Crete's quiet coast: escape the crowds & reset in style
Forget the predictable Chania hustle. This summer, I stumbled upon a Cretan secret—the island's eastern coast—and it's the antidote to Travel fatigue you didn't know you needed. My sister and I, weary from a relentless month, sought refuge there, and what we found was a pocket of tranquility ripe for exploration.
A luxurious base: zeus eleva mirabello bay
Our home for the week was the Zeus Eleva Mirabello Bay, a sprawling resort that somehow manages to feel both expansive and intimate. With 343 rooms, suites, bungalows, and villas—some boasting private pools—it caters to a wide range of travelers. I, armed with a hefty novel, happily claimed one of the villas. The pool adjacent to our apartment, however, was a slight disappointment; it was tucked away a flight of stairs down and perpetually shaded, a detail worth noting. The main pool, though? A different story entirely. It's a study in relaxed luxury – plentiful loungers, a buzzy but calm atmosphere, and a swim-up bar that proved irresistible, not just for the expertly crafted cocktails but also for the refreshingly chilled iced coffees.
The resort’s dining options are plentiful. We became devoted patrons of Mezedaki, the beachside Greek grill restaurant. The seafood was exceptional, and they handled my sister’s vegetarian preferences with ease. Be warned, though: the bars do get crowded during peak hours, so plan accordingly.
And for those seeking pampering, the Mirabello Spa is a must. Even a brief treatment is a worthwhile indulgence, and the indoor heated pool and jacuzzi offer a welcome respite whether you’re escaping a family vacation or simply seeking a moment of quiet.
Beyond the resort: spinalonga & agios nikolaos
But Crete is more than just a beautiful resort. A short boat trip takes you to Spinalonga Island, a place steeped in a haunting history. Once Europe’s last leper colony, the island's abandoned houses stand as a stark reminder of the past. Walking through the ruins, a self-guided tour, was a surprisingly moving experience—a counterpoint to the resort’s carefree atmosphere. The silence, broken only by the lapping waves, is deeply affecting.
Agios Nikolaos, a charming town just a short drive away, is worth a visit. It’s a quiet place, full of traditional tavernas and shops brimming with postcards, ceramics, and sweet treats. We joined a guided tour that took us to the nearby villages and the serene Monastery of Kremast. Even if history isn't typically your thing, the monastery's peaceful setting and the sweet shop attached to it provide ample reason to go.
A Deluxe Room with Garden View at Zeus Eleva Mirabello Bay starts at £151 per night, breakfast included. It's a price that reflects the quality and the escape it offers.
The location itself is a major draw – close to restaurants, bars, and scenic walking routes, all with a beautiful beach at your doorstep. It’s a place where you can simultaneously unwind and explore, a rare and precious combination.