Elounda Gulf Villas
With just 15 suites and 18 pool villas, Elounda Gulf Villas has all the privacy and charm you’d hope for from a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. No wonder it’s a magnet for camera-shy celebrities looking to escape the crowds around elegant Elounda.
Elounda Gulf Villas clings to a steep hillside above the sparkling Aegean, just over half a mile from Elounda’s shops and restaurants on Crete’s north-east coast. Buildings peek out from a forest of palm trees and exotic plants and offer panoramic views across Mirabello Bay.
The 15 exquisite suites are decorated in soothing colours, have a balcony or terrace and are close to the main pool. The newer Pool Suites come with a private heated pool, while the 18 villas sleep from three to eight people and come with private pools and expansive sea views. Some have built-in spa facilities like a fitness room and sauna, while the Royal Spa Pool Villa – the jewel in the resort’s crown – is a long-time favourite among royalty, politicians and celebrities.
The Argo Restaurant is open all day, serving food that’s as good as the sea views it offers. A private shuttle makes the ten-minute journey to the resort’s private beach club, an inviting strip of sand with comfortable sun loungers and staff serving drinks and light snacks.
