Romantic Crete, the perfect couples’ retreat

From honeymoon escapes and diamond anniversaries to first dates and magical proposals, fall in love all over again on the beautiful Agios Nikolaos, in one of the best honeymoon hotels in Crete, Minos Palace hotels and Suites.

How to celebrate love with your significant other.

For a peaceful morning in the Cretan countryside, a visit to the Votania Herbs Farm is highly recommended. Explore the herb fields and inhale the heady fragrances of safe, rosemary, dittany, thyme and lemon balm on the breeze. Next, escape the hot midday sun in the cool interior of one of the most important Byzantine churches on Crete, the Panagia Kera (the Madonna of the Creation) in the village of Kritsa. The beautiful church dates to the 13th century and contains the best preserved frescoes on the island, depicting scenes from the New Testament and life of the Virgin Mary.

Of course no visit to the eastern end of Crete would be complete without a trip to Spinalonga, which is only a few minutes away from Minos Palace. Whilst the history of the site is less than romantic, being as it was a leper colony for many years, the tiny island has a number of perfect beaches and crystal clear waters perfect for snorkelling. Spinalonga faces east, so sunset-worshippers are advised to become sunrise-worshippers, and head out early in the morning for spectacular morning views over the sea!

For day-trippers, take a leisurely drive two hours west and discover the Vai palm grove – totally unknown until the early 1970s when Bounty chocolate used it as the backdrop for one of their tropical adverts. However, don’t be fooled -the Vai palm trees produce dates, not coconuts! The palm grove is the largest in Europe, featuring over 5000 trees which, according to legend, grew from discarded date stones thrown into the sea by Saracen pirates.

Finally, experience the ultimate in luxury relaxation with a romantic spa treatment at the Ananea Wellness by Aegeo Spa in the Sensimar Minos Palace hotel! Treat your loved one to the ‘Cretan Experience’, a 70 minute body scrub with olive oil and therapeutic massage, or the ‘Mediterranean Wellness’ package, incorporating an anti-stress massage and aloe vera facial treatment.

Book your stay at the Sensimar Minos Palace and discover the romance of Crete!