A Slow Summer in Crete, Greece
May | 2025
Crete is one of those destinations that offers the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration. Travelling with my sister, we spent our days balancing slow mornings by the pool with exploring charming villages and lesser known spots. From sunset dinners to scenic coastal walks, it was the perfect trip for a slower more relaxed summer getaway.
Arriving in Crete
We flew into Heraklion Airport, where our pre booked taxi driver was already waiting for us. I would definitely recommend arranging this in advance, as taxi prices can be quite expensive otherwise. The drive to our hotel, Domes Aulus Elounda, took just under an hour and gave us our first glimpse of Crete’s beautiful coastline.
On arrival, we were warmly welcomed by the reception team with a refreshing drink; which in my opinion is always a nice touch. We grabbed a late lunch at the pool bar before checking into our room, then spent the afternoon unpacking and unwinding.
Get to know Domes Aulus Elounda
Domes Aulus Elounda is a 5-star adults only resort, with a relaxed yet modern feel to it, offering beautiful sea views and equally stunning designed spaces.
We enjoyed everything from leisurely breakfasts to poolside lunches and relaxed evening meals with a choice from a variety of restaurants and bars on site. The best part is that it is all inclusive, with everything from drinks to daily meals and snacks included. For those who upgrade to the Cool Living Experience, there is the added treat of Greco Levante, which quickly became one of our favourite spots at the hotel.
Located on the rooftop, Greco Levante offers breathtaking views of the sea. The menu changes throughout the week with themed evenings, giving you the chance to try a variety of dishes. Beyond the fantastic dining, the rooftop also features its own pool, sun beds and bar, completely separate from the rest of the resort, creating a serene and exclusive retreat.
Exploring Elounda
We chose Elounda for its quieter, more relaxed feel. If you love the idea of Greece but want to avoid the crowds often found in places like Santorini or Mykonos, Elounda is a great alternative. Below are just a few of the highlights we explored during our stay:
Elounda Main Square
The heart of the village and a great place to start exploring, with a relaxed atmosphere and easy access to shops, cafés, and the waterfront.Local Boutiques and Shops
Wander through charming stores selling ceramics, clothing, jewellery, and souvenirs. A standout stop was Venus, a beautiful boutique known for its silk pieces and friendly owner.Waterfront Walks
Take your time strolling along the seafront, soaking in views across the bay and watching local life unfold.Traditional Greek Taverns
Stop for lunch at a waterside taverna like Poulis Restaurant, where you can enjoy classic dishes such as souvlaki and gyros in a relaxed setting.
Hidden gems of Eastern Crete
Day three of our trip was all about discovering a different side of the island. We spent the day on a private guided tour exploring some of the lesser known villages of Eastern Crete.
Our first stop was Agios Nikolaos, where we strolled along the promenade, browsed local shops, and took in the lively atmosphere. From there, we continued on to the Cave of Milatos, hiking through the gorge before making our way into the cave itself. Walking through the dark interior and emerging to find sweeping views over the gorge was one of the most memorable moments of the trip.
We then made a quick stop at Saint George Monastery, a peaceful and quiet spot that felt worlds away from the busier areas of the island. After that, we headed to Fourni, a small mountain village where we enjoyed a relaxed lunch at a traditional taverna and wandered through its charming streets.
Click here to book the tour: Fourni, Agios Nikolaos, Kritsa guided small group tour
This trip was in partnership with First Choice Holidays, to explore more of my itineraries and hotel recommendations head over to the First Choice Insiders Hub!
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Thanks for reading!
Lian x
