Crete in Silk & Sunlight: A 2-Week Luxury Escape Through Crete’s Most Elegant Corners

Check in to Domes Zeen, where sleek architecture and earthy tones meet the sea. After freshening up, head to the Venetian Harbor for a glass of Assyrtiko and dinner at Pallas, a waterfront fine dining favorite.

Morning walk through Old Town Chania, visiting leather ateliers and bakeries like To Stachi. In the afternoon, reserve a lounger at Ammos & Almyra for champagne service and Aegean views. Dinner is at Serenissima, a romantic hideaway tucked inside a 15th-century building.

Charter a private boat or 4x4 to the surreal Balos Lagoon, or opt for a local wine tasting at Manousakis Winery. Light lunch with a view. Dinner back at the hotel’s Enino Gastronomy restaurant, overlooking the pool and sea.

Transfer to Rethymno (1.5 hrs). Check into Nautilux for beachfront luxury or Rimondi Boutique Hotel for restored Venetian elegance. Explore Fortezza Castle. Dinner at Avli, a dreamy courtyard restaurant known for its Cretan tasting menu.

Wake up slow. Walk along the promenade, then explore the Archaeological Museum or Historical & Folklore Museum. Afternoon olive oil tasting at Paraschakis Olive Oil Estate. Dinner at Prima Plora, perched above the sea with sunset views and fresh-caught fish.

Sail the coast with a private catamaran charter—optional snorkeling or beach stops included. Not feeling nautical? Book a full-body treatment at Aegeo Spa. Dinner at Hasika, known for refined modern Cretan cuisine and a stunning wine list.

Spend the day exploring Rethymno’s boutiques for artisanal pieces—from hand-loomed textiles to local ceramics. Espresso stop at Living Room Café. Dinner at Ma Douce, an upscale bistro with French-Cretan fusion flair.

Private transfer to Preveli Beach or the pink-hued sands of Elafonissi. Picnic packed by your hotel. Return late for dinner under the stars at Rimondi’s private courtyard restaurant or beachside at Nautilux.

Drive east (3 hours) to Elounda, one of Crete’s most elite enclaves. Choose between barefoot luxury at Phāea Blue or full-privacy suites at Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas. Light dinner at Kanali, floating above the lagoon.

Boat day to Spinalonga Island, filled with Venetian ruins and turquoise waters. Return for spa time. Dinner at Old Mill at Elounda Mare, one of the most romantic tables in Crete—reserve well in advance.

Lounge at your private pool or the resort’s beachfront cabanas. Afternoon massage or private yoga. In the evening, dress up for a fine dining experience at Il Borro Tuscan Bistro Elounda. This restaurant offers refined Italian cuisine under the stars. Or try The Ferryman, known for its upscale Greek coastal dishes and elite clientele (even Meryl Streep dined here during the filming of Mamma Mia). Reserve well in advance.

Take a short morning hike above Elounda for panoramic views—or for the truly luxe: a private helicopter charter over Crete’s coast. Light mezze lunch and wine.

Fly to Athens (HER—ATH). Check in to A77 Suites or Perianth Hotel, depending on your style: neoclassical charm or modern minimalism. Light dinner and rooftop drinks at Hytra.

Early entry to The Acropolis with a private guide. Stop by the Museum of Cycladic Art or shop in Kolonaki. Espresso and pistachio gelato in Plaka. Final dinner at Spondi, a Michelin-starred feast to end your trip.

Transfer to Athens International Airport (ATH). Option for farewell breakfast at the hotel or take-away luxury picnic for the plane.