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Best hotels in Lasithi

Lasithi's beautiful coastline and plateau are some of the most beautiful, but least touristy parts of Crete. In amongst the glamourous resorts of Elounda and Agios Nikolaos, where you can find many of the best hotels in Lasithi, are small fishing and farming villages offering no visitor accommodation, but a chance to eat in a local taverna and see what life's like for modern Cretans before you go off and investigate some of the area's ancient treasures.

LasithiFlickr user Over Doz

Outlined below are some of the main towns in Lasithi and some of the best hotels from which to enjoy them.

Agios Nikolaos

Capital of Lasithi, Agios Nikolaos is set around a charming harbour, on the northernmost point of beautiful Mirabello Bay. Behind the harbour is a narrow channel opening onto a wide lake, which gives Agios Nikolaos reams of additional waterfrontage - lined by cafes, bars and tavernas. The actual seafront also has a long stretch of sandy beach, so this is one of the few places on Crete where you'll find a beach right in the centre of town. And then there's the marina.

Minos Beach Art Hotel

The varied ocean-view experiences are probably why sleepy Agios Nikolaos first began attracting visitors in the 60s, and quickly developed into a tourist town. But these days things are calmer and this town has the perfect combination of cosmopolitan liveliness and seaside peace.

  • Minos Beach Art Hotel has enough on offer that you could have a perfectly lovely holiday without leaving its pretty, green sanctuary dotted with contemporary artworks. There are semi-private beaches and coves and four restaurants, and the accommodation ranges from rooms and suites to entire whitewashed cottages, making it one of the best places to stay in Lasithi for families.
  • If you want nothing more than the perfect Cretan beach resort then check in to the St Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel and Villas. It's a low-rise garden resort looking out over the peninsula with views of the town and its beautiful bay. The small beach is surrounded by landscaped gardens, and there's a spectacular infinity pool. This was one of the first real luxury resorts on Crete, and it's got a charming retro feel about it.
  • Daios Cove is a luxury resort just minutes from the town. Sumptuous suites and villas boast cool contemporary interiors and for families it's ideal with kids club and huge range of activities available.

Daios Cove Luxury Resort

There are magnificent views along the road linking Agios Nikolaos and Elounda, with rising mountains on one side of you and charming coves and wonderful sea views on the other. So even if you don't need to pass this way it makes for a scenic drive...

Elounda

Some of Crete's first luxury resorts were built around Elounda in the 60s, so this fishing village became a glamourous A-List destination, and it's still one of the best places to stay in Lasithi if you're looking for one of Greece's most exclusive resorts. However there are plenty of affordable options in town, and town is a cute, cosmopolitan place within walking distance of several sandy beaches.

EloundaFlickr user Over Doz

On the edge of Elounda is 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. 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 60s.

  • The luxury family resort Domes of Elounda is certainly one of the best hotels in Lasithi. It enjoys spectacular views over Mirabello Bay, has its own private beach, three excellent pools and a large spa. Your kids may appreciate the drawing classes, tennis lessons and the chance to try all kinds of watersports.
  • If you're after something smaller, book the Elounda Gulf Villas and Suites. It has the gorgeous views over Mirabello Bay too, and the luxurious decor and services, but it's only got ten suites and 18 self catering villas, so it's much more personal.

Elounda Gulf Villas and Suites

  • For serious luxury, book the Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas. An indulgent celebrity style hideaway this resort has private decks, private beaches, private screening rooms and several restaurants ranging from causal dining to gourmet.
  • Elounda Bay Palace is a large luxury resort that works for both couples and families, with sumptuous accommodation, kids club and oodles of activities on tap.

Elounda Mare

  • Elounda Mare is another property that attracts the celebrity crowd. It boasts a private beach, yachts to charter, a golf course and enormous spa.
  • The Blue Palace follows the same theme with fabulous accommodation - over half the villas have private infinity pools, plus there's a private beach, fine dining restaurants and award winning spa.
  • Finally we recommend the Elounda Peninsula. Here the fifty suites offer contemporary decor, each with its own private pool and hot tub! The perfect romantic hideaway.

Sitia

On Crete's quieter eastern side, Sitia is one of the closest towns to Palekastro, which has some impressive Minoan excavations, and it has an archaeological museum which houses many findings from this dig. It also has a lovely waterfront, a large public beach, numerous old cafes and tavernas - and its own 13th century fortress.

SitiaFlickr user fotogake

It has been relatively untouched by tourism, so it's a good option if you want to experience a more authentic version of Crete. The harbour is unlike Chania's or Rethymno, because it's yet to become over commercialised and is still full of the colourful little fishing boats which serve the colourful little restaurants around it.

Sitia is also ideally located for visiting Richtis Gorge and waterfall, and the palace and gorge at Kato Zakros.

Cressa Ghitonia

  • Cressa Ghitonia is ideally located between Sitia and Agios Nikolaos. It offers a stylish cluster of traditional village houses in a stunning location that offers access to unspoilt beaches and the wild Cretan countryside.

Kato Zakros

Kato Zakros is a small town of mostly olive oil farmers and fisherman, which sits on a simply spectacular spot at the very edge of Lasithi Plateau. No one would know this was one of the most beautiful of Crete's villages if they weren't coming here already to visit the nearby ruins of a large Minoan Palace and a beautiful gorge, lined with caves in which Minoan tombs have been discovered. This isn't a tourist town - there are no shops, but there are a few tavernas, most of which grow a lot of their own food, and nearby are some of the best hotels in Lasithi if you're looking for somewhere remote.

Yiannis Retreat

  • Yiannis Retreat is a charming collection of self-catering stone villas set amid pretty tropical gardens, just a short walk from the beach. There's no restaurant on site, but a BBQ is provided if you don't want to walk to the local taverna.

Aspros Potamos

Aspros Potamos is a tiny settlement on Lasithi's Southern side. Reputed to be one of the oldest inhabited locations in the area, it is known for its natural beauty, stunning beaches and unspoilt traditional villages. It's a place to visit if you want to find a slice of authentic Crete, and do more than simply lie on a busy beach. Not that you can't just lie on a beach, but then you'd lmiss out on all the glorious walking trails and visits to the Kaspa Monastery, Dei Mezzo Villa (the only Venetian Villa in this part of the island) and much, much more!

White River Cottages

  • Aspros Potamos is a small collection of stone cottages offering a true home-from-home in this beautiful spot. It's simple, but it's the perfect place to escape from the pressures of 21st century living!
  • White River Cottages is a similar proposition - a charming hamlet of thirteen restored shepherd's huts set amid olive groves and citrus trees. The accommodation is cool and comfortable and there's the added bonus of a pool, if you can't face the walk to the beach!

For an apartment or villa

  • If you're travelling with family or a group of friends it may be a better option to book a villa or apartment. For a wide range of properties for all tastes and budgets we recommend you visit our online partner, Booking.com.

Travel information

  • From Athens, Crete can be reached by a 9-10 hour ferry or year round flights. From April to October numerous airlines fly direct to Heraklion and Chania.
  • The climate is ideal for most of the year. The traditional tourist period is April to mid-October but the best times to visit are in late spring/early summer and in autumn when the weather is not too hot.
  • If you plan to hire a car, which we strongly advise if you want to get out and explore, we recommend you visit our online partner, Holiday Autos.

Still not sure which to book?

  • Minos Beach Art Hotel Agios Nikolaos 129 rooms from £336

    Honeymoons  -  A haven of tranquility with private villas with mountian and sea views, spoiling massages and haute cuisine overlooking the bay
    Beach Life  -  Set directly on the crystal clear waters, indulge in diving, sailing, fishing or simply basking on the stunning beaches
    Hotel boats for hire  -  Venture out in the hotel's motorboat around the bay or day cruises to Spinalonga and Mochlos
    Artworks  -  A wealth of fine art and sculptures are scattered through the property
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels

    Set in an out-of-this-world location right on the Cretan seafront. A collection of understated luxury rooms and bungalows are elegantly decorated with simple white walls and minimalist artworks. Excellent Mediterranean dishes are served up in the restaurants. Ideal for totally relaxing. See More

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  • St Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel and Villas Agios Nikolaos (Thessi Nissi) 107 rooms from £226

    Romantic Break  -  Spoil yourselves with chartered yachts, tandem massages, chic rooms, five on site restaurants plus cocktail bar and beach bar
    Total relaxation  -  Totally unwind with relaxing Poseidon Spa face and body therapies, sauna, Hammam, hot tub and cocktails!
    Sailing  -  Explore untouched beaches and coves in the hotel's 34-foot sailing boat.
    Full of character  -  The retro 60's look adds an element of "cool"
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyParking
    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi Collection, Small Luxury Hotels

    Low-rise garden resort with immaculate seaside grounds. Rooms with floaty linen curtains have excellent sea views from their large glass windows. Suites and private villas have personal pools. A good selection of bars and restaurants. Explore the surrounding islands or simply lie back and relax. See More

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  • Aspros Potamos Lasithi, Crete 10 rooms from £65

    Back to Nature  -  This stunning area of natural beauty combines beaches and mountains covered by lush greenery, pine, olive and citrus trees
    Eco break  -  The buildings have been restored in a traditional fashion, using all natural materials and only renewable energy sources
    Great walks  -  Explore the ancient settlement of Aspros Potamos on foot, the terrain is ideal for hikers and mountaineers
    Self catering  -  Self-catering apartments (of varying sizes) include firelit lounges, kitchens, and terraces
    GardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    A home-away-from-home set in a stunning rural spot with beaches, bars and tavernas a walk away. A small collection of traditional stone cottages make the perfect base for families. Self-catering and BBQ are available for all. Return to simpler times at this beautiful hideaway on Crete. See More

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  • White River Cottages Lasithi, Crete 13 rooms from £75

    Romantic Break  -  The charmingly rustic self contained studios and apartments are ideal for couples looking for a bit of privacy and romance.
    Hideaway  -  Off the tourist track, this peaceful retreat is set in stunning natural landscape and only a 15 min walk to the beach.
    Great walks  -  Explore this amazing landscape on foot, full of olive groves, citrus trees and lovely landscapes.
    Sights nearby  -  Walk down through the olive groves to Makriyialos, the prettiest town on this stretch of coast.
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    A charming hamlet of 13 former shepherds cottages surrounded by olive groves and citrus trees. The self catering studios are rustic and quaint and with stunning views of the local area and sea. This authentic and secluded spot is a 15-minute walk from the beaches and local town. See More

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  • Yiannis Retreat Sitia, Crete 5 rooms from £52

    Full of character  -  A truly Cretan hideaway with beamed ceilings and thick stone walls — each room is rustic chic and packed full of character
    Families  -  With plenty of space and activities for kids to enjoy plus the option to self-cater makes this an easy option for families
    Beach nearby  -  Pretty Kato Zakros Bay is nearby and has tavernas serving Cretan cuisine on the beach front
    Self catering  -  Each room has a well equipped kichenette and there are BBQ facilities for guests to use too
    Air conditioningGardenViewsParking

    A charming self-catering retreat set in cascading tropical gardens. Charming stone villas with private kitchenettes and outdoor dining are dotted around the grounds. Guests are provided with a selection of homemade jams and spices. A short walk from the beach, this is a perfect holiday hide out. See More

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  • Cressa Ghitonia Sitia, Crete 15 rooms from £94

    Hideaway  -  Charming traditional stone houses set in the remote Lasithi region surrounded by mountains and uncrowded beaches
    Families  -  Larger Vintage houses are best for families and have small separate rooms with bunk beds for kids
    Romantic Break  -  Couples can rent their own one room house with a private terrace - ideal for a romantic hideaway
    Local exploring  -  Aghios Nikolaos, town and lake are located just 20kms from the hotel
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    A stylish cluster of carefully renovated traditionally styled village houses. Modern comforts include a lovely small spa, however, the location surrounded by mountains and uncrowded beaches is the real lure. Will appeal to hikers and nature lovers. See More

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  • Daios Cove Resort Agios Nikolaos 300 rooms from £533

    Active Holiday  -  Endless onsite activities such as watersports, a scuba diving centre, sailing and motor yacht rental, yoga, and tennis courts
    Families  -  There is a wide range of family friendly accommodation including villas with pools, plus on site kids club etc
    Beach Life  -  A wonderful luxury resort with its own private beach and excelllent watersports facilities
    Spa breaks  -  There is a luxury spa on site with extensive facilities for a pampering break
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViews

    Luxury beach resort just minutes from Agios Nikolaos. Sumptuous suites and villas have contemporary interiors and fabulous sea views, and many with their own private pool. Private sandy beach, and fantastic facilities for all the family including a luxury spa and kids club. See More

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  • Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa Elounda 251 rooms from £426

    Beach Life  -  The property has a private beach area (complete with an open-air cineam in the evenings) - ideal for a quiet beach getaway
    Honeymoons  -  This is honeymoon stuff- blue skies, crystal clear waters, indulgent spa, luxury accomadation and sunset cruises
    Scuba course  -  The hotel offers scuba lessons plus night dives and boat dives, the perfect way to explore this beautiful coast
    Spa breaks  -  A luxe spa combines the benefits of Thalassotherapy with the commitment to luxury and personal attention
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection

    An ultra-luxurious haven combining the best of villa and hotel facilities, with over half the villas having private infinity pools. Elegant, with a private beach, fine dining restaurants and an award-winning spa. Coastal perfection. See More

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  • Elounda Bay Palace Elounda 152 rooms from £209

    Families  -  The young ones are kept happy with loads of activities at the kids club and playground, while parents get time to relax
    Active Holiday  -  Never a dull moment with mini golf, billiards, darts, tennis, scuba diving, sailing, waterskiing, fishing and more
    Restaurant  -  Thalassa Waterfront restaurant serving delicious seafood dishes and Aretoussa Restaurant - Greek & international cuisine
    Sailing  -  Either charter your own boat or take a skipper, and set sail directly from the hotel
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection

    Impressive luxury resort, totally insulated from the outside world in semi-tropical gardens. Large rooms offer mountain views or sea views from the large glass windows. Suites have private pools. An epic choice of restaurants and bars. Lovely beaches, ideal for a romantic break or family holiday. See More

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  • Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas Elounda 204 rooms from £331

    Scuba course  -  Explore the crystal clear waters of Crete, with the PADI certified dive center ranging from elementary to specialised courses
    Total relaxation  -  With palatial suites, private pools, a pampering spa, and unbeatable service you are sure to leave relaxed and refreshed
    Weddings  -  Overlooking the deep blue Mirabello Bay, this is a fairytale location for a wedding plus the property has its own chapel
    Hotel Entertainment  -  With plenty of bars and pools plus mini golf, table tennis, basketball and a bridge club there is never a dull moment
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection

    An indulgent luxury hideaway in a fabulous location. Smart rooms and suites make the most of the epic sea views. A range of restaurants serve standout cuisine from Mediterranean to Asian. Activities to suit all and a truly pampering spa. A benchmark for luxury on Crete. See More

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  • Elounda Gulf Villas and Suites Elounda 45 rooms from £338

    Spa breaks  -  Spa villas have their own sauna, steam bath, and gym, while the Elexir Spa Gallery offers a whole range of expert treatments.
    Honeymoons  -  Wonderfully intimate and romantic, with secluded private gardens and pools, and butlers bringing you juice each morning!
    Families  -  Trust the team of professionals from the kids club to keep the kids happy and allow for parents to truly relax.
    Sailing  -  Sailing, motor boating and yachting are available at the hotel, an ideal romantic day trip.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  I Escape, Kiwi Collection, Small Luxury Hotels

    Ultimate, intimate luxury, combining self-catering villa living with hotel services. A welcome alternative to the larger resorts, luxury here is discreet, with a genuine personal touch. A charming and pampering hideaway with stunning views. See More

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  • Elounda Mare Elounda 74 rooms from £327

    Romantic Break  -  Enjoy couples' treatments in the spa and choose one of the suites with a private pool for an intimate stay
    Families  -  Although the feel is somewhat quiet, there is an excellent kids' club and a wide choice of activities
    Active Holiday  -  There's so much to do without even leaving the property's grounds from watersports to tennis or golf
    Spa breaks  -  Each month offers the option of a particular programme, be it cleansing, massage, facials or detox
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux

    Luxury hotel spread across a hilly cove shares impressive facilities with its sister hotels. Expect private beaches, yachts to charter, watersports, a golf course, a Sixth Sense spa, and fine dining. Rooms, suites, bungalows, and separate royal suites boast private pools. This is an indulgent choice See More

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  • Domes of Elounda Elounda 118 rooms from £254

    Spa  -  The spa includes an indoor seawater pool, a hammam, a sauna & steam, a frigidarium & tepidarium plus a wide range of treatments
    Resort  -  With everything you could want on-site, this is a great choice to come and simply unwind
    Families  -  Numerous activities for children from tennis lessons and watersports to drawing classes
    Beach Life  -  With a private sandy beach this is an easy choice for a beach getaway
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    A stunning resort on Mirabello Bay with its own private beach and dreamy views. Smart rooms and suites have modern furnishings, all the modern gadgetry, balconies, and some have private pools. Three excellent restaurants, salt water pools and an extensive spa complete the picture on this luxe stay. See More

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  • Elounda Peninsula Elounda 50 rooms from £279

    Families  -  Family suites and private villas with pools - plus babysitting services and a kids' club
    Spa breaks  -  An award winning spa specializes in unique treatments and medicinal treatments
    Foodies  -  Sumosan - an award winning restaurant on site serves Japanese gourmet cuisine
    Diving  -  Crystal clear waters and fascinating flora and fauna to discover
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    Experience luxury in abundance at this peninsula hotel with contemporary decor and great sea views. All suites come with an outdoor pool and, along with its adjacent sister hotels, there’s an abundance of facilities, including 10 restaurants and bars, a spa, kids’ club and watersports. Bliss. See More

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Written by Kat Parr Mackintosh

posted Tuesday, 20th February 2018