Welcomed by the Cretan sun, cold towels and The Royal Senses Resort and Spa’s refreshing signature mocktail, the warm reception into the lavish setting of marble floors and high ceilings gave us our first glimpse of the five-star hotel’s grandeur. After a swift and seamless check-in, the transfer to our room for the next few days was provided via a private golf cart, past the tennis courts and the Aqua Park, and was a thoughtful touch that set the tone for the pampering to come during our stay.
Hotel
Nestled atop a scenic hill in northwest of the island, the hotel boasts breath-taking panoramic sea views, creating a picturesque setting from virtually every vantage point. Offering four restaurants – including a Michelin star offering, three stylish bars, a rejuvenating spa, a salon, and convenient in-house shopping options, this destination provides everything you need under one roof.
Standing tall above sea level, with 178 rooms, with some featuring exclusive access to private pools filled with refreshing seawater, despite its elevated position the property maintains a seamless connection to the sea, ensuring guests never feel distanced from its allure. For those seeking a genuine seaside escape, a complimentary hotel bus runs every thirty minutes, effortlessly transporting guests to the beach.
Rooms and suites
We stayed in a luxurious villa which benefitted from a private infinity pool, outdoor showers, and plush sunbeds. The experience of a private dip suspended above sea level, with a view, added an air of exclusivity to the experience. Our panoramic view from the terrace was breath-taking – the same view could be seen from the bed and even the shower, making you feel like you were outdoors the whole time.
Designed like a high-spec duplex apartment, the room could accommodate up to five guests across the levels with a sofa and dining area, dressing room and three elegantly appointed shower rooms. The overall design exuded sophistication, elegance and comfort and I highly recommend lying on the private snugs in the evening, allowing you to watch the stars at night.
Food and drink
With a plethora of restaurants that cater to every whim, taste and preference, dining here was a true experience to be had. Once I informed the concierge team of my nut allergy, they booked a meeting with the restaurant chef who showed me what I could eat in the buffet. The main restaurant, Gea, consisted of large buffet-style dining where guests can dine for breakfast and dinner. Here, you had the option of freshly made meals and cold and hot options. We ate here mostly and tried the pop-up restaurant, Platia for lunch where we enjoyed Cretan meze, consisting of small plates and a glass of local wine. We got to try their signature digestive, Raki, an alcoholic drink made from distilled grapes. I highly recommend this.
Mitato is their in-house Cretan restaurant which serves a choice of Cretan courses and lamb dishes. For meat lovers, this place has a great menu of hearty meals ranging from lamb to steaks and veal.
Cretemos, the A la Carte restaurant led by Michelin-starred chef Pavlos Kiriakis, elevated dining to new heights. Each dish was truly a masterpiece created from a fusion of local flavours, with a touch of Mediterranean flair. Every bite left my taste buds dancing and was a journey through the flavours of the region. The impeccable service and the exquisite ambience of the restaurant added an extra layer of refinement to an already extraordinary dining experience. With four restaurants to choose from, the options were as diverse as they were delicious.
Evenings were a delight, accompanied by live performers and signature cocktails crafted with infused fruits in the hotel’s mixology labs. The entertainment, combined with the breath-taking views, friendly guests and endless dining options made the stay even more special.
Spa
The Royal Senses’ in-house spa overlooks the adults-only poolside, where you will experience a tranquil retreat away from the main hotel. Each guest is offered a complimentary pass to a blissful escape which will give them access to the gym, treatment rooms and a heated hydro pool filled with salt water. For me, the solitude was a luxury in itself – the spa’s serenity was heightened by the scarcity of guests in the afternoon, allowing me to immerse myself in rejuvenating treatments with an unparalleled sense of privacy.
As the largest spa in Crete, you can tell the resort has ensured to make their spa a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether travelling with family or seeking a solo retreat, this oasis offers a perfect blend of luxury and tranquillity. The expansive spa facilities, coupled with the serene surroundings, make it an ideal destination to unwind and revitalise, ensuring a memorable and rejuvenating stay for every guest.
To do
For those looking for adventure, the concierge and VIP team will be your adventure guides, arranging excursions, renting cars, and even coordinating travel. For families, a dedicated park and tennis court added more layers of enjoyment for children allowing parents to relax in peace without worry.
In a nutshell
The Royal Senses Resort and Spa Crete is not merely a hotel; it is a destination that transcends the ordinary. From the regal accommodations and private plunge pools to the serene spa and Michelin-starred dining, every facet of this retreat is crafted with an unwavering commitment to luxury. My stay was nothing short of a symphony for the senses, a harmonious blend of opulence and relaxation that has set a new standard for my future travels.
Factbox
Address: Herakliou 58 km, Panormos 740 57, Greece
Phone: +30 2834 055002
Website: hilton.com
All imagery credit: The Royal Senses Resort and Spa Crete, Curio Collection by Hilton
