Amirandes Grecotel Exclusive Resort ★★★★★

The sleek and fresh décor of the Amirandes Grecotel Exclusive Resort radiates a sophisticated Greek ambience. My favourite thing is the oasis after oasis of pools, spread throughout the hotel’s extensive grounds. In addition to these shimmering lagoons, is the hotels three-beach access to the Mediterranean Sea, lined with thatched parasols and cushioned sun beds. The large Olympic sized pool reaches out to the horizon and is adorned with white pillars. It looked and felt divine.

Our room was a spacious, with views out to the glittering sea and a typical décor of fresh white and blue. The glass balcony made it look as if we could simply jump off it into the sea. Even the bathroom was luxuriously refined, decked out with smooth marble and tiles. There was a bath with a shower head, but I knew I was going to choose relaxing soaks over every day quick showers.

With nine chic different dining locations, serving up excellent food and drink we were sure to make the most of our half-board option. My favourite though, the Xasteria that serves up organic Cretan cuisine, allowing guests to delve straight into the island’s culinary culture with delicious Cretan dishes made from locally sourced ingredients and live music every evening! Other options include the Mediterranean Buffet at the Amirandes Restaurant, fine dining at Lago Di Candia Restaurant on a beautifully lit lagoon, the Blue Monkey for a touch of Asian cuisine, the al fresco airs of Petrino for seafood, and the avant-garde Minotaur, an Italian restaurant which honours ceramic art with some original ceramic works by Picasso on display.

The Amirandes is also a haven for children with kid’s clubs for all ages, keeping the younger ones occupied and safe with everything from colouring in, to beach volleyball. For adults meanwhile, there’s the Amirandes Elixir Alchemy Spa. Here, signature treatments are on offer that incorporate the use of organic plants and extracts from rare aromatic herbs, you can even find Ayurvedic therapies from the exotic lands of the East.

Though the live music of Labyrinth Lagoon bar tempted us, we chose to spend sundown at the brand new, indulgent Sunset Lounge and Beach Bar. We let the romantic light of the sunset bewilder us whilst we sipped on sweet liquors. The perfect ending to a perfect day!