Description

One of the very best luxury spa resorts, Blue Palace showcases beautiful architecture and incredible views.

Overlooking the Gulf of Mirabello and the medieval fortressed isle of Spinalonga, the views from the Blue Palace are something special. And this popular large resort absolutely makes the most of its idyllic setting – style and charm exude from the stunning design, with curved arches that frame the scene and terrace pools that appear to float mid-air. A visit to the resort’s pièce de résistance – the spa – is a must. Stop here for ultimate relaxation at this beachfront haven of tranquillity where you can enjoy a traditional olive oil massage or soak in a thalassotherapy pool. Keen golfers might like to know that hotel guests get discounted green fees at The Crete Golf Club, around 30 minutes’ drive away. There’s also a real focus on creating authentic Greek moments with talks by weekly talks by local artists in the Arsenali Lounge Bar.

The hotel gently cascades down a hillside, but the usual inconveniences of an elevated property don’t apply here – there’s a glass lift that takes guests down to the long private white pebble beach, which looks out to a National Monument and has a wooden deck with loungers and parasols. The Isola Beach Club is a cool spot set among olive trees, with a DJ and top mixologists. Blue Palace is known for its à la carte dining. Asian and Italian cuisine areon offer here and there’s also a charmingly traditional taverna, the Blue Door, serving classic Greek dishes. Another place to sample organic garden-to-table Greek dishes is new restaurant, Anthós, which is set right next to where some of the ingredients are grown.

The rooms here have a neutral colour scheme and a balcony or terrace. For the best way to make the most of the views, opt for one of the bungalows with a private plunge pool. And if you like your pool water warm, be sure to choose a bungalow with a heated pool. At the top end there are the Island Luxury Suites with Private Pool. Each named after a Greek island, they are beautiful in design and have a separate living room plus patio with large heated pool, and guests here enjoy exclusive benefits.

Honeymoons,Spa

Key information
An idyllic hillside spot, a short walk from the charming traditional fishing village of Plaka where you’ll find local restaurants, bars and boutiques, and a short taxi ride from EloundaAirport transfer time:Approx. 1 hour private transfer from Heraklion airportRooms:251
Good to know
Minimum stay: 3 nights 21 Apr-30 Oct.

Accommodation information
251 rooms, bungalows and suites

Activities
• Step aboard the traditional ‘caique’ fishing boat for a romantic cruise* • Escape to a nearby island for a picnic*.

Dining
5 restaurants, 3 bars

What’s included
Champagne buffet breakfast at Olea.

Meal upgrade options (per person per night)
Half Board from £53 • Breakfast at Olea • Dine-around lunch or dinner in à la carte restaurants (selected dishes).