I only blog about hotels that we really love and Elounda Peninsula All Suites Hotel in Crete is one of these. As a matter of fact, we stayed here for the third time in September 2023. We found it even more wonderful than we remembered.
This year, we stayed for six days. The plan was to stay for three more days in Crete at Elounda Peninsula Hotel. Afterwards, we would take the ferry to Amorgos Island for another three days. Unfortunately, there was a ferry strike. We were unable to book another ferry in time to actually enjoy three days in Amorgos. So instead, we continued our stay here. On the one hand, we were devastated as we were really looking forward to exploring Amorgos. On the other hand, we were elated. We were having a great time. We were excited to stay here for three more days! (Photos are from 2019 and 2021 and 2023).
Location of Elounda Peninsula Hotel
Elounda Peninsula All Suites Hotel is located in Eastern Crete along the Mirabello Bay. It is also just a few miles north of Agios Nikolas.
Elounda Peninsula Hotel
This luxury hotel has a variety of accommodations. Therefore, you are sure to find it to be the perfect place for you. The hotel is designed so that all rooms have a sea view and private balcony. Some also include a pool. Plus, there are villas with multiple bedrooms. The complex looks like a charming Greek Village complete with stone walkways with gardens of greenery and bougainvillea flowers. There are also several top notch restaurants and a top of the line spa. In addition, this hotel boasts a beautiful private sandy beach, pools, a golf course, shops, and also various water sports. Although our children are adults, we noticed there is a children’s area. There are also plenty of activities to keep little ones busy.
I must shout out to the concierge as he was so very helpful. Since our Greek is quite rudimentary, he made phone calls for us. He spent so much time trying to secure a ferry a day later. Once we found out that wasn’t possible, he called. He was able to extend our car rental for another three days. Plus on top of this, we needed to move to a different but same type of room. He arranged for our belongings to be taken to the new room while we were out and about. Consequently, this made the transition seamless for us. We so appreciated this. He totally went above and beyond. Although the staff here consistently exceeded our expectations, this all really wowed us.
The Lobby
First impressions always mean a lot and the first impression of Elounda Peninsula Hotel is always a feeling of welcoming. The staff is warm, friendly, and knowledgeable and the ambiance is that of elegant comfort. The concierge is fantastic and is also a wealth of information. The open spiral staircase is beautiful and a showcase of its own. All in all, the lobby is the beginning of the amazing Cretan hospitality you will find at this resort! We also love each time we are here. We think it is perfect. While here, we find out there have been some great updates. The rooms, facility, and restaurants have new features. These updates make it even more perfect.
Tapestries
The tapestries throughout the hotel really impressed me. I enjoy quilting and also embroidery and these are definitely masterpieces to me. My understanding is that these are all quite historic and depict true Crete handiwork. There were several of these framed and displayed in many areas.
Our Room 2023 Peninsula Collection Suites
This trip we stayed in the Peninsula Collection Suites. This is a spectacular room, although we have loved each room we have stayed in. All in all, I think this is my favorite. The room is two stories with the bedroom and a large bathroom upstairs. The showcase is a nice sized balcony that overlooks Mirabella Bay. The main floor has a sitting room, another bathroom and sliders out to the patio and your own pool! An absolutely wonderful room.
Our Room 2021 Peninsula Grand Villa
In 2021 we had booked a room in the Peninsula Collection Suites which we were really looking forward to. Much to our surprise and also gratitude, we were upgraded to a Peninsula Grand Villa unit. We have know idea why we were upgraded but it was appreciated. The Grand Villa was so amazing. The luxury and comfort was second to none. The rooms were very spacious and we felt at home here. There was also a pool which we enjoyed a swim in. Above all, the view was spectacular.
Our Room 2019 Junior Suite
In 2019 we stayed in a Junior Suite with a great view. Our room was very spacious and luxurious. There was nothing more we could want. The room showcased large windows so we could see the beautiful view at all times. The bathroom hosted an air jet tub and massage shower. Both felt glorious. The bed faced the windows and was very comfortable. The sitting area also faced the windows. Outside on our spacious deck, the lounge chairs were perfect for relaxing. The table was a great spot to sip a glass of wine.
Breakfast
In the morning, the bountiful breakfast started our day. It included delicious fruits, pastries, breads, yogurts, and cereals. There was almost everything you can think of. The views are also outstanding. The staff is very friendly and greeted us with a pleasant Kalimera each morning. I enjoyed practicing my Greek with them as they were patient and helpful. By our second day, the waitress already remembered our preferences.
Beaches/Pools
Spending time at the beach and pool is amazing. There are wading pools near the beach bar which are relaxing and peaceful.
Our favorite though is the beach. It is almost completely surrounded by a patio with lounge chairs. It is an incomplete circular shape around the water. Although it is a sandy beach and continues to the sea, it feels more like a pool. The design of the beaches and the pools are really a work of art! We enjoyed a lot of relaxation here. We also enjoyed the prompt service of our drinks and food. Truly memorable in every way.
Snorkeling and Jet Skiing
In 2019 we had a great time snorkeling and Jet Skiing. Unfortunately, it was too chilly in 2021 for us to jet ski. We were more into relaxing in 2023, although we did a bit of snorkeling. Regardless, this resort is perfect for water activities.
Golf
My husband is an avid golfer and enjoys golfing weekly back home when weather permits. He was thrilled he had the chance to golf here, right on the premises! He did not bring his clubs. The staff set him up. He enjoyed an afternoon playing, even though it was just him! It is a 9 hole, par 3 executive course. Steve voiced that it was a perfect way for him to relax and have some time to himself! I believe Elounda Peninsula Hotel is the home of 1 of 2 golf courses in Crete.
Six Senses Spa
While the husband golfed, I had an appointment for a spa treatment. I have been utilizing massage therapy for the last 20 years. I will say, this was the most luxurious and best I have ever had each time I utilized this. The minute you enter, you can tell you are in for a unique and wonderful experience. Six Senses has a wide variety of choices for spa treatments. I chose the Aegean Breeze with Salt and Olive Oil Body Treatment. I also had a deep tissue massage in 2021. In 2023 I chose a deep tissue massage and a facial. This was perfect for me after days of hiking and traveling. I was so relaxed and left feeling invigorated. Afterwards I was served hot tea while I relaxed and just enjoyed the zen environment.
Dinner
We ate almost all of our evening dinners while in Elounda at the varied restaurants located within Elounda Peninsula Hotel and they were some of our best meals while in Crete.
The Old Mill
This restaurant is set in the location of an old mill in a lovely garden along the water. We were escorted here by our water taxi. It was a nice extra touch to a romantic evening. The food was delicious and the service was impeccable. We wish we would have thought ahead and secured reservations for another night as it was such a wonderful experience.
IL Borro Tuscan Bistro
This world famous Italian Bistro was a new addition since we were here in 2021. What a great addition to the eating establishments at Elounda Peninsula. I would have never thought of eating at an Italian restaurant while in Greece but it was really wonderful. The restaurant had a DJ the night we were here who played a nice selection of background music. Sitting along the water gave a peaceful ambiance. Again, the service was perfect and the food amazing. We had such a nice time here I forgot to take pictures of our main courses! I had a filet. Steve had sea bream. We were both very pleased with the flavors and presentation.
We again had not thought ahead about reservations as we had only planned three nights here. Luckily we were able to walk in and sit at the lounge area with a limited menu two other nights. This worked very well for us. We had been exploring during the days. We did not have to worry about a reservation time.
Room Service
We are not usually room service people. We loved our room so much and enjoyed our pool. It was convenient to order many of our lunches and even dinner by room service. The food was good and the service was excellent and prompt. We enjoyed many Greek Salads at our poolside!
Beach Bar
We really enjoyed relaxing at the Beach Bar after dinner each time we stay here. The bartender is fantastic. He has been here through the years. We enjoyed chatting with him. In addition, it is a great place to relax.
Conclusion
As you can tell, we absolutely love Elounda Peninsula All Suites Hotel and it is definitely the place to stay in this area of Crete. You can also see that we ate very well!! Good thing there is a lot to do in the area to burn the calories. The resort’s location, and also the staff are second to none. In addition, everything is designed to give the consumer the best luxurious, most comfortable, and memorable experience possible. We look forward to returning in 2025! Seems like a long time to wait but it will be worth it! You can book through their web site at Elounda Peninsula All Suite Hotel.
My next few posts will cover all the fun hikes and sites we found while staying in Elounda.
Follow Me on Instagram !!!
You can also read more of my posts from my Greece Trips by clicking on the following links!!
2023 Trip
Hike to Agiofarago Beach-Sept 2023
Preveli Beach, the Easy Way-Sept 2023
Swim at Kourtaliotiko Falls-Sept 2023
Boating on the South Central Sea in Crete-Sept 2023
A Challenging hike Loutro to Marmara Beach, Crete-Sept 2023
Anopolis, Arradena Bridge and Lykos Beach in Southen Crete-Sept 2023
Aptera Crete, Closed on Tuesdays Sept 2023
Return to Chania, Crete September 2023
2022 Trip
Our Favorite Restaurants, Plaka and Athens 2022
Santorini by Dune Buggy Part 3 2022
Off the Beaten Path Tour Santorini, Sept 2022
Delfino Blu Hotel, Corfu, Sept 2022
Shopping in Old Town Corfu, Sept 2022
Exploring Old Town Corfu, Sept 2022
To the Top of Angelokastro, Sept 2022
NW Coast of Corfu by boat, Sept 2022
Exploring the Beaches of NW Corfu, Sept 2022
Hike to Giali Beach, Corfu Sept 2022
E-Bike Tour of Meteora, Greece Sept 2022
Hike to Ypapanti Monastery, Greece Sept 2022
Ancient Delphi, Greece Sept 2022
Crete 2021
Ancient City of Lato, Sept 2021
Aforesmenos Lighthouse, Crete, Sept 2021
Avli Lounge Hotel, Rethymno, Sept 2021
Matala Beach Caves, Crete, Sept 2021
Hike to Martsalos Beach, Sept 2021
The Chapel at Georgioupoli, Sept 2021
Koutalas Beach and Sea Cave, Sept 2021
A Walk Through Chania, Sept 2021
Crete 2019
Elounda Peninsula Hotel, Sept 2019
Knossos Palace, Crete Sept 2019
Seitan Limania Beach, Sept 2019
Katholiko Monastery, Sept 2019
Itineraries
10 Day Greece Itinerary, Sept 2019
8 Day Greece Itinerary, Sept 2018
The Gen-X Travels recommendations for hotels, restaurants, activities or tour companies are based on our own experiences unless noted. We are not sponsored by any business or company and all trips are at our expense. All photos are by myself or my husband unless otherwise noted. We are affiliates of some companies such as Amazon,Viator, and others which we do receive a small commission from, at no cost to you if you buy or book through one of our links.
Discover more from Diary of a Gen-X Traveler
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Amazing post and photos Gen 🙂
Thanks!! Great place!!!
What a Great looking place to stay, you guys look like your enjoying life just like David and I.
We do enjoy life!! As long we can we will keep traveling!!!
Awesome photos!
Thank you!!
First things first: happy anniversary 🎈 🎈🎈🎈🎈 I’m curious, did you find the ceilings in the rooms on the low side? I couldn’t tell (or perhaps it’s because of the open horizons 🙂)
Thanks! I found the ceiling to be normal.
Your photos look amazing, especially the sunset views! Thanks for sharing and safe travels. Aiva
Thank you!! I love sunsets!!
now I know where I want to stay if I ever get the chance to visit Crete!
It was amazing!!!
What sumptuous views mixed with luxury and a sense as u say of being in a Greek village; wonderful feel to the place, thanks! 😊
It was a great mix!!
Ya’ll are a lucky couple getting to to there; and we’re lucky readers to get to see it, truly 😊
Yes we are and we have a lot of gratitude for being able to go here, go on our trips and have our health.
💕
Gorgeous! I feel like you’ve been there for months!!
Lol! We are back home! I didn’t write much when I was there!! I wish we were there for months!!!
Glad u had a great time!! Thanks for sharing!!
Thanks for following!!!!
Hotel looks gorgeous!
It was!! Very accommodations too!