Domes of Elounda, Elounda, Crete

Experience Cretan life at one of the nearby villages, where you'll find traditional tavernas. The town of Agios Nikolaos is close by and you can hire a traditional caique (fishing boat) to explore Mirabello Bay.

The hotel is in elegant Elounda, which you can explore by car or boat.

By plane: London or Manchester to Heraklion takes around 4 hours, after which, a taxi takes an hour. Free parking available. Book flights to Heraklion.

Like most Cretan hotels, there's a slick design here with the use of natural materials throughout. Think wooden tables, pebble dash walls, stone floors and raffia beach umbrellas. It's craft-meets-chic and aesthetically pleasing.

As well as a choice of pools, you can enjoy a sports session outside with weights and mats (and spectacular mountain and sea views) or try the mobility session, which combines Pilates and yoga.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Beachfront
• Terrace
• Swimming pool
• Gym
• Spa
• Kids' club
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Luxurious accommodation ranges from suites to villas, and whichever you choose, expect privacy and panoramic views of Elounda Bay. Many rooms have a private pool or jacuzzi, while flowers and foliage perk up the scenery.

Room types: Suite, Premium Suite, Family Suite, Private Residence, Residence, Luxury Residence, Luxury Villa

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, balcony or terrace, pillow menu, TV, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi

Blend serves sultry steaks, while we loved beachfront Topos 1910; it was Cretan night, so dancers delighted us in local costume while we tucked into a traditional octopus dish. The spicy mussels were also sumptuous.

Blend: poolside steakhouse, open daily for lunch and dinner.

Topos 1910: fresh fish and seafood with sea views.

Makris: fine dining, adult-only, Greek and Cretan cuisine.