How To Do A Holiday To Crete In Serious Style
It’s in a stunning beach-front location… In the north of Crete, the largest of the Greek Islands. Conveniently, the Nana Princess is just a 20-minute transfer from Heraklion Airport – admittedly not the nicest of airports, but being met by someone from the hotel as you step off the plane certainly softens the blow. And with a flight that’s around 3 hours, 45 minutes from London, it’s a journey that’s very much doable with small people in tow.
No expense has been spared… Behind the hotel is a Greek tycoon with a taste for the finer things in life. Which is a good thing, because hotels like this don’t come cheap. He also owns the hugely successful all-inclusive Nana Beach next door, but it’s clear this is where his heart is. The hotel was built in a record five months and it was such a passion project he spent virtually every day on site ensuring it delivered on perfection.
The 112 luxe suites and villas are phenomenal… If you’re someone who gets irritated having to turn off every light in your room before you to sleep, then you have something in common with the owner. Just hit the ‘zzz’ button next to the bed to kill everything but the aircon. Just one of the little touchers that make this place unique.
Standout features in the rooms include endless storage, mattresses so exclusive you’ll only find them in two other hotels in the world, daily sheet changes, private pools, terraces and day beds, spacious bathrooms and, if you’ve gone for one of their 22 premium villas, your own personal gym and steam room.
When it comes to the food, you’re in for a treat… The hotel is home to three restaurants. At the main affair, Carpe Diem, guests can enjoy stunning views out across the sea, lavish breakfasts and exquisite five-course set menus for dinner (think artichoke velouté, smoked aubergine, fresh scallops, rack of lamb and lemon posset) thanks to Michelin-starred Greek chef, Lefteris Lazarou.
Then there’s the romantic beachfront seafood and sushi restaurant plus another dreamy spot for a light greek salad and a glass of rose or a melt in your mouth burger better than you will ever have tasted.
The wellness club alone is reason to visit… At Nana Princess, the gym is as good as it gets and the spa is one of a kind. Couple massage suites are pure heaven, and the Spa System by Starpool has to be seen to be believed – a princely concoction of steam, colours, warm baths, tropical storms, cool mist, fragrances and music to soothe, relax and purify, it’s where innovation and wellbeing combine.
Parents wanting a proper holiday won’t be disappointed... Friendly staff welcome children with open arms – from bathroom amenities and high chairs to a children’s tea you’ll struggle not to eat yourself. Babysitters for day and night can be arranged by the hotel and your children are welcome to use the kids’ club at Nana Beach next door: open from 10am-1.30pm and 3-6pm seven days a week, they’ll be safe, sound and extremely well entertained.
Other special mentions include the chic terraces with stunning views out across the sea, live pianists and salt water infinity pools – not forgetting a pool bar that’s the ideal spot to while away the afternoon drinking cocktails.
All in all? 9/10 (down a point only because it’s not in the middle of nowhere). But is it worth your time and money? For sure.
Rates start from 155 Euros per person per night in a Superior Room, visit NanaPrincess.gr
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