My husband and I were lucky enough to spend three delightful weeks in September in Crete. Our first stop was Elounda, which is located along the northern coast of Greece, in the municipality of Agios Nikolaos. Nestled in a bay, the town offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the nearby island of Spinalonga. Elounda, known for its sandy beaches, rocky coves, and a rugged coastline, is known for its luxury resorts.
Discovering Elounda: A Serene Coastal Gem
During our 3-week stay on Crete, we stayed in Elounda, Rethymno, and Chania. Elounda was definitely the most quiet and serene. It is a place you would vacation when you’re in need of some quiet and relaxation. Elounda has beautiful views out to Spinalonga island is worthy of a visit. It’s a former leper colony and popular tourist attraction, famous for its Venetian fortress. If you can pull yourself off of your sun lounger, you’ll find ancient ruins, hiking trails, and beaches nearby.
Choosing the Perfect Stay: Domes of Elounda vs. The Blue Palace Elounda
I went back-and-forth trying to decide between Domes of Elounda and The Blue Palace Elounda. Both looked absolutely beautiful. After reading loads of reviews, it was the oversized rooms at Domes that tipped the scales.
Check-in was seamless, as a bellman met us promptly and took our luggage, while valet services parked our car. After a long day of traveling, we felt tired and appreciated the staff offering us a seat and a welcome drink. As part of the check-in process, guest services provided us with a brief overview of the resort’s facilities and amenities. After, we were whisked off to our accommodation in the Cretan hillside.
Our Private Villa Experience
Our private villa room was pure perfection! There was a note with a bottle of wine and chocolates awaiting us. I always find this to be such a nice touch. The villa was very spacious and elegantly decorated. The attention to detail was evident in every aspect of the room, from the rain shower to luxurious linens to high-quality toiletries.
The highlight of the villa was the private pool. Given that our luggage was lost by the airlines, the fact that the outdoor space had total privacy allowed me the ability to lay in the sun in my undergarments until I was able to purchase a new swimsuit. A girls got to do what a girls got to do! It was serene and surprisingly spacious, featuring two sun loungers, a dining table under a pergola, and a kitchenette stocked with the basics, as well as a microwave and refrigerator. We thoroughly enjoyed this amazing outdoor space. Moreover, it provided a perfect retreat and added to our overall experience.
There are several options for dining on property
We enjoyed breakfast every morning at Thólos restaurant while gazing out at the Mediterranean Sea. While Marriott typically reserves complimentary breakfast for guests with status, Domes of Elounda provides it to all guests. Their buffet has an impressive array of options, from cooked to order waffles and omelets, to traditional American breakfast items, European favorites like baked pastries and sliced meats, as well as healthy selections such of fresh seasonal fruit and yogurt with granola.
The one and only dinner we had on the property was at the outdoor Core food truck. The food was just okay, but the casual vibe and live band was just what we were looking for. There are several dining options within the hotel, as well as many great local options within a short drive.
Be sure to grab a glass of champagne from Breeze Beach Bar. Take in one of the many amazing sunsets and the heavenly view.
All in all, we found our stay at Domes of Elounda to be exceptional. Whether it was taking in the beautiful views of Spinalonga or the shimmering waters of the Aegean Sea, Domes created the perfect backdrop for us to enjoy a relaxing vacation. The facilities are top-notch. Additionally, the staff are dedicated to providing a world-class hospitality experience. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, this resort is an excellent choice. See video of our 1-bedroom suite with pool accommodation below.
To read about our other stays in Crete, check out my reviews of Domes Zeen Chania and Casa Negro in Rethymno.
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