Travel to Greece: The island of Crete is equipped with more tourist facilities than any other Greek island, which is fair enough because it is the largest. The reason why thousands of foreigners visit Crete each year, however, is not so much for the traditional Greek island experience, as for investigating the remains of the archaic Minoan culture that flourished here thousands of years before Christ. Some parts of the island have been overpowered by tourist resorts and massive hotels, but fortunately Crete does still allow for exploring endless beaches, numerous villages, remote mountains and some natural curiosities like caves and gorges for those who take pains to avoid the 'madding crowds'.

Crete City Scene
The famed Minoan archaeological sites, particularly the palace of Knossos and Phaistos, are vast and can take a great deal of time and effort to fully explore and appreciate. There are numerous other sites of interest as well, and not all related to the Minoan era. Crete has experienced thousands of years of habitation and has a complicated and diverse heritage, including years of Roman, Venetian and Turkish rule, that have all left their mark.

As one experienced traveller reportedly said: 'there is lots to see on Crete, and a lot not to see.' The best of Crete for those who do not want an in-and-out package style visit can be found on the east and west tips of the island, areas that have retained most of the island's traditions and natural beauty, as opposed to the northern coast that has been harshly overdeveloped. Gateway to the island is the large, modern city of Heraklion, which is anything but an island idyll, but a vital commercial centre.

Blue Palace Resort & Spa - Our Trips of a Lifetime Luxury Hotel Partner
Located off the Mediterranean Sea among the runs of the ancient city Olous on the Island of Crete, the Blue Palace is a luxury hotel that specializes in pampering patrons lavishly with its service and amenities in addition to the island's alluringly beautiful and exotic surroundings. The suites of the Blue Palace, with their marble-lined bath areas and ocean view, truly are befitting of royalty. Five restaurants offering mouthwatering delicacies with each one focusing on its unique cuisine sates the most demanding gastronomically refined palates.

It is equally appealing for family vacations, getaways, social events or business affairs. The resort's Spinlonga Hall is capable of accommodating events or affairs for up to 230 guests. A kids' club, a playground and babysitting services are available for the princes and princesses, while the kings and queens can shop lavishly at the luxury boutique and specialty stores or rejuvenate themselves at the all-encompassing health and beauty spa for adults. There are plenty of outdoor activities on the premises and in the area guaranteed to leave guests reeling in pleasure.
Crete, one of the largest and the southernmost island in the Mediterranean, is renowned for its rich history, crystal clear beaches, traditional villages and dramatic landscape.
Nearby archaeological sites offer afternoons of exploration among ancient Minoan ruins, while secluded beaches and mountain plateaus provide exquisite immersion into the essence of these timeless natural environs.
On an exclusive patch of the coastline in the northeast region of Crete, Elounda encompasses a breathtaking landscape that combines towering palm trees with fragrant citrus groves.
Blue Palace Resort & Spa - A resort of exceptional charm, architecture and style, Blue Palace Resort & Spa is the perfect hideaway to combine authentic island luxe accommodations, a true culinary journey and a soothing retreat for the senses.
The 200-meter pebble beach is bordered by a sprawling wooden deck and expansive grass areas that lead to individual decks furnished with umbrellas, luxurious sun beds and plush beach towels.
The Royal Blue Villa is a majestic three-bedroom residence unrivalled elsewhere on the island. Each bedroom has an en suite marble bathroom, some with their own fireplace and a private veranda with gardens.
Villa Thalassa is inspired by the Oriental style of the Mediterranean with original pieces handpicked from Morocco, Crete and other Greek Isles. It consists of two bedrooms with en-suite deluxe marble bathrooms and a grand living room with impressive features and great views.
Deluxe Suites offer a separate living room which leads to an oversized veranda with a corner infinity pool of 44 square meters / 473 square feet.
The extraordinary Island Luxury Suites fascinate with their matchless sea views, enlarged private heated pool of 30 square meters / 322 square feet and an outdoor patio with privacy.
Selected pools are heated to a pleasant temperature between 26o and 28o Celsius during spring and autumn months.
Unwind with exquisite cocktails at the prime location of the resort. Furnished with sofas and Moroccan lounges and facing the sea, this is a perfect spot for serene relaxation anytime of the day.
Don't miss the signature Luxury Collection Cocktail inspired by the Greek tradition - Tears of Chios.
From the three main outdoor swimming pools at Arsenali Lounge Bar, Votsalo Bar and beach level to two outdoor children's pools, a heated indoor pool at the ground floor of The Elounda Spa, we offer unparalleled options.
Enter a place of absolute tranquility at the award-wining Elounda Spa situated on the beach. Enjoy a traditional olive oil massage before relaxing with a signature cocktail under the famed Arsenali arches.
The Elounda Spa and Thalassotherapy, a place of absolute tranquillity created by the breathtaking natural beauty surrounding it.