Crete, Greece

Why Crete?

It is always an absolute pleasure to be personally invited to visit and experience a hotel first-hand. In my opinion, there is simply no substitute for seeing a property with your own eyes, experiencing the service, sampling the cuisine, and truly understanding what makes it special. It is one of the most important aspects of my role, allowing me to confidently match the right hotel to the right client and provide genuine, personal recommendations based on real experience rather than brochures or websites.

Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, is home to a wealth of exceptional luxury hotels, from boutique hideaways and stylish adults-only retreats to expansive family resorts offering world-class facilities. During my recent visit, I was fortunate enough to stay at the stunning 5* Nana Princess Suites, Villas & Spa and explore its neighbouring sister property, Nana Golden Beach.

Located at the southernmost edge of Greece, Crete enjoys one of the longest holiday seasons in the Mediterranean, with warm sunshine stretching from early spring well into late autumn. Combining beautiful beaches, traditional villages, fascinating history, outstanding cuisine, and warm Cretan hospitality, it is easy to see why so many visitors return year after year.

• Stay at Nana Princess Suites, Villas & Spa if you're looking for understated luxury, privacy, and exceptional service. Many suites feature private pools, while larger villas make an excellent choice for families or groups.
• Explore the charming hillside villages of Piskopiano and Koutouloufari for authentic tavernas, traditional architecture and spectacular views.
• Visit the fascinating Knossos Palace, one of Greece's most important archaeological sites. ( make sure you take a hat when you visit !! )
• Spend time wandering around Heraklion, discovering its vibrant waterfront, museums, and excellent local restaurants.
• Take advantage of the excellent location between Hersonissos and Stalis, both within easy reach and at night light up so beautifully.
• Don't miss experiencing traditional Cretan cuisine – the island is renowned for some of the finest food in Greece.

Without doubt, what impressed me most was the peaceful atmosphere at Nana Princess. Despite the resort being busy, it never felt crowded, allowing guests to truly relax and unwind.

I also loved:

• The luxurious accommodation and private pool experience.
• The attentive yet unobtrusive service throughout the resort.
• The beautiful beachfront setting with private cabanas.
• The wonderful balance between luxury, tranquillity and easy access to nearby towns and villages.
• The genuine warmth and hospitality that Crete is famous for.

Thanks to its southerly location, Crete enjoys a long season:

• April - May: Ideal for sightseeing, walking and enjoying pleasant temperatures.
• June - September: Perfect for beach holidays, warm seas and long sunny days.
• October - early November: Still beautifully warm with fewer crowds and excellent value.

Crete is easily accessible from the UK with numerous direct flights operating from airports including London Gatwick, Heathrow, Stansted, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, and many regional airports.

Flight times are approximately 4 hours to either Heraklion Airport or Chania Airport making Crete an ideal choice for both a week's escape and longer stays.