Blue Palace Elounda: A Cretan Holiday
Ready to deep dive into wild beauty and unravel beneath the Mediterranean sun? If so, it might just be the perfect moment to catch a flight to the Blue Palace Elounda, a luxury collection resort & spa, located on the majestic island of Crete.
The Blue Palace captures the ambiance of a Greek paradise that feels like home. Claiming 143 acres of land, this resort offers extremely unique spacious accommodations that are presented in the choice of bungalows, suites or villas – most of them including a private pool, all of them including unrivaled scenic views of the Aegean Sea and Spinalonga island. If you happen to book one of the few options without a private pool, no need to fret, the hotel has an attractive infinity pool that is heated during the cooler months as well as a beachside pool that offers soothing underwater music to aid in deeper relaxation. The resort also provides a special place for your children to play and connect at a separate pool designated for kids. If you prefer to submerge in more natural waters, The Blue Palace also grants access to an exclusive beach located on the property which is fully equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas and crystal-clear waters. You can even grab a crisp glass of wine or a light refreshing beachside bite at the ‘Isola Beach Club’.
Similar to each onsite eatery, the ‘Isola Beach Club’ exclusively uses locally sourced produce including vegetables and herbs grown in the resort’s very own garden. Take in the sites and savor the Mediterranean fare when you dine adjacent to this fruitful garden and experience what modern Greek fare means at the ‘Anthós’ concept. With a front row view of an open and airy kitchen, your eyes – and your taste buds – will be mesmerized as you witness how the culinary artists prepare your fare, all while delicious aromas waft around your table. Craving something more Cretan for dinner? The celebrated ‘Blue Door Restaurant’ features well-kept family recipes, signature seafood and the must try ‘catch of the day’ local option. In house Creative Consultant Chef Athinagoras Kostakos and Executive Chef Alexandros Lefkaditis truly deliver culinary excellence when it comes to high quality food paired with menus inspired by the local and unique characteristics of the island. To ensure variety, the resort also serves up decadence from several other eateries including ‘Asia Deep Blue’, a fusion restaurant offering a range of Japanese and Thai inspired dishes.
If you feel called to explore beyond The Blue Palace’s walls, the location has great access to other restaurants and small, quaint shops. Just a five-minute cab ride away is Elounda, a simple fishing village with plenty of restaurants serving up homemade fare. ‘The Lotus Eaters Mediterranean Restaurant’ is arguably the best spot on the harbor. Just a short beach stroll away is the quaint village of Plaka, where you can find additional restaurants and gift shops.
While there is much to do around the resort, Blue Palace also offers an endless amount of activities and arranges everything from scuba diving to water-skiing, surfing, snorkeling and sailing to fill your days fun that will turn into everlasting memories. You can even challenge a friend or family member to an outdoor tennis match or see who dominates at table tennis. Keep in shape after enjoying some dessert – you’re on vacation after all – when you visit the state-of-the-art machines in the fitness center. Sign up for one of their noteworthy jogging trails or enjoy the elegant spa that offers an array of serene services.
If gorgeous backdrops and relaxing vibes are the epitome of a Mediterranean getaway, then you might just want these vibes on your wedding day. What better way to say ‘I do’ or renew your vows than allowing the attentive ceremonial experts of the Blue Palace help plan your special day with ease. The charming chapel of Saint Titus, Agios Titos, is a picturesque venue for your sacred ceremony. Couples who marry at the chapel are invited to plant an olive tree on the resort’s grounds as a symbol of long life and fertility. This is also an invitation to revisit your growing tree on special occasions, anniversaries or anytime you feel called back to the Blue Palace. This is a Cretan way of making a special moment flourish for a lifetime.
Experience warm hospitality and commitment to an authentic Greek experience at the Blue Palace. You will not regret escaping it all when you escape to this seaside paradise.
Marriott.com
