Dalabelos Estate

The agritourist experience is characterised by a return to nature in some form - be it at a farm, a ranch, or something else. The Dalabelos Estate operates on a large organic farm, where, aside from the hotel, the team runs culinary courses, and agricultural activities like grape picking and olive gathering, among other things. This is anything but a ´Brits-abroad’ tourist trap, benefitting from the bliss of virtual seclusion and thus showcasing Crete at its most authentic. But, despite what it might have indicated in the past, a ‘return to nature’ doesn’t have to equate to a lack of luxury. Quite the contrary: Dalabelos is a gorgeous property, with numerous contemporary-style buildings stretching over the hill and, as its centrepiece, a sprawling infinity pool, surrounded by sunloungers and facing north toward the Aegean Sea.

Accommodation is apartment-style, in charming, unpretentious stone-built blocks that draw heavily from Mediterranean design. You’ll stay in either one of the cottages or one of the suites. All options feature beautiful, warm designs with attractive furnishings produced by local artisans, potters and woodworkers. Even the ceramic shower basins are expertly crafted by hand. Nods to classic farmhouse aesthetics, like the fireplaces, create a cosy environment that is, all the same, contemporary and fresh. Amenities like TV and air-con ensure you don’t sacrifice the modern comforts you want during your pastoral escape.

Since it’s an organic farm, one of the major highlights is, of course, the cuisine. At the restaurant, you’ll have the sheer pleasure of dining on food sourced almost entirely from the farm and prepared by the owners – from the meats and cheeses to the fruits and herbs. Vegetarians in particular will love the veggie-heavy Cretan cuisine. Likewise, pescatarians will adore the fish fresh from Panormo. After breakfasting on the terrace, you’re free to stroll the entirety of the farm, gathering vegetables, picking fruits, or perhaps curling up in the shade of one of the several-hundred trees that line the hillside. And it just so happens that the owner and their friends are musically gifted, so be sure to check out one of their shows featuring traditional Cretan instruments. Discover the real Crete with a stay at the Dalabelos Estate - an agritourist experience that’s guaranteed to charm.