Elounda Garden Suites

From humble beginnings as a small fishing-and farming village, Elounda has grown into what is widely regarded as Crete's most upmarket resort, with some of Greece's most luxurious (and eye-wateringly expensive) hotels discretely nestling on the surrounding hillsides and along the coastline. Nevertheless, the resort itself retains an enjoyably laid-back and traditionally Cretan atmosphere, and when it comes to guest satisfaction, the luxury palaces on the resort's outskirts are consistently outscored by this small, family-run complex, according to the well-known review sites. Elounda Garden Suites may not offer rooms with private pools or 24-hour personal butler service, but has built up a loyal following thanks to its convenient location, comfortable and spotless accommodation and - above all - the genuine hospitality offered by its friendly and helpful staff.

Tucked away in a side street amidst olive trees, residential properties and a couple of other small hotels and apartment blocks, Elounda Garden Suites are just a five-minute walk from the picturesque fishing harbour which is lined by tavernas, cafés and restaurants, and the sheltered sandy beach with its beguiling views across the bay to the rugged Elounda Island. They are therefore ideal for couples and families looking for a relaxed seaside holiday within easy walking distance of a comprehensive range of facilities.

Elounda Garden Suites consists of 21 rooms and suites of different sizes arranged in several two-storey buildings. All are light and airy inside, and benefit from air-conditioning, free WiFi, satellite TV (limited English-language channels), modern en-suite shower rooms and furnished balconies or terraces. The standard double room is approximately 27 square metres in size and suitable for two people. Suites (approx. 35 sqm) and Family Suites (approx. 40 sqm) have a double bedroom plus a separate lounge with one sofa bed in the ordinary suites and two sofa beds in the family suites. The Maxima Suite (approx. 65 sqm) has two separate bedrooms (one with double bed, the other with twin beds) as well as a lounge with two sofa beds and an open-plan kitchen with a large fridge-freezer and a full-size cooker.

Apart from the Maxima Suite, the rooms and suites are not equipped for self-catering, but each has a fridge and tea-and-coffee-making facilities, handy for those who just enjoy some Greek yoghurt with honey or a pastry from one of the local bakeries for breakfast on their own terrace. For those who prefer to start their days with something a little more substantial, freshly cooked breakfasts are served for an extra charge at the pool bar. Here, guests planning to wile away their days just relaxing on one of the comfy sun-loungers by the swimming pool, can also get refreshing drinks throughout the day. For lunch or dinner, there is a wide selection of local eateries, just a short walk away along the seafront.

An unusual bonus not often found in smaller complexes on Crete is the fact that the saltwater swimming pool can be heated, which makes it even more enticing especially for those planning to travel in early or late season.

The team at Elounda Island Suites are always happy to offer advice and assistance to help their guests make the most of their stay in Elounda. Those who enjoy walking can explore the smaller hamlets in the hills behind Elounda, and the virtually uninhabited island that is linked to Elounda by a causeway. For a change of pace, the larger town of Agios Nikolaos is easily reached by bus, as it the traditional village of Plaka in the opposite direction, or you can take a boat excursion from the harbour to Spinalonga Island. For those keen to explore further afield, we offer reduced car hire rates if you pick up a hire car on arrival at the airport, but Elounda Garden Suites are ideally placed for those who prefer not to have to drive whilst on holiday.