Elounda Bay Palace

Stone walls, azure pools, and a backdrop of mountains and sea strike a serene note at the Elounda Beach Hotel on Crete's northeast coast.

Set within 40 acres of colourful gardens and parkland, the resort has panoramic views of Mirabello bay, with 252 guestrooms, suites, private bungalows and villas located in the hotel and around the grounds.

The decor of the rooms is contemporary, with light-wood furniture and wood-laminate flooring, and large windows leading to furnished balconies with pool views.

All have walk-in-closets and marble bathrooms with bathrobes and slippers, and amenities include air conditioning, satellite television and minibars. Bathrooms in the bungalows and suites have jetted tubs and steam baths, and there are suites with private platforms leading direct to the sea, as well as villas with their own private pools and hot tubs.

Throughout the property, rock walls and sun-splashed decks create an inviting setting for six restaurants, three bars, conference centre and banqueting suites that can hold up to 600 guests.

Dining options include a la carte cuisine, theme nights, and a poolside restaurant that serves lunches, all-day snacks and afternoon tea. An onsite health club features exercise equipment, fitness classes, and spa services including massages, facials, and other treatments.

The hotel has a number of bars including a pool bar and the piano and harp bar where live music is performed. The Veghera Jetty Bar is located on the sea and the disco and dancing goes on till late.

The hotel has an outdoor heated swimming pool and water sports are available on the beach such as sailing, water skiing and surfing.

There are numerous attractions in the area including the port of Aghios Nikolaos where visitors can catch a bit of local life, seven kilometres from the hotel, and the ancient ruins at Lato, 13 kilometres from the hotel. Heraklion International Airport is 68 kilometres (42 miles) from the hotel.