Tui Sensimar Elounda Village Resort & Spa by Aquila

A combination of high-end elegance and rustic accents dominate at Tui Sensimar Elounda Village Resort & Spa by Aquila -- an adult-only luxury beachfront property popular with couples and honeymooners. Handsome wood and stone are the main decorative themes both inside and out, while high arched ceilings in the lobby and lobby bar add dramatic flair. Despite being relatively large at 238 rooms, it manages to maintain an intimate atmosphere. For instance, the charming private beachfront, set over a series of stone levels gradually descending to the sea, offers plenty of cozy, secluded corners particularly romantic at sunset. A hillside setting guarantees gorgeous views -- and those looking southeast over the bay and the rugged Sitia mountain range are especially breathtaking. 

Before being developed for tourism, Elounda was a humble fishing village. Now, it's been transformed into Crete’s exclusive playground for A-list public figures and former heads of state. It has Greece’s densest collection of luxury hotels, and although this property fits right in, it’s not an over-the-top luxury that’s lost touch with reality. Tui Sensimar Elounda Village Resort & Spa by Aquila is located down a long road winding through a collection of resorts and hotels, at the top of a hill in the Gulf of Elounda. There isn’t much within walking distance, but Elounda’s town center, where there are myriad restaurants and bars, is just a 10-minute drive. It’s equidistant from both the pretty fishing village of Plaka, and the more developed Agios Nikolaos -- both a 19-minute drive. Heraklion International Airport is just over an hour drive west. 

With 13 different categories, picking a room may get a bit confusing, but all are modern and comfortable with warm wood accents. Accommodation is split into Standard Rooms, Junior Suites, Bungalows, and Maisonettes. All have furnished outdoor spaces (some with sea views), bathrobes and slippers, pillow menus, tea and coffee facilities, welcome fruit and wine, a minibar, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are clean and modern with elegant neutral tiling, and some have handsome marble sinks and tubs. Open plan tubs in higher category rooms spice up the stay for couples. Some rooms come with private or shared pools. Higher category rooms have organic Korres toiletries and receive special privileges including VIP check-in, upgraded welcome gifts, and turndown service. 

Although it’s recommended to get out and explore the hotel’s surrounding area, there are ample facilities on-site offering plenty to do. Three interconnected outdoor pools are set over three different levels with beautiful views overlooking the bay, and a tranquil heated indoor pool is free for guests. The private beach is small, but charming, with ample secluded corners allowing for intimacy, waiter service, and a popular beach bar serving light bites. A water sports-kiosk offers Jet Skiing, paddle boats, and more, while the hotel’s excellent on-site diving school is a destination in itself. 

Food quality and variety is another major highlight, and continuously praised by guests. The main buffet restaurant has 13 different olive oils for a start, and serves international and local cuisine on a 14-day rotation -- those staying for two weeks won’t see the same meals twice. Guests on the all-inclusive plan can dine for free at the themed restaurants. Culinarium, set in the gardens with a cozy traditional vibe, serves tasty meat and Greek specialties. The romantic beachfront restaurant specializes in seafood. Firepit is a newer dining concept offering the option of a self-grilling menu for couples in an intimate setting. 

The lobby bar has an excellent selection of drinks, and even the tea menu is extensive, with a myriad of locally sourced herbals themed around wellness and health. Dinner and entertainment nights are paired together, and include a free beach party, gala night, barbecue night, and an enjoyable Greek night with traditional dancing. A wealth of hosted activities: yoga and stretching, cooking courses, olive oil tastings, and village walks are popular. An elegant spa with separate wet and dry areas, two different temperature saunas, an ice fountain and steam room, and various treatments enables relaxation. Various sports facilities including tennis courts, billiards room, and petanque round out things to do. There’s free Wi-Fi throughout, as well as free private parking.