A Spring Escape to Crete

In late April, just as spring was in full bloom, we traded the gray skies of London for the sun-soaked coast of Crete. From start to finish, our four-night stay in Greece was seamless, serene, and full of thoughtful touches that elevated the experience.

We kicked off our adventure with a 7 am flight out of London Gatwick. A few hours later, we touched down in Heraklion around 3 pm, greeted by warm Mediterranean air and the promise of island adventures. Renting a car from Enterprise at the airport was a breeze—quick check-in, smooth pickup—and we were off on a scenic one-hour drive along the Cretan coastline, heading toward our home for the next few days: Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection.

Luxury, charm & family-friendly hospitality at Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection

From the moment we pulled up to the property, the experience felt elevated. Valet staff greeted us with genuine warmth, handling our luggage and car with care. But the true charm began at reception. Instead of the usual front desk formalities, we were guided to a relaxed lounge area and welcomed with refreshing drinks. No standing in line, no paperwork to fuss over—just comfortable chairs, smiling faces, and a seamless check-in process handled entirely by the hotel team as we settled in.

An unexpected upgrade: Hotel goes above & beyond

We originally booked a luxury villa on a bed and breakfast rate, but to our delight, the hotel upgraded us to a half-board package. This meant daily breakfast and dinner included—an unexpected and generous touch that made the experience even more enjoyable. The villa itself was a peaceful retreat, tastefully designed with a balance of traditional Greek aesthetics and modern luxury. It quickly became our sanctuary.

The hotel didn’t stop there. Since it was our wedding anniversary and my husband’s birthday, I worked closely with the hotel manager to orchestrate a surprise. With their assistance, my husband’s brothers arrived to surprise him, and the hotel arranged a beautiful setup in our room with drinks and finger food. It was such a touching moment, showcasing the staff’s dedication to creating unforgettable experiences.

About the hotel

Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection, is more than just a luxury resort. The hotel is an expansive hillside sanctuary thoughtfully designed for both families and couples. The property is spread across a vast stretch of olive-tree-studded terrain that cascades down toward the turquoise waters of Mirabello Bay, offering uninterrupted views of the iconic Spinalonga Island.

Due to its scale and tiered layout across the hillside, navigating the resort from one end to the other isn’t something you do on foot alone—club cars are available on demand, and they’re a comfortable and efficient way to move between your suite or villa, the beach, the spa, restaurants, and kids’ areas. Whether you’re heading to breakfast or returning from a sunset cocktail, the convenience of these chauffeured buggies adds a layer of ease and exclusivity to your stay.

The hotel truly excels as a family-friendly or couples resort, offering a plethora of activities and amenities tailored for guests of all ages. The resort features an engaging Kids Club that provides hands-on experiences like gardening, promoting eco-responsibility and healthy eating in an enjoyable way.

Teenagers aren’t left out either, with dedicated clubs offering age-appropriate activities and spaces to socialize.

Parents can enjoy some well-deserved relaxation time, knowing their children are engaged and cared for by professionals adhering to high standards.

Exploring the local area: Elounda and Spinalonga Island

Tucked along Crete’s northeastern coast, Elounda blends traditional Greek charm with laid-back luxury. Its scenic harbor, local tavernas, and views across Mirabello Bay make it a peaceful and picturesque base.

A highlight of the area is the nearby Spinalonga Island, a small islet rich in history. A former Venetian fortress and leper colony that now stands as a fascinating historical site, it’s easily reached by boat and well worth a visit for its haunting beauty and rich, layered past.

Our four-night stay in Crete was short but rich with experiences. From the smooth travel logistics to the heartfelt hospitality at Domes of Elounda, every detail contributed to a truly relaxing getaway. Whether you’re seeking sunshine, culture, or simply a luxurious place to unwind, Crete in the spring—and Domes of Elounda in particular—offers it all.

We returned home refreshed, grateful, and already dreaming of our next visit.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Crete page.