Set on twenty acres of landscaped gardens overlooking Mirabello Bay, on Crete’s northeast coast, the Elounda Bay Palace is a haven for watersports aficionados. There is a fully equipped activities center offering sailing, water-skiing, windsurfing, jet skiing and scuba-diving excursions.

For a more relaxed pace, the resort features private sand beaches, several swimming pools and the al fresco lunch restaurant, Ariadne Tavern. The sparkling panorama takes center stage at the open-air Sail-In Bar. Families traveling with kids will appreciate the many childfriendly activities, and a dedicated pool where junior guests can play. Extra special is the concierge where the experienced team arranges everything from babysitting and beauty salon services, to helicopter or private jet hire.