Some of Crete's first luxury resorts were built around Elounda in the 60s, and it didn’t take long for this down-to-earth fishing village to became a glamorous A-List destination. The village is still one of Greece's most exclusive destinations, and many of the best places to stay in Elounda offer five star luxury with all the trimmings.

Things not to miss:

When it comes to local sightseeing it's easy to find a friendly boatman to take you out fishing or for a look around.

• On the edge of Elounda you’ll find the sunken city of Olous, which isn't really a city, more of a sunken village, but it's still an interesting sight to see walls and windmills underwater.
• Spinalonga Island makes for an excellent day trip from Elounda. The island was a fortress guarding the South West entrance to the Gulf of Elounda. It's unoccupied now, but its ancient Venetian fortifications and pebbly beaches were once home to a leper colony - which only closed down in the 1960s.
• To the south of Elounda is a man-made causeway leading onto the Kolokytha Peninsula.

Crete is hugely busy during the peak summer months and the best places to stay in Elounda are extremely popular. So either book well ahead, or come in the cheaper and quieter shoulder season when the weather is still warm, but the crowds have gone.

The best places to stay in Elounda

For a private beach

• Elounda Mare is a five star luxury resort with a private beach, access to private yachts, a golf course, watersports facilities, an enormous spa and grand suites with their own private pools if your budget will allow.
• Domes of Elounda is situated on its own private beach overlooking Mirabello Bay. It enjoys idyllic views and has beautiful interiors. There are three good restaurants, a spa and oodles of activities for those who like a bit of action.

For an epic view

• The Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas is an indulgent hideaway in a spectacular location. As well as amazing sea views, the hotel has 204 rooms, from simple, airy spaces to relax and sleep in, to palatial suites, plus a choice of restaurants - serving everything from Mediterranean to Asian food - a pampering spa and private pools, and all sorts of activities. So it’s perfect for doing as much, or as little as you fancy.

For Families

• If you're searching for a luxury family resort consider the Elounda Bay Palace, an impressive property surrounded by sub tropical gardens. There's an excellent kids club to keep the youngsters happy, and superb facilities for those who like to do more than sit by the pool.
• Or try the Elounda Gulf Villas and Suites, which has gorgeous views over Mirabello Bay, and luxurious decor and services, but it's only got ten suites and 18 self catering villas, so it's much smaller and more personal.

For private pools and ultimate luxury

• The Blue Palace combines the best of villa and hotel. Half the villas have their own private infinity pools, and there's a private beach. The hotel features fine dining and an award winning spa. Perfect for honeymooners, who may enjoy the champagne cruises available. Plus loads of other on site activities including Greek cookery classes.
• Elounda Peninsula is a deluxe hotel with stylish interiors and stunning views. All rooms come with their own pool and hot tub. Plus there's an award winning gourmet French restaurant. Families are well catered for too with flexible accommodation and kids club to keep the little ones entertained.

For a private apartment

• Explore the options at our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• The nearest airport to Elounda is Heraklion (51 miles).
• For car hire, visit our online partner Rentalcars.
• The best time to visit Elounda is from May to October (average daily temperatures don't dip much below 24 degrees celcius) but be warned it will get very busy in July and August.

Still not sure?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Elounda.
• Expand your search to include the best places to stay in Lasithi.
• Broaden your search to include the best places to stay in Crete.
• Or email one of our gurus for advice.