Blue Palace Elounda

The most feted five-star hotel on Crete, Blue Palace is a consistent crowd-pleaser (albeit a crowd with very high standards).

The setting on a wide pebble beach is secluded and serene. Just beyond the opulent resorts of Elounda, several tiers of boxy buildings rise above the gulf of Mirabello. The views of the little island of Spinalonga are magical, especially from the veranda of the Arsenali bar at dusk.

Rooms, suites, and bungalows vary considerably in style, size and outlook. Facilities are plentiful, if occasionally a little dated, with all the thoughtful touches you would expect from a Luxury Collection resort.