Soak up the ocean views at this chic coastal resort on the island of Crete

Words: Luciana Bellini

There are plenty of great things that came out of the 1970s: disco music, pocket calculators, lava lamps. And Grecotel LUXME White, which was originally built on the northern coast of the Greek island of Crete in 1975. Back then it was known as the El Greco hotel, but a major overhaul in 2013 led to it being rechristened as The White Palace and now LUXME White.

It’s certainly a fitting name for the property, which follows a white-on-white colour scheme throughout, from the resort’s gleaming facade to the open-plan reception area, which overlooks the sea. Those glorious sea views are another thing you can thank the 1970s for. In those days, hotels in Greece could be built right on the water, rather than being forced to follow today’s strict 25-metre coastal setback rule. The hotel certainly makes the most of that advantage, with rooms and restaurants opening right out on to the big blue.

 

Its proximity to the ocean lends the resort a certain rustic coastal charm, where it’s all about embracing the sand between your toes and the sea salt in your hair. Days are spent lounging on the beach or by one of the sleek saltwater pools – there are two to choose from, as well as a dedicated kids’ pool. Little ones can be entertained at the Grecoland kids’ club while adults will happily while away the afternoon at the Hippie Spa, where you can book muscle-melting massages and glow-inducing facials.

As for the evenings, there’s the requisite breakfast and dinner buffet on offer each day, but as part of Grecotel’s LUXME all-inclusive offering you also get access to the hotel’s range of à la carte restaurants, the best of which are perched right on the seafront. There you can choose from sushi and noodles at Asia White, grilled Greek dishes at Tavernaki or lobster and sparkling wine at Lobsteria.

Afterwards, it’s time to head to the Sunset Lounge Bar where, as the name suggests, you can watch one of the finest sunsets on the island. You soon come to realise that isn’t even the main event, though, as every night the lounge also hosts brilliant live entertainment, from mellow live pop music to traditional Cretan dancing – complete with mandatory audience participation.

I can think of few finer things than twirling under a blanket of stars as you try to master the fast-paced steps of the Pentozali. I can’t say I managed it, but I’ll certainly be back to give it another try.

grecotel.com