A guide to Best Hotels in Crete

TUI Sensatori Atlantica Caldera Palace

Within the stylish interior of this five-star hotel you’ll find spacious rooms and a deluxe spa. There are seven restaurants to choose from, offering everything from sushi to al fresco barbecue. Outside, the Sensatori continues to wow with six large pools, including two just for adults, and a kids’ pool complete with a fun Sprayground. It’s located right on the beach in the traditional village of Analipsi, close to lively Hersonissos.

Atlantica Akti Zeus Hotel

You’ll feel right at home in this chic hotel, with its comfortable modern rooms. The talking point of the Atlantica Akti Zeus is outside – an on-site water park with adrenaline-fuelled slides such as the Kamikaze. There are also two large pools, fringed by green lawns and a restaurant. The hotel also has a private spot on the beach with sun loungers and parasols, where you can watch the sun set. It’s located in Amoudara, around eight miles from Heraklion.

Louis Creta Princess Hotel

This upmarket hotel is a great pick for families. Kids will be crazy about the pirate ship adventure playground and their own pool, complete with water slides. Adults will love sunning themselves round the two large lagoon pools. The hotel’s interior has recently been refurbished – you’ll be staying in an airy, comfortable room decorated in shades of white and blue. The buffet restaurant offers a global spread, and you can tuck into Asian cuisine at Mura. You’ll find the hotel right by the beach at Maleme.

Euphoria Resort

Stay at the brand-new Euphoria Resort if you’re looking for a family holiday, but with some pampering on the cards. This stylish hotel is decorated in a neutral palette in a contemporary style. It’s renowned for its programme of family-friendly activities, and kids will love the outdoor adventure playground and splash park. Adults can indulge themselves at the Harmonia Spa, which features a sauna, indoor heated pool and hamam. The hotel is located on the beach at Kolymbari.

Iberostar Creta Panorama and Mare

As its name suggests, this stylish hotel is renowned for its stunning 360° ocean views, as it has a clifftop location. There are no less than six pools to choose from, including a couple for kids. The Iberostar also wows with its gardens – large lawns fringed with palm trees. There are several restaurants to choose from, including an international buffet spread and an Italian. The hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from a Blue Flag beach, a mile from laid-back Panormo.

Aquila Rithymna Beach Hotel

This hotel is decorated like a Cretan village, with whitewashed rooms and outdoor tavernas serving Greek cuisine, alongside a buffet restaurant. The four pools are surrounded by loungers, so you can soak up the Mediterranean sun. The hotel offers a diverse programme of activities, including silk painting and Greek cookery lessons. It’s located right on Rethymon Beach, a beautiful stretch of sand with Blue Flag status. Both Chania and Heraklion Airports are an 80-minute drive away.

Frixos Hotel and Apartments

This budget-friendly hotel is situated in Malia, a buzzing nightlife spot, and is a great base for exploring the clubs and bars. It has a pool area designed for socialising – there’s even a swim-up bar. Generous buffet breakfasts are available in the mornings. Rooms are simply decorated, but comfortable.

Family Life Creta Paradise by Atlantica

This beach hotel aims to provide fun for the whole family in luxurious surroundings. There’s a full programme of activities, games and sports that will keep children occupied. Two kids’ pools and a playground seals the deal. There’s also a quiet pool just for adults, and a deluxe spa. Accommodation is in airy villas – some family suites even have a private pool. The hotel has an enviable location on the gorgeous beach of Gerani, seven miles from the historic city of Chania.

Malia Dedalos Hotel

This budget-friendly hotel is located on a quiet side-street off Malia Mile, so it’s a good place to stay if you plan on partying. The simply decorated rooms are equipped with a kitchenette, but there’s a restaurant for when you don’t want to cook. Relax on a sun lounger by the pool, or there’s a great outdoor bar that serves delicious drinks.