Crete, Greece’s largest island, is one of the most popular holiday destinations for a quick European escape that won’t break the bank. Chania is the ever-popular spot but, if you’re considering a trip to the island (which I hope is why you’re here), allow me to introduce you to the east coast of Crete. It’s scenic, quiet and yet to be oversaturated. I took the trip with my sister as the summer season wound down, and it was the perfect sister getaway to restore and reset after a chaotic month. Here’s what we got up to…
Where to stay…
Zeus Eleva Mirabello Bay review
This hotel is beautiful and worked for both me and my sister, but it’s also super well-suited to larger families. It has 343 rooms, suites, bungalows and villas, some boasting private pools which are perfect if you prefer to relax without anyone else around. I loved this for kicking back with my book; the only downside was that the pool linked to the apartment was down a flight of stairs and quite shaded during the day.
I will say, I loved the main pool, with its beds and luxe loungers — it wasn’t full of hustle and bustle, and had a calm yet buzzy energy. Plus, it didn’t feel like The Hunger Games when it came to reserving a lounger (you know the struggle). The swim-up bar was a big hit for us — and not just for the cocktails (although they are great); the iced coffees kept us swimming back. If the pool isn’t your thing I cannot relate but the hotel also has two private beaches to chill on.
Food-wise, there are five restaurants to choose from, and our favourite was Mezedaki, the hotel’s traditional Greek grill restaurant on the beach. I had incredible seafood there, while they also catered well to my sister’s veggie needs. Bar-wise, there are two (along with the three pool bars) but, as a warning, the queues do get busy at peak times.
The Mirabello Spa
As a beauty journalist, I always feel the need to test out the spa at any resort I visit. The Mirabello Spa is great to elevate an already relaxed stay or calm from a family break and a treatment here is worth it. If you don’t fancy a treatment (they offer both face and body ones), the spa also has an indoor heated pool and jacuzzi to unwind in.
Activities
My sister and I loved the tennis courts, which are easy to book via the hotel’s reception. If water sports are more your thing, there’s also a range of activities available, including snorkelling and diving — if you’re braver than me. And for big kids and small, there’s a huge water park on site too.
To stay at the Zeus Eleva Mirabello Bay in a Deluxe Room with Garden View for 2 people, B&B starts at £151 per night. For more info, click here.
Other things to do…
The location is a real highlight: close to bars, restaurants and lovely walking routes, with a beautiful beach right on the doorstep.
Boat trips to Spinalonga Island
It feels almost criminal to visit such a beautiful part of the world without exploring its history, so we paid a visit to Spinalonga Island. It’s a small island just off the Mirabello Bay coastline, with an eerie past as one of Europe’s last leper colonies, its abandoned houses still standing. My sister and I did a self-guided tour after the quick (and very scenic) boat ride over, and it was fascinating to learn more about the island’s history.
Agios Nikolaos
A visit to the town is a must. It’s quiet, but full of little tavernas and shops to stock up on postcards, ceramics and sweet treats.
We also headed out on guided tour to explore the villages and the stunning Monastery of Kremast, which was so peaceful. Even if you aren’t a big history geek, it’s worth a visit, even if for the sweet gift shop on site.
