“A seaside sanctuary where luxury meets the laid-back Cretan spirit. With earthy designs and a vibrant pulse, every corner invites relaxation and entertainment. Boasting individual pools, DJ-led nights, and culinary delights, it's a slice of heaven. The perfect spot for an adult-only blissful stay.”

Hotel review

Modelled on a traditional Greek village, this low-rise hotel sits unobtrusively within the surrounding landscape – the mountains of Ierapetra on one side, the Libyan Sea on the other. Inside it’s equally easy-on-the-eye, with a restrained palette and abundant use of local materials including stone, marble and woven grasses. The main restaurant, Tamarisk, is buffet service at breakfast and dinner, but there’s also a (superior) a la carte menu at lunch and the evenings-only Menoa, which serves a Peruvian-Japanese inspired menu. The main pool is surrounded by striped loungers and soundtracked by daily DJ sets, while a second ‘quiet’ pool is set-back within peaceful gardens. Many rooms also have private splash pools, but all are spacious and several suitable for disabled guests. Bedrooms feature in-room sinks – a shower and WC separated behind frosted glass – equipped with Olive Era toiletries plus pleasing extras, like eye masks. Service is exceptional – attentive, and always friendly – as are the facilities. In addition to the welcoming spa and a gym-slash-yoga space offering free classes, there’s an outdoor cinema where drinks and popcorn can be ordered at the push of a button.

Orla Thomas
Orla Thomas Review published: 03/17/2023

Recommended for

  • Beach Life

    • Bask in the glow of Crete's sun on serene shores, where private pools offer an intimate seaside escapism
  • Honeymoons

    • Under starlit skies, sip chilled cocktails on cosy terraces, crafting unforgettable moments of romance
  • Sights nearby

    • Dive into history with a day trip to Knossos, tracing the labyrinthine paths of ancient Minoan royalty
  • Sailing

    • Set sail for Chrissi Island's golden sands, a paradise for those who adore the sea's embrace
  • Restaurant

    • Awaken your taste buds with inventive Cretan cuisine, where local flavours dance with Mediterranean flair
  • Hotel Entertainment

    • Sip on bespoke cocktails as the sun dips, with a backdrop of DJs spinning tranquil deep house tunes
  • Wildlife Area

    • Embark on a jeep safari adventure, exploring Crete's rugged landscapes and hidden natural jewels
  • Other Activities

    • Experience the zenith of relaxation at a spa, where the harmonies of nature rejuvenate your soul
  • Rooms with balcony/terrace

    • The accommodation offers balconies or terraces
  • Restrictions on children

    • Children over 16 are welcome
  • Sit-out Terrace

  • Lively

  • Gourmet

  • Eco

  • Spa

  • Romantic

  • Luxury

  • Wellbeing

  • Disabled access

  • On an island

  • Gym

Facilities

  • Rooms

    132 rooms in this hotel
  • Restaurant

    Awaken your taste buds with inventive Cretan cuisine, where local flavours dance with Mediterranean flair
  • Rooms with balcony/terrace

    The accommodation offers balconies or terraces
  • Swimming Pool

    Enjoy a cocktail at the pool and beach bar
  • Parking

    Free on-site parking is available
  • Restrictions on children

    Children over 16 are welcome
  • Sit-out Terrace

  • No pets

  • Massage

  • Adult Only

  • Bar

  • Wifi

  • Concierge

  • Suites

  • Disabled access

  • Gym

  • Garden

  • Spa

Activities

  • Sights nearby

    • Dive into history with a day trip to Knossos, tracing the labyrinthine paths of ancient Minoan royalty
  • Sailing

    • Set sail for Chrissi Island's golden sands, a paradise for those who adore the sea's embrace
  • Hotel Entertainment

    • Sip on bespoke cocktails as the sun dips, with a backdrop of DJs spinning tranquil deep house tunes
  • Wildlife Area

    • Embark on a jeep safari adventure, exploring Crete's rugged landscapes and hidden natural jewels
  • Other Activities

    • Experience the zenith of relaxation at a spa, where the harmonies of nature rejuvenate your soul

Map & Location

Other reviews

Numo Ierapetra

Hidden behind high walls near the sun-baked town of Ierapetra, this haven by the sea is clustered around two medium-sized pools and surrounded by clipped lawns. It has a strong boho vibe with yoga by the pool and a delightful open-air cinema.

Originally published by The Telegraph

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.