklion, this long-established favourite on a blue-flag beach is now more luxurious than ever. Immersed in gardens, most of the upscale suites and bungalows have sea views. You can book tables at seven à la carte restaurants, or primp in the hair and nail salon. The tangle of seven waterslides (with a mini waterpark for tots) is a big attraction, as are the sports club, with a gym and fitness classes, wellness club and tennis club; the hotel can also arrange mountain biking, a horse ride, a guided hike or a diving excursion. £££ | 7 RESTAURANTS | POOL | Best for fun Only minutes from Heraklion airport, this resort has luxurious rooms with shared pools and swim-up rooms, and suites and villas (sleeping up to six) with private pools, but think twice about coming here — because children have so much fun they often cry when they have to leave. For youngsters there are three pools, mini, junior and teen kids' clubs, a children's disco and superb staff who keep everyone handsomely entertained, while parents can try tennis, windsurfing, waterskiing, canoeing and diving, or just relax in the spa or enjoy the fun at the main pool bar.£££ | 5 RESTAURANTS | POOL | Best for pools This design-savvy resort west of Chania offers guests an ultra-all inclusive package (if you book an upscale room) that includes everything except private treatments at the spa. The Euphoria has entrancing views of the sea, a heated indoor pool and, among the outdoor pools, one of the largest in Greece. There's also a waterpark with super-speedy waterslides and a club for children aged 4 to 12 among dozens of other activities, plus evening entertainment for children and adults. There's plenty to explore nearby, including the beautiful Balos beach and the Samaria Gorge.£££ | 3 RESTAURANTS | POOL | Best for chilling out Not far from the Bronze Age palace of Malia, this very friendly, adults-only beachfront complex is part of the larger High Beach Hotels Collection, but kept serenely separate from boisterous families. It's Cretan-Minoan minimalist in style and the sandy beach offers the chance to swim to the pretty islet of Afentis Christos, which is topped with a snow-white church. The enticing Aegeo resort spa uses Cretan herbs and natural products; the all-day pizzeria and refined à la carte rooftop restaurant Elia (open from May to October, weather permitting) are big plus points.£££ | 6 RESTAURANTS | POOL | Best for luxury cocooning This striking adults-only resort east of Heraklion is designed for lovers, where Bali meets Crete with wooden decks and bridges, palm trees, hammocks, giant inflatable flamingos, swim-up rooms, others with outdoor Jacuzzis, and bungalows built over the water, all embraced by an enormous lagoon pool. There's a pampering spa, with treatments for couples, an indoor heated pool, tennis courts, fabulous cocktails, a lovely pool bar and exquisite dining at the à la carte restaurants included in the Spoil Me all-inclusive deal; if you stay longer than three nights there will be free transfers from the airport.£££ | 7 RESTAURANTS | POOL | Best for recreation This friendly resort on a blue-flag beach 30 minutes east of Heraklion takes its inspiration from baroque Venice, with luminous rooms, bungalows and suites in white and gold with turquoise accents. There's an indoor pool and spa, and plenty to keep you busy, with windsurfing and canoes, yoga and aerobics, art and swimming classes, tennis and excursions; offspring have their own mini club and children's disco. Among a fine selection of restaurants and bars, guests can try out the champagne, wine and sushi bar, lively nights with the DJ by the pool bar, and regularly organised special events.£ | 3 RESTAURANTS | POOL | Best for a bargain This five-star hotel, set in well-tended gardens, is is one of the smaller, quieter all-inclusive resorts along the sands east of Heraklion, but is set on one of the very best sandy beaches, with options including two-bedroom family rooms that sleep up to five. It has a wellness centre, a heated indoor pool, kids' club, and mini golf, plus vegetarian and gluten-free choices in the restaurants. The Orion restaurant features Crete's favourite firewater, raki — well worth a try.£££ | 5 RESTAURANTS | POOL | Best for splashy fun East of Rethymno, a ten-minute walk from the pretty fishing village of Panormo, this long-established, village-style complex features airy Aegean-style rooms, apartments and bungalows, including family accommodation choices, some with kitchens. Along with the beach, there's a palm-fringed lagoon pool and large, colourful waterpark, a kids' programme and another for teens, healthy food that kids like and a nightly disco for youngsters, all amid beautifully landscaped gardens.££ | 4 RESTAURANTS | POOL | Best for dramatic setting A five-star, adults-only hotel, the Seaside Resort swirls in tiers around a cliff that's half an hour's drive northwest of Heraklion, overlooking a sandy beach on one side. Natural colours dominate in the light, bright and contemporary design, with golf carts on hand to buzz you to your room or suite. There are several saltwater pools to choose from, tennis and padel courts, yoga and Pilates, and a striking sea cave spa with a heated pool and ice fountain. Dining choices include UMI, featuring Peruvian/Japanese fusion and the traditional Minoan Cretan taverna.£££ | 4 RESTAURANTS | POOL | Best for young children Midway between Chania and Rethymno, two of Crete's most beautiful cities, this shipshape, bright white resort enjoys a beautiful setting, located next to a river in a protected Natura 2000 zone. The wide, blue-flag beach with shallow water is usually safe for small children; the kids' pool, playground and club are all concentrated nearby. The rooms have a luminous riviera feel (some come with private or shared pools); the food and entertainment are excellent, and friendly, professional staff win kudos from all who stay.££ | 2 RESTAURANTS | POOL | Best for young couples Located within easy striking distance of lively Rethymno, this adults-only beach resort has a young, quirky, bohemian vibe and African-themed decor, with plenty of woodwork and wicker — there are even jungle suites, with ceiling fans, private gardens and outdoor Jacuzzis. Highlights include watching the sunset from the rooftop garden with a pool and a bar, and trying a wide array of street food from around the world (the staff are also good at packing picnic baskets, with a day's warning, if you want to go explore). A spa, yoga classes, concept store and films at the outdoor cinema are added bonuses. • Best villas in Crete• Best family hotels in Crete Additional reporting by Alexandra Whiting and Hannah Summers
New York Times
23-05-2025
- New York Times
$1.5 Million Homes in Crete, Greece
Rethymno | $1.53 million (€1.35 million) This three-story villa with a large courtyard is in the Old Town of Rethymno, on the northern coast of Crete, the largest and most populous of the Greek islands. Rethymno, with about 36,000 residents, faces the Aegean Sea and is the third largest city on Crete, situated between the larger metropolitan areas of Heraklion and Chania. Rethymno's Old Town dates mostly to the 16th century, when the Venetians controlled Crete and constructed a protective wall and the star-shaped Fortezza (the remains of which still exist) to protect the city from pirates. There are narrow alleys, mansions with Renaissance facades, picturesque arches and Venetian, Turkish and Egyptian monuments. The Venetian harbor, with its clusters of fishing boats, has a seafront promenade bordered by tavernas. The spires of Byzantine churches and the domes of historic mosques add flavor to Rethymno, which offers several museums and other cultural attractions. The Old Town is adjacent to the western end of the eight-mile beach on Rethymno Bay. Chania International Airport Ioannis Daskalogiannis is about 45 miles west of Rethymno, and Heraklion International Airport is about 50 miles east. Size: 2,077 square feet Price per square foot: $737 Indoors: The three-bedroom, three-bath villa has been refurbished to retain historic details, including exposed stone, niches and arches, while adding modern amenities. Located behind the notable Rimondi Fountain in Rethymno's Old Town, the property has a large landscaped courtyard with an entrance that leads to an open living and dining/kitchen area. The kitchen has white cabinets and a white-painted wood ceiling framed by an arch. A wood staircase ascends to the second floor, where there are two en suite bedrooms. One bedroom has a balcony, and the other has a large traditional fireplace. The third floor has the primary en suite bedroom and a large terrace with views of the surrounding city. The house has air-conditioning and a security system. Outdoor space: The house has an expansive courtyard with bougainvillea and an orange tree, as well as two balconies on the second floor and a large terrace with a pergola on the third floor. Costs: Annual taxes are about 800 to 1,000 euros ($900 to $1,125). Typical closing costs, which include transfer tax and fees for the notary, lawyer, engineer and real estate agency, are 8 to 10 percent of the purchase price. Contact: Despina Laou | Greece Sotheby's International Realty | +30-210-968-1070 Plakias | $1.47 million (€1.3 million) These two contemporary villas, one with three bedrooms and one with two bedrooms, make up a self-contained complex near the tourist resort of Plakias, on the southern coast of Crete. The villas, perched in the hills with views of the Mediterranean Sea, sit about a half mile from Plakias, a resort area on Crete's southern coast where the main beach abuts mountains and sheer cliffs. Monasteries and traditional mountain villages, such as Myrthios and Asomatos, attract travelers, as do the gorges of Kotsifos and Kourtaliotis and the palm-fringed lake of Preveli with its junglelike forest. The town of Plakias is has a marina, banks, medical practices, pharmacies and gas stations. Entertainment options abound, from tavernas and hotels to businesses offering water sports, scuba diving and bicycle rentals. There is frequent bus service to Rethymno, which is about 20 miles north of Plakias. Chania International Airport Ioannis Daskalogiannis is about 60 miles northwest of Plakias, and Heraklion International Airport is about 70 miles east. Size: 2,906 square feet Price per square foot: $506 Indoors: The two villas, one above the other, are connected by a stairway. Each has a swimming pool, floor-to-ceiling openings onto the pool areas, and skylights to illuminate the interiors. The upper villa is on three levels, and includes three en suite bedrooms, an open-plan kitchen and a living area with a fireplace. The kitchen has wood cabinets, an island and stone countertops. The two-story lower villa has a double-height living area that opens out to the pool and an open-plan kitchen with sleek black cabinets and an island. There are two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, including one with a large window overlooking the living area. Both villas are sold furnished and have air-conditioning. Outdoor space: The property has two swimming pools and several patios, balconies and terraces, including on the rooftops. Some are shaded by pergolas, including one with a barrel sauna. There is parking for four cars. Costs: Annual taxes are about 800 to 1,000 euros ($900 to $1,125). Typical closing costs, which include transfer tax and fees for the notary, lawyer, engineer and real estate agency, are 8 to 10 percent of the purchase price. Contact: Despina Laou | Greece Sotheby's International Realty | +30-210-968-1070 Ligaria | $1.47 million (€1.3 million) This six-bedroom, six-bath villa, built in 1986 and renovated in 2023, is in the hills near Ligaria, a resort village on the northern coast of central Crete. Ligaria is primarily known for its sheltered beach, situated in a turquoise bay protected from the frequent northwest winds, and offers activities including snorkeling, kayaking, jet skiing, paddleboarding and scuba diving. There are hotels, tavernas, beach bars and supermarkets. The nearby village of Agia Pelagia, also a resort area, has several hundred residents and a fuller range of services, while the city of Heraklion, with about 180,000 residents, is 30 minutes away. Ligaria is surrounded by traditional villages and the ruins of ancient civilizations. Larger cultural sites, such as the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the Palace of Knossos, are within 30 minutes, as is Heraklion International Airport. Size: 5,490 square feet Price per square foot: $268 Indoors: The main entrance is on the second floor. Doors open to a large open space with a dining area, a living area with a fireplace and doors to a terrace, and a second split-level living area that also opens to a terrace. The eat-in kitchen has royal blue cabinets and opens to a veranda for al fresco dining. Stairs descend to the first floor where the primary en suite bedroom opens to a large terrace. This level also has another bedroom, a gym, a linen room, a utility room and a garage, as well as access to the outdoor kitchen. The third floor has four en suite bedrooms. The villa is furnished and has air-conditioning. Outdoor space: The property, on slightly more than an acre, has a swimming pool, a barrel sauna and a covered outdoor kitchen and barbecue area. The indoor kitchen has a veranda for dining, and the primary bedroom has a large terrace. There are numerous terraces off the other bedrooms with views of the Aegean Sea. The property has a landscaped garden and garage parking. Costs: The annual property tax is about €1,216 ($1,375). Typical closing costs paid by the buyer on a home sale, which include transfer tax and fees for the notary, lawyer, engineer and real estate agency, are 8 to 10 percent of the purchase price. Contact: George Mouchsiadis | Grekodom Development | +30-697-250-4496
Jordan Times
22-05-2025
- Climate
- Jordan Times
6.1-magnitude quake hits off Greek island of Crete — USGS
By AFP - May 22,2025 - Last updated at May 22,2025 ATHENS — A 6.1-magnitude earthquake rattled the Greek islands of Crete and Santorini on Thursday, the US Geological Survey said, with no major damage immediately reported. The strong quake struck 82 kilometres northeast of Crete's capital Heraklion at 0319 GMT at a depth of 68 kilometres, the USGS said. AFP journalists said it was felt as far away as Athens and Egypt. State television ERT said many residents in the Cretan regions of Rethymno and Lasithi were woken by the quake just after 6:00 am and quickly exited their homes as a precaution. The tremor "occurred at a great depth and there is no particular reason for residents to worry," Athanassios Ganas, general director of Research at the Geodynamics Institute of the National Observatory of Athens, told the station. State news agency ANA said fire department units in Crete had been placed on general alert, with vehicles patrolling to assess the situation. The mayor of Heraklion, Alexis Kalokerinos, told ERT that there were no particular problems in the city and that closing schools would not be necessary. The quake struck just over a week after a 6.1-magnitude tremor hit near the island of Kasos near Crete, and was felt in the outlying area. The region, popular with tourists, has been hit with multiple tremors in recent months, prompting schools in Santorini and neighbouring islands to temporarily close. Thousands of earthquakes, mainly of low magnitude, have been recorded since January between the islands of Santorini, Amorgos, Ios and Anafi in the Cyclades group southeast of the Greek mainland. They have not caused casualties or significant damage. Located where the African and Anatolian tectonic plates converge, the Aegean Sea is often hit by quakes. But the region had not experienced a phenomenon of such magnitude since records began in 1964, experts say.
Telegraph
09-05-2025
- Telegraph
Luxury experiences in the heart of the Greek islands
If 'all-inclusive' once meant a basic buffet restaurant and a few watered-down drinks, today that couldn't be further from the truth – and Grecotel's LUXME concept is the perfect example of an all-inclusive offering that goes above and beyond your expectations. The group's collection of LUXME resorts across Crete, Corfu, Rhodes and other Greek islands put the emphasis on high-end experiences and as an added bonus, children up to 12 stay free. We've rounded up some of our favourite LUXME spots for families as well as couples after a luxury Greek island stay. An elegant retreat on Crete's north coast Set in postcard-pretty Rethymno, on the north coast of Crete, Grecotel's LUXME White is all about airy elegance, with crisp, white hues throughout. Several of its rooms are swim-up and there are spacious family options – including a handful of new, ultra-plush Yali Seafront Villas with their own pools. The resort sits on its own beach with a tranquil adults-only area and there's a sprawling, palm-fringed pool and a new family activity pool to cool off in. PADI courses, water skiing, beachfront yoga, wine masterclasses and e-bike tours are among the activities on hand. If you'd rather indulge with a spa treatment, drop little ones off at the kids' club and head to the Hippie Spa. On the food front, there are seven restaurants – among them adults-only tasting menu venue The White and Lobsteria, where creative lobster dishes are served on an ocean-facing terrace. Finish it off with a sweet treat at the pâtisserie and chocolaterie, before dancing the night away at one of the renowned LUXME White Parties. Deluxe dining and standout facilities in Rhodes A 100m-long pool, a shiny new beach club, lush gardens and excellent fitness facilities are among the lures of LUXME Dama Dama, which sits in the picturesque beach town of Kallithea in Rhodes. A 15-minute drive from Rhodes's medieval Old Town, it makes an ideal base for island explorations – if you can tear yourself away from the sweep of amenities. For families, there's a 700 sq m pool complex with water slides, a Blue Flag beach and a raft of activities at the kids' club. Adults can enjoy fitness sessions at a new Yoga & Pilates Club, alongside an indoor gym, sauna and glass-roofed pool. Beyond this, you'll find water sports, island tours, cooking classes and more. If all that works up an appetite, you won't be disappointed – nine bars and restaurants span the gamut from adult-only tasting menus to Greek, Italian, Japanese and beyond and, under a new dine-out concept, you can enjoy a complimentary meal at a selected local taverna. Accommodation includes rooms, apartments and suites with fresh décor and a palette of blue, gold and coral inspired by the island's vibrant colours. And vibrant they are; expect sunsets painting the sky in peach and magenta as you explore this striking island. Fun at heart For a holiday that really puts the focus on fun, look to LUXME Costa Botanica, which perches on a gold-sand beach in Acharavi, on Corfu's north coast. On top of a brand-new spa centre with a huge indoor pool, hammam and Jacuzzi, this recently renovated property has a 40,000 sq m Aqua Park; here you'll find slides and lazy rivers meandering through the palms, adding to the resort's four outdoor pools. There's also a cutting-edge gym with an all-new boxing ring plus fitness classes, a tennis academy, new padel courts, basketball and water sports. If you're looking to explore the area, hire an e-bike or e-scooter to explore the surrounding trails, head out on a tour of the local villages or take a trip to colourful Corfu Town. Keep younger ones entertained with a trip to the Botanist Lab to see the resort's edible garden. When hunger strikes, you'll have 12 bars and restaurants to choose from, including Botanica Fine Dining, which serves wine-paired farm-to-table dishes and a collection of elegant degustation menus offering a flavourful journey through Corfian cuisine. Expect standout service and a warm, friendly welcome that's quintessentially Greek to the core. British Airways Holidays packages include a generous checked baggage allowance for each customer and come with full Atol protection for complete peace of mind. Secure your all-inclusive holiday to Grecotel Resorts with a low deposit and enjoy flexible payments until you fly*.
Telegraph
08-05-2025
- Telegraph
Some of the best beach hotels for a Greek getaway
From lush peninsulas to idyllic islands, Greece is a dreamy destination for beach lovers. Here, everyone can find their perfect stretch of sand, from sweeping beaches to secluded coves. And when you're not diving into crystal-clear waters, you can combine beach time with gorgeous old towns, atmospheric ruins and incredible food. Whatever kind of breakaway you're looking for, British Airways Holidays has the hotel that's right for you, and you can enjoy direct British Airways flights to these Greek hotspots. Travelling with British Airways Holidays also comes with benefits that include low deposits*, Atol protection and generous baggage allowances. Pure elegance Grecotel is one of Greece's leading luxury hospitality groups, proudly celebrating 50 years of excellence. These 40 properties are spread across 15 iconic destinations in Greece and can be found on some of its most enviable coastlines. They offer the epitome of beachfront elegance, with chic, contemporary design and sweeping sea views, all wrapped up in natural landscapes. The upscale all-inclusive concept focuses on pampering experiences and impeccable service, while exquisite à la carte and buffet restaurants offer unforgettable gourmet experiences. LUXME White, Rethymno, Crete Set on Crete's northern shores, this luxury resort offers brand new seafront suites with private pools and luxury swim-up rooms. Lounge around sparkling zero-edge pools or escape to the half-mile curve of sand for unforgettable beach days. Bliss out at the serene Hippie Spa, and enjoy music, dancing and festivities that capture kefi – the Greek concept of joy and euphoria. LUXME Dama Dama, Kallithea, Rhodes Indulge in a luxurious beachside getaway at this stunning coastal resort. Choose from expansive suites and bungalows with serene gardens overlooking the Blue Flag beach then cool off in the picture-perfect Grand Pool. There are premium culinary choices for you to savour at the six restaurants, including the stylish Beach Club, and two bars, and you can let the children run wild at the Grecoland Kids' Club, with water slides, shows and parties. LUXME Costa Botanica, Acharavi, Corfu Circled by lush gardens, olive groves and the silken sands of Acharavi beach, this resort enjoys a breathtaking location. When you're not relaxing at the Beach Club, you can make the most of the new spa and innovative gym, which has its own boxing ring. That's not all – there are 12 restaurants and bars to choose from, a water park and a tennis academy where you can work on your game. Luxury without limits Sprinkled across some of the most coveted coastlines in Greece and Spain, Ikos Resorts offers gorgeous accommodations, menus designed by Michelin-star chefs and complimentary Tesla car hire for local adventures. The Ikos Kissamos, Crete's first Ikos resort, will be available for bookings later this year with British Airways Holidays, and Ikos Porto Petra in Mallorca offers an Iberian hue to this high-end experience. Ikos Dassia, Corfu This peaceful haven on the island of Corfu offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea. There are seven pristine pools that you can dive into, or you can stretch out on the sublime sands of the Blue Flag beach or relax at the Anne Semonin Spa. Epicurean delights are waiting to be discovered at the seven à la carte restaurants, and the children's football academy will make sure the little ones have the holiday of a lifetime. Ikos Olivia, Halkidiki This stylish, newly renovated resort is set among ancient olive trees and shady pines on a stunning beachfront overlooking Toroneos Bay. Exquisite Mediterranean flavours are served up at the all-new The Garden and Asian-inspired delights are the specialty at Anaya, all paired with a selection of delicious wines. For sundowners with unforgettable views, the new Potami Bar is the place to be. A world of elegance The enchanting island of Rhodes is home to three distinctive Atrium Hotels & Resorts hotels in three different destinations. They are all united by their dedication to creating a world of unparalleled luxury, so you can rest assured knowing you'll enjoy authentic Greek hospitality, premium all-inclusive stays and exquisite cuisine. Atrium Platinum Luxury Resort & Spa, Rhodes Situated on the captivating west coast of Rhodes, just outside Unesco-listed Rhodes Town, this idyllic resort combines dreamy sunset views and a gorgeous pool-dotted sanctuary with access to the island's cultural highlights. All rooms offer full or partial sea views, and suites come with private pools. Gourmet food is served at the five restaurants and you can toast your stay with premium drinks at the three bars. Atrium Palace Thalasso Spa Resort & Villas, Rhodes Located on sparkling Kalathos Bay, just a short drive from the historic Acropolis of Lindos, this gorgeous resort offers the perfect blend of serenity, adventure and exploration. Renovated rooms, suites and private villas are inspired by Greek architecture, while the palm-fringed pools and Blue Flag beach create the ambience of a summer oasis. Atrium Prestige Thalasso Spa Resort & Villas, Rhodes Nestled on the beachfront of the south-east coast of Rhodes, this sophisticated spot is perfect for privacy and tranquillity. Choose between airy rooms, suites, bungalows and villas, some of which come with private pools. Tempting culinary delights can be found in abundance at the six restaurants which offer a range of different global cuisines. If you're seeking adventure, nearby Prasonisi offers Europe's most exhilarating windsurfing and kitesurfing destinations.
