What it is

An intimate collection of 33 Mediterranean-front villas owned by the Kadianakis family.

What it isn't

Lacking in anything. Despite the small footprint, you’ll find anything you could wish for on the grounds, including private yacht trips and local olive oil tastings.

What we think

Life in Crete, Greek’s largest island and the birthplace of Zeus himself, is all about the sea. So it figures that Elounda, run by the charming women of the Kadianakis clan—Anna, the matriarch, Anthi and Charitini—is as ocean inspired as they come. Rooms are either decorated in rich sandy hues or the sky beyond’s trademark blue and white, and tricked out with luxurious touches, including Italian-made linens, tromp l’oeil (frescoed) ceilings and latter day requisite amenities (iPod docking stations, king sized beds, mini fridges and microwaves). We love that the resort maintains a flotilla of watercraft for all-ages fun, and (this being en famille) has a laudable kids club, including disco nights and pajama parties.

You're here because

Among the many perks of #VillaLife? They’re happy to arrange an in-villa BBQ night, everything grilled to order and everything evocative of idyllic summer afternoons.

The Moment

The hotel’s main restaurant, Argo, took its moniker from the ship from Greek mythology fame, and it’s as local as they come: the breakfast buffet abounds with Cretan cheeses, honey, pastries and kalitsounia—an herb and cheese stuffed hand-held pie. A few of those and you may not fit in your swimsuit, but after one delectable bite, you no longer care.

Restaurants & Bars

The Argo Restaurant - Mediterranean cuisine.

The Daphni - Mediterranean and international cuisine.

The Argo Bar - Unwind with exquisite cocktails and refreshments.

Location

On a lush hilltop near Crete’s teensy-but-delightful fishing village of Elounda, on Mirabello Bay.