An Insider’s Guide to the 5 Best Spots in Crete

With Greece now open to vaccinated travelers from the U.S., Britain and EU member states and no quarantine required, it looks like those shimmering Aegean waters will be on the horizon this summer after all. 

And what better place to indulge in the region’s instinctive beauty than Crete? Lush in landscape yet generous in heart, the largest of the Greek islands is the perfect place to, as the American writer and artist Henry Miller wrote, “hush the mind, still the bubble of thought.” The fifth-largest island in the Mediterranean is home to it all: Minoan ruins dating back to the Bronze Age, dramatic canyons, secluded beaches and charming Old World cities. To help you find the best spots, we spoke to Dimitris Tzirakis, the Managing Director at luxury resort & spa Stella Island, for his insider tips and five favorite places on Crete.  Read on for more: 

Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa, on Crete

1. Stella Island Luxury Resort and Spa

“Majestic and magical, Stella Island is the kind of place that memories are made of. 

 A five-star experience in all aspects, the Resort is a free-spirited and blissful adults-only establishment designed to satisfy the most discerning traveler. Dazzling lagoons cover the premises, and there are plenty of gastronomical treasures too, from authentic Cretan cuisine drawing on flavors of the Mediterranean, to Asian fusion and Mexican fusion. To quench your thirst, look no further than our pool bars for the lushest cocktails and refreshing beverages. Or, if you’re looking for an enticing wellbeing experience, at Anassa Spa you will find rejuvenating face and body treatments. We also have an indoor heated pool, jacuzzi, sauna, and a hammam at your disposal to ensure the deepest relaxation.”

Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa, on Crete

Preveli beach. Photo: Error 420, via Unsplash

2. Preveli beach

“Marvel at one of the largest palm forests in Europe, take a hike on the gorge and enjoy the crystal clear waters of the Libyan Sea. This area has a unique, almost tropical look, which has certainly contributed to making this beach very famous and popular despite its remoteness. You can walk in the palm forest and bathe in the river if you wish. Do not miss the chance to visit one of the most famous monasteries on the island, Moni Prevelis.”

3. Chrissi Island

“It’s no coincidence that Chrissi means ‘golden’. A small paradise, it’s a miracle of natural beauty in the south, with stunning blue waters, golden sand and unique, naturally-formed large-fruited juniper (juniperus macrocarpa) forest, the largest in Europe. From the moment you arrive on Chrissi Island, you will be magnetized by the exotic natural landscape dominated by cedar, the golden sand, and the light aquamarine water. The rhythms of nature immediately give a newfound sense of liberation. A walk in the woods, swimming in crystal clear water combined with the soft smell of cedar and fresh oxygen, completes the holiday experience, offering you a deep relaxation feeling that becomes unforgettable. No wonder Chrissi Island welcomes more and more visitors from around the world every summer.” 

4. Plaka

“A charming traditional village with a cosmopolitan flair right opposite the island of Spinalonga. An absolute must for its clear blue waters and "catch of the day", as the local tavernas and restaurants are very famous for their delicious fresh fish.

Plaka lies amidst lush green surroundings but retains its natural beauty. There is a beautiful square where all the locals and tourists gather during the day. Taverns serve delicious food. The village offers access to the opposite islet of Spinalonga, one of the most interesting sights in Crete. Plaka is a lovely destination and one of the best opportunities to enjoy the natural landscape and some hiking adventures. Around the village, you will find numerous caves and pristine beaches. You can visit Spinalonga via boat from Plaka, Elounda, and Agios Nikolaos.”

Crete, by Marina T via Unsplash

5. Tris Ekklisies Beach

“Take the scenic ride to the south, enjoy the wild Cretan landscape and get ready to explore one smaller hidden turquoise gem. If you are looking for quiet and peaceful surroundings, as well as a family-friendly beach, this will suit you. It is a place where you can relax in a small Greek village, away from modern life. Here there is quiet, there are brilliant turquoise clear waters and monumental mountains rolling into the sea. From here you can see the Asterousia Mountains, swim, snorkel and laze on the various beaches. At the western end of the beach is a peninsula of black rock formations, said to look like a face. There are three small churches in the village, hence the name tris for three and ekklisies for churches.”

For Maison Benjamin members looking to plan their holidays, we can help arrange hotels, private accommodation and more for bespoke travel experiences and unforgettable experiences anywhere around the world. Please contact us to find out more. “You only live once, but if you do it right once is enough.”