Domes of Elounda

Domes of Elounda is nestled in pretty gardens by the Aegean, within walking distance of the authentic Cretan village of Plaka, and a short drive from Elounda (10 minutes away) and Agios Nikolaos (20 minutes away).

The modern and contemporary suites and villas feature handpicked furniture and marble and granite bathrooms, and have been styled in sleek natural tones of cream, beige and charcoal that stand out against the whitewashed walls. Oversized windows, balconies and verandas have gorgeous views over the gardens and the ocean - take them in from the Jacuzzi or your private pool. The two-bedroom family suites are ideal for those holidaying with children.

The Core Residences (part of the Haute Living Selection) are also ideal for families or couples and friends traveling together. The two to four-bedroom villas are the epitome of luxury, and you can indulge in Haute Living services including villa managers and concierges who will take care of every detail during your stay, access to a luxury lounge, complimentary cocktails and canapés, and your own pre-booked sun lounger in an exclusive area of the beach.

There are also the Core Open Plan Suites with Outdoor Jacuzzi (part of the Suites Selection), which are perfect for couples, offering plush beds, deluxe bathrooms, plenty of privacy and a spacious terrace.

Try the delicious Greek cuisine at Tholos (which means 'Dome' in Greek), or tuck into exquisite Peruvian-Japanese dishes at Yaosai while enjoying the sea views. The Blend restaurant serves up Italian classics such as pasta and pizza, alongside an impressive wine list, and don't miss CORE, a buzzing open-air space with a range of pop-up restaurants serving up tempting treats such as gourmet ice cream. If you fancy dining out, check out the local tavernas in nearby Plaka.

There are bars and lounges by the pools and on the beach, and in the evening, linger over a cocktail on the bar's terrace as the sun sets, and chill out to the smooth sounds of jazz.

The spa and wellness centre is simply fabulous - it has a sauna, a hammam and treatment rooms, as well as a fitness centre and a striking black mosaic seawater pool. There is a huge seawater family pool next to CORE, and a serene freshwater adults-only pool looking out over the coast and the island of Spinalonga.

As well as tennis, cycling, snorkelling, surfing, windsurfing and more, sail around the bay in a traditional boat, and visit the fascinating Spinalonga - explore with a private guide to make the most of it. One of the last leper colonies in Europe and also home to a historic fortress, it is the setting for Victoria Hislop's bestselling novel The Island.

Back at the hotel, enjoy a range of workshops, events and concerts at CORE, which also has shops and an open-air cinema where you can watch movies under the stars. There is plenty for children of all ages, from kids clubs and adventure playgrounds to treasure hunts and arts and crafts.

Alternatively, simply relax on the private stretch of sandy beach: sand beaches are a rarity in this area, and this one is picture perfect, framed by olive trees and the greenest of gardens.