Exploring Crete: Greece's largest island
The island of Crete is the largest of all Greek islands and a popular holiday destination year after year.
Crete is a delightful mix of golden sandy beaches and small, hidden coves for those who know where to look. The hillsides are awash with rolling olive plantations and cooling citrus groves. Crete has an abundance of impressive, rugged mountain ranges, hidden churches, and steep gorges that only the adventurous can explore.
If you’re considering choosing a Crete holiday then the variety of resorts Crete has to offer is second to none. The island is split into two main parts where the main airports are located and you get the majority of flights into Crete to the Chania and Heraklion airports. If you choose Chania airport, then you have the west of the island at your disposal, starting off with Chania and Rethymnon for a mix of the old and the new, both bustling cosmopolitan towns with so much to see and do.
Move further west and find the charming resorts of Paleohora, Agia Galini, and the more lively town of Platanias. Move further around the coast to the southwest and you will find the authentic Cretan villages of Loutro and Sfakia, which stick closely to the traditional way of life. On the west of the island, you will also find the stunning Samaria Gorge as well as one of the most photographed beaches in Crete; Balos Beach and Gramavoussa Peninsula.
On the east coast of Crete, you will find Heraklion airport, and the villages and towns surrounding it offer something for everyone. Starting off in Heraklion the capital city full of wonderful hotels, designer shops, and bars mixed with more traditional stalls and markets. Heraklion is the home to the main museum on the island where you will find almost all of the key archaeological finds from Knossos Palace and Malia Palace.
Further down the eastern coast, find quiet, relaxing holiday resorts like Kokkini Hani, Gouves, Gournes, and Analipsi, with a wide choice of self-catering hotels all the way up to all-inclusive resorts like the Thomson Sensatori hotel.
Further down you get to the more lively towns of Hersonissos and Malia, which are now famous throughout Crete for the huge clubs, beach parties, and exclusive events that have holidaymakers partying to dawn.
The resorts that are popular if you have a family you want to keep entertained have to be Stalis and Sissi, both with wonderful golden sandy beaches and bars that stay open until a decent time and a wealth of classic Greek Tavernas and International cuisine restaurants.
Around this area, two of the main water parks sit nestled in the hills, WaterCity near Anopolis and AcquaPlus near Hersonissos, both are popular choices for couples, families, and groups alike. Also near WaterCity, you will find the small village of Anopolis, where organized Greek Nights with free-flowing wine, unlimited Greek food, and Greek dancing are held almost nightly.
Down the coast, you will find the beautiful resort of Elounda, where the stars of Hollywood choose to take their holidays. In the bay of Elounda is the haunting island of Spinalonga, and with cheap daily boat trips on offer, it’s well worth visiting.
Along the coast, you will find Agios Nikolaos with its famous bottomless lake, charming cafe culture, and relaxing atmosphere. To the north sit the towns of Ierapetra and Sitia, both offering easy access to Vai Beach and Chrissi Island, two of the most popular beaches in Crete.
Where To Stay in Crete
Welcome to Crete. Plan your Crete Holidays with one click. Your easy guide to the best holiday in Crete Island providing Hotels, Studios, and Apartments, Villas, Car, Direct reservations, surround videos.
Chania region
Located in Kolymvari, 250 m from Rapaniana Beach, Euphoria Resort - All Inclusive provides accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre.
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The accommodation offers 5-star accommodation with a sauna and children’s playground. Bike hire and car hire are available at Euphoria Resort – All Inclusive and the area is popular for golfing and cycling. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk, room service and currency exchange for guests.
Offering views of the old port and the lighthouse, Domus Renier Boutique Hotel - Historic Hotels Worldwide is situated in Chania Town, in the heart of the old Venetian Harbour, 100 m from Maritime Museum Of Chania.
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Each room at this hotel is air conditioned and is equipped with a smart flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Some units feature a seating area to relax in after a busy day. You will find a coffee machine in the room. All rooms have a private bathroom. For your comfort, you will find bath robes and slippers.
Scala de Faro is located in the Chania Old Town in Chania Town, 100 m from the Archaeological Museum of Chania.
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All rooms come with a TV. Certain units have a seating area to relax in after a busy day. Enjoy a cup of coffee while looking out at the sea or mountain. Rooms are equipped with a private bathroom fitted with a shower or bath. For your comfort, you will find bathrobes, slippers and free toiletries.
Located at Chania Venetian Harbour, Ambassadors Residence is a restored 1890’s house. It features elegant and individually decorated accommodation with free WiFi. Chania City Centre is a 5-minute walk away.
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Fitted with stylish items and stone details, all air-conditioned rooms and suites of Ambassadors have a seating area with a flat-screen, satellite TV and a minibar. Most units come with Cretan Sea and old harbour views, while others with a spa bath and a terrace or a balcony. Bathrobes, slippers and toiletries are included in the private bathroom.
Aloe Boutique & Suites in Almirida provides adults-only accommodation with a restaurant, a bar and a terrace. Among the facilities at this property are room service and a concierge service, along with free WiFi throughout the property.
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The hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, evening entertainment and a 24-hour front desk. The units come with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a fridge, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer and a wardrobe. At the hotel every room includes a private bathroom with free toiletries.
The 5-star Serenissima Boutique Hotel is situated in a 15th century Venetian house in the scenic town of Chania 100 m from the beach. It offers elegant suites with free WiFi 30 m from cafes and shops.
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Featuring arched ceilings and traditional furnishings with modern touches, all accommodation types at the Serenissima Boutique Hotel have a seating area with flat-screen TV and sofa. Each has a dining area and a stylish bathroom with bath and luxury toiletries. A pillow menu is available.
Offering private access to a sandy beach in Agioi Apostoloi, Domes Noruz Chania is the first Greek resort to be an honoree for its interior and exterior design.
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It boasts a state-of-the-art spa centre and 2 pools overlooking the azure waters and the surrounding islands. Fine champagne and fresh seafood can be enjoyed at the poolside bar. All accommodation types at Domes Noruz Chania have extended outdoor living areas with a variety of amenities, lounge furniture, outdoor bathtubs and either hot tub or plunge pool.
Set 150 m from the sandy beach of Agia Marina, Galini Sea View offers elegant, 5-star accommodation, an outdoor and an indoor pool. It has 2 bars and a restaurant with panoramic Cretan Sea views.
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The air-conditioned rooms open out to a furnished balcony, some overlooking the sea. They are fitted with a satellite LCD TV and mini fridge. In the modern bathroom, guests will find slippers, bathrobes and free toiletries.
Set in Georgioupolis, close to Kournas Beach, Pepper Sea Club Hotel offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool and a bar.
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With free WiFi, this 5-star hotel has a shared lounge and a garden. The accommodation provides a 24-hour front desk, room service and currency exchange for guests. All guest rooms come with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a kettle, a bath or shower, a hairdryer and a desk.
Located in Kolymvari, 350 m from Rapaniana Beach, CHC Galini Palace provides accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar and a terrace. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk as well as free WiFi.
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A buffet breakfast is available daily at the hotel. Tavronitis Beach is 2.4 km from CHC Galini Palace. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 39 km from the accommodation.
Agios Nikolaos region
Boasting a stunning location beside the water’s edge, Minos Beach Art Hotel features an art gallery and an excellent health and beauty centre, along with complimentary breakfast and parking.
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Situated just 800 m from the centre of Agios Nikolaos, Minos Beach Art Hotel offers a variety of accommodation, ranging from suites to exclusive villas. Each one is well-appointed with home comforts, including LCD TV and some feature spa baths.
With magnificent sea views from a rocky headland above Aghios Nikolaos Bay, this adults-only resort blends together all the ingredients for a relaxing holiday.
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Just 2 km from the town centre, this hotel with a beach-side location offers you a pleasant site from which to enjoy the north-east coast of Crete and the capital of the Lasithi province.
Wyndham Grand Crete Mirabello Bay enjoys a tranquil beachfront location in Agios Nikolaos. This 5-star hotel features an outdoor pool, full-service spa and 9 restaurants.
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All guest rooms, bungalows and maisonettes at Wyndham Grand Crete Mirabello Bay are thoughtfully appointed with a private balcony, bright décor, and modern amenities. Some maisonettes offer access to a shared pool. Free WiFi is available throughout.
Heralkion region
Built in 1925 and classified as a monument, the GDM Megaron is located in the heart of Heraklion, overlooking the old Venetian port and within walking distance of all the major sights of the city.
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The 58 elegantly decorated rooms and suites feature the latest facilities such as private telephone line with voice mail, satellite TV, complimentary WiFi, safe, mini bar, tea & coffee facilities, soundproof windows, sprinklers and smoke detectors. The bathrooms are equipped with a TV, a telephone, a hairdryer, slippers, bathrobes and luxury toiletries. Additional amenities, such as spa bath, are provided in some rooms and suites.
Located in the heart of Heraklio Town, Legacy Gastro Suites is a 5-star hotel with a design inspired by the urban decor of the 50s. The hotel has an all-day restaurant serving a selection of original Greek recipes based on local ingredients, and offers suites with a balcony overlooking the sea.
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Drawing inspiration from the artistic heritage of Nikos Kazantzakis, Vincezos Kornaros and Domenikos Theotokopoulos, the suites combine classical decor with modern amenities. Each includes a seating area, a desk and a flat-screen TV. A food station supplied with traditional Greek products and a selection of Greek wine and spirits can be found inside the suites.
Located in Malia, 500 m from Central Malia Beach, Ammos Beach Hotel provides accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar and a terrace. Among the facilities at this property are a tour desk and ticket service, along with free WiFi throughout the property.
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The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk, room service and currency exchange for guests. At the hotel, every room has a balcony. At Ammos Beach Hotel each room includes air conditioning and a flat-screen TV. The accommodation offers a buffet or American breakfast.
Knossos Beach Bungalows Suites Resort & Spa lies on its private sandy beach. It offers 3 swimming pools and 3 restaurants. The beach is equipped with loungers, umbrellas and a bar.
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The whitewashed bungalows and suites offer sea-view terraces spread amidst beautiful gardens. Each air-conditioned unit has floor-to-ceiling double-glazed windows and satellite TV. Guests can relax on a sun bed beside the pool with a cool drink, and admire the Aegean Sea. Yoga and pilates sessions, as well as a variety of rejuvenating massage treatments, can be also arranged.
Within 200 m from the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, the 5-star Aquila Atlantis Hotel features an outdoor pool with unobstructed views over the harbour, a semi-covered pool and an elegantly decorated restaurant.
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Fitted with parquet floors and earthy colours, all rooms and suites of Atlantis Hotel enjoy views over the city of Heraklion, the harbour or the hotel’s atrium. Each unit includes a desk and comes equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, coffee machine and minibar. The modern bathrooms are stocked with free toiletries, bathrobes and slippers.
Located in Heraklion's elegant district, this 5-star hotel offers 2 gourmet restaurants, a free wellness centre and a large freshwater pool. Luxurious rooms feature balconies with pool and city views.
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Vetri Restaurant serves an American buffet breakfast prepared with fresh, local ingredients and Cretan cuisine. Per Se Lounge offers casual meals, wines and cocktails. The Pool Deck serves light meals and drinks. Every Friday between May and October, a live music event is hosted at Galaxy Iraklio Hotel.
Hersonissos region
Village Heights Resort is situated in Hersonissos, just a step away from the Crete Golf club. It's a relaxing getaway that features a spa centre with fitness area, sauna, hot tub, hammam, 2 outdoor pools, an indoor heated pool and 2 kids' pools. Free WiFi access is available throughout the property.
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In true traditional Cretan Village style, all studios, apartments and villas come with panoramic views of the stunning countryside and the sea. They also feature a satellite TV and DVD player, a fully equipped kitchen and coffee machine. Each unit features a private bathroom with a bath, a hairdryer and free toiletries.
Crete Golf Club Hotel is situated at The Crete Golf Club, an 18-hole Championship course in Hersonissos, 1.8 km from Aquaworld Aquarium and features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool.
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All units in the hotel are fitted with a flat-screen TV. Rooms have a private bathroom with a bath, private ultra high speed WiFi, free toiletries and a hairdryer. The rooms at Crete Golf Club Hotel come with a seating area. A à la carte breakfast is available daily at the property.
Featuring a magnificent outdoor pool and a restaurant, the 5-star Elysium Boutique Hotel & Spa (Adults only) offers accommodation in Analipsi of Hersonissos. The resort features a private pebbled beach. Free WiFi is available in all areas.
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All air-conditioned rooms are fitted with a TV, fridge and safety box. Every room includes a private bathroom with free toiletries and a hairdryer. There is a 24-hour front desk at the property. Only 2 km from the centre of Hersonissos, a place popular for the lively nightlife, the waterslide beach, bars, sports and extreme sports, bungee jumping, carts and shopping centres, close to the beach.
Vasia Boulevard is centrally located in Hersonissos and offers rooms with views to the picturesque port, a bar, and a café. A bus stop is 100 m away.
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All the en suite rooms of the hotel Vasia Boulevard are air-conditioned and have a refrigerator, satellite TV and balcony with sea or garden views. The well-trained staff at Vasia Boulevard are always at the guests’ disposal. The hotel has beautifully decorated internal spaces, including a lounge and dining room where buffet breakfast is served each morning.
Situated in the area of Limenas Hersonissou, Hersonissos Palace offers 5-star accommodation just 60 m from the beach. It includes an indoor and 2 outdoor pools, a restaurant and a tennis court.
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The air-conditioned rooms at Hersonissos Palace are elegantly furnished and enjoy sea, pool or garden views. They come with a satellite TV, mini fridge and they all have a seating area. The hotel’s restaurant is classically decorated and serves lunch and dinner in buffet style. Situated on the first floor, the lounge bar offers panoramic Cretan Sea views. There is also a pool bar and a traditional coffee house by the second pool.
Situated in Hersonissos, less than 1 km from Analipsi Beach, Paradise Island Villas features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre.
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Among the various facilities are a bar, a shared lounge, as well as a garden. The accommodation offers room service and free WiFi throughout the property. All rooms in the hotel are fitted with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a kitchen, a dining area, a safety deposit box and a private bathroom with a hot tub, bathrobes and slippers.
Lasithi region
This 5-star resort is situated in the beautiful seaside village of Sissi. It features an impressive fresh-water swimming pool equipped with fibre-optical effects, and a state-of-the-art spa with indoor pool.
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Guest rooms have private terraces overlooking the tropical gardens and the Cretan landscape. Some have private pools, and all come with high-speed internet connection and a flat-screen TV.
Boasting a 1500 m2 spa centre, outdoor swimming pool and 6 bars, Sentido Vasia Resort & Spa is peacefully set in the picturesque fishing village of Sissi.
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All stylish suites and room at Sentido Vasia Resort & Spa open to a furnished veranda or balcony. Some suites boast a private swimming pool. Each comes with a private bathroom, while some are also fitted with hydromassage facilities.
Perfectly situated 350 m from the beach in the village of Sissi, this boutique hotel, offers 5-star accommodation between Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos.
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All individual in style rooms and suites are equipped with modern amenities including Wi-Fi internet access, flat TV screens, DVD, air condition and furnished balconies. There are rooms designed especially for guests with disabilities and there is wheelchair access to all facilities.
Rethymno region
Situated in Platanes, 100 m from Platanes Beach, Atermono Boutique Resort features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre. With a bar, the property also features a shared lounge, as well as a garden.
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The hotel has an indoor pool, sauna, evening entertainment and a 24-hour front desk. The rooms are fitted with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer and a wardrobe. At the hotel rooms are equipped with a private bathroom with free toiletries.
Set on the beach, Sunshine Crete Beach has a spa centre and 4 swimming pools in Ierápetra. Boasting a 24-hour front desk, this property also welcomes guests with a restaurant, a water park and a seasonal outdoor pool.
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The property features evening entertainment and a kids’ club. At the hotel, the rooms include a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. All rooms at Sunshine Crete Beach have air conditioning and a wardrobe. Each opens to a balcony or terrace.
Situated right on the sandy beach of Adelianos Kampos, Rethymno Palace boasts an outdoor pool and a sun terrace with sun loungers. The hotel has a spa centre, and guests can enjoy a drink at the bar.
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All rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Certain rooms feature a seating area to relax in after a busy day. Views of the sea, mountain or pool are featured in certain rooms. The rooms include a private bathroom. For your comfort, you will find bathrobes and slippers.
Located on the sandy beach of Rethymno and within a short walk from the Old Town, Aquila Porto Rethymno features 3 freshwater pools, a private beach and 2 restaurants. The hotel complex offers a variety of sports and leisure activities, such as massage treatments and yoga lessons.
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Featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and earthy colours, the rooms of Aquila overlook the Cretan Sea or the town from their balcony. Each unit is equipped with air conditioning, satellite TV and a mini bar. The luxurious bathroom is stocked with bathrobes, slippers and a hairdryer.
Creta Royal is an adults only hotel, built along 400 m of sandy beach, just 12 km from Rethymnon, Crete. It offers a spacious pool setting with sea views and half-board accommodation.The hotel is in the area of Skaleta, 65 km from the airport of Heraklion and 70 km from the airport of Chania.
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This hotel offers 2 large saltwater pools with free umbrellas, sunbeds and pool towels, half-board and all-Inclusive accommodations. Creta Royal offers free wireless internet access in the public areas of the complex. There are also free private parking facilities.
Carme Villas are situated close to the traditional and historic village Adele, only 9 km east of Rethymnon, among the Cretan olive groves and fruit-bearing trees. The seafront is at 800 m.
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All rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with satellite TV and DVD player. They feature 2 separate floors and include a fully equipped kitchen and a living room. Daily cleaning services are provided.
Providing a privileged position near the vicinity’s attractions, this small but beautiful hotel features a special architectural structure and is conveniently located in the centre of Rethymnon, by the beach.
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Sun loungers and umbrellas are provided on the beach. The strategic situation of this modern hotel offers guests the opportunity of spending wonderful holidays which combine swimming, water sports, shopping in the town and night life without having to use any means of transportation as everything is within walking distance. A bottle of wine is offered upon arrival.
This 5-star Rethymnon Beach hotel has a Blue Flag sandy beach, equipped with loungers and parasols. Atlantis Beach Hotel offers rooms with balconies, large gardens and a 170-m² swimming pool.
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The air-conditioned rooms have free WiFi, LCD satellite TV with 25 foreign channels and 1 Greek news channel, and a fridge. Their balconies offer sea or pool view. All rooms overlook the beautiful hotel gardens.
Minos Ambassador - Adults only features a restaurant, fitness centre, a bar and garden in Rethymno Town. A hot tub and a bicycle rental service are available for guests.
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The accommodation provides a 24-hour front desk, room service and currency exchange for guests. At the hotel, every room is equipped with a desk, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. All units at Minos Ambassador – Adults only include air conditioning and a wardrobe.
Located in Scaleta, the 5-star Rethymno Mare Hotel features a large swimming pool and a kids' pool, a tennis court and a beach bar. Its rooms are luxuriously furnished, while the scenic town of Rethymno is 11 km away.
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Business facilities and free WiFi in public areas are provided. Rooms and suites at Rethymno Mare are air conditioned and come with a flat-screen, satellite TV, fridge, safety box, bathrobes and slippers. A bottle of wine, mineral water, fresh fruits and flowers are offered to guests upon arrival.
Kriti Beach Hotel lies right by a Blue Flag beach of Rethymnon, and a 5-minute walk from the Venetian Harbour. It features a heated pool, sauna and steam room and serves certified Greek breakfast in the morning.
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Each elegantly decorated room at Kriti Beach Hotel is air-conditioned and has private balcony with sea or mountain views. Greek breakfast is included in the room rate. Guests enjoy free WiFi and free parking. A bottle of wine is offered upon arrival.
Just a few metres from Skaleta Beach, Rethymno Mare Royal features a pool with a sun terrace, a bar and a restaurant. Covering a lush 35.000-m2 area, the property also includes a tennis court, a mini market, 2 coference rooms and a games room with billiards.
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All rooms and suites of Mare Royal open to a balcony overlooking the pool and the Cretan Sea. Fitted with wooden floors and warm colours, each air-conditioned unit features a fridge, a safe and an LCD satellite TV. The private bathroom is stocked with bathrobes, slippers and a hairdryer.
Situated in Pangalochori, 2 km from Beach Adelianos Kampos, White Olive Elite Rethymno features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a bar.
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Each accommodation at the 5-star hotel has garden views, and guests can enjoy access to a garden and to a terrace. The accommodation provides a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service and free WiFi. All rooms are fitted with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a fridge, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer and a desk. At the hotel the rooms include a wardrobe and a private bathroom.
