Crete, Greece
Amirandes Grecotel Exclusive Resort
Fit for Minoan kings
What it is
Relaxed, five-star elegance on Crete’s northern coast.
What it isn't
Compact, with 212 rooms—including freestanding bungalows and villas—spread over 17 acres. After all, the resort is modeled after Minoan palaces.
What we think
An opulent maze of stone-lined paths meandering around a king-sized lagoon, Amirandes contains multitudes. Come here for romance (dine at Lago di Candia, its alfresco terrace overlooking the sea) or family time (the kids can learn everything from golf to Greek dancing). You can be sybaritic on the beach or wellness-focused at the spa, which uses extracts from aromatic Cretan herbs. There’s an Olympic-sized saltwater pool as well as a choice of three stunning beaches fronting the Aegean. Among the eight dining options, the standout is Minotaur, where Italian specialties are served amid the resort’s impressive collection of Picasso ceramics. Eat your heart out, Jay-Z.
Note: The resort is open seasonally spring to autumn
You're here because
It’s Crete, so sun-drenched, beachfront and upscale are prerequisites. Your asks: someplace that can accommodate the family but allow for moments of grown-up romance.
The Moment
You’re sitting at a rough-hewn wood table at Agreco, the 100-acre organic farm owned by the resort. As the setting sun turns the fields shimmering gold, you watch as traditionally-garbed farmers load the table with olives, wine, produce and herbs—all grown right here.
Restaurants & Bars
Amirandes - Mediterranean buffet
Lago Di Candia - Mediterranean fine dining
Minotaur - New Italian
Petrino - Seafood al fresco
Xasteria - Cretan organic cuisine
Blue Monkey - Asian cuisine
By the Pool - All-day brasserie
Labyrinth - Lagoon Bar
Location
On Crete’s northern shore, a 15-minute drive to Heraklion International Airport. Cretaquarium, Labyrinth Park and Aquaworld Aquarium are close at hand, though you hardly need to leave the resort.