Domes Noruz Chania, Autograph Collection
Set just outside Chania in Crete’s honeyed north-west, this adults-only hotel provides a front-row seat to the sparkling Aegean, two pools, a capacious spa and wellness centre, an appetising handful of bars and restaurants, and a slew of giant beanbags for lounging in the sunshine.
Choosing a room here is no easy task. Some open onto the inviting blue waters of the Aegean Sea, others towards one of the two pools. All, however, are uniformly luxurious, with either plunge pools, jacuzzis or private pools, Nespresso coffee machines, hammocks or rocking chairs, plenty mirrors and lighting, and minibars stocked with healthy snacks and vitamins. The two-storey Sublime Loft suites with plunge pools facing the hotel’s ‘quiet zone’ and terraces facing the sea and the main pool are particularly appealing.
Both pools are alluring too. One is in the quiet zone closer to reception, the other is by the beach and has a swim-up bar, panoramic sea views and a DJ at sunset. The subterranean Soma Spa offers couples’ massages, facials, eye treatments and even massage lessons, while the fitness centre provides outdoor sessions with a personal trainer.
It’s all in keeping with the hip and healthy vibe that permeates the hotel. This extends to the restaurants, from the beetroot and kale smoothies on offer at breakfast in the all-day Topos Restaurant, to the sushi and champagne provided by the pool at the beachfront Raw Bar. OK, OK, so the Moët & Chandon isn’t strictly that healthy, but you’re on holiday after all.
