Rising from Crete’s very own cerulean waters in all their Grecian glory is a collection of white villas and bungalows belonging to the Minos Beach Art Hotel.
For sun-seeking newly-weds yearning for some much-needed respite and relaxation by the sea, the Cretan resort, Minos Beach Art Hotel, is more than a safe bet.
Located only a short drive (we’re talking less than an hour) from Heraklion Airport, the resort sits within the creative hub of Agios Nikolaos. And though this town is abuzz with a thriving art scene, a marina and waterside restaurants to die for, there is still a wonderful sense of seclusion at the Minos Beach Art Hotel.
Murmurs of the beautiful Mirabello Bay echo through its map of white, lego-like villas and bungalows that embrace the traditional architecture of the isle while well-kept gardens proudly showcase native flora and fauna.
Candy-coloured skies may only appear as the sun drops, but romance reigns all day long here with floating breakfasts, couples massages, private dining experiences, tandem bikes (we dare you!) and wine master classes. So honeymooners listen up, Crete is calling.
Rooms…
Key to the luxury experience at Minos Beach Art Hotel is the sense of privacy it promises, which is ideal for newly-weds who aren’t quite ready for their wedding bubble to pop just yet. At the resort travellers have the choice of staying in individual bungalows or villas. Each has its own unique identity but to up the romance – it is your honeymoon after all – we say take the plunge and indulge in a sea-front space with a private pool.
Inside these open-plan retreats a relaxed interior mimics the earthy, rustic spirit of Crete as warming neutral tones pair with hand-crafted textiles.
Food & drink…
Inspired by the distinct Mediterranean flavours of the region, the menus on offer at the Minos Beach Art Hotel are truly an ode to the island. Expect fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, a farm-to-table philosophy and modern interpretations of dishes that have been enjoyed by locals for years.
As the sun rises and breakfast calls, we say make your way down to Bacchus for a buffet spread crammed with Grecian favourites and seasonal fruit – oh and don’t forget a Greek coffee for that all important caffeine fix.
Although breakfast is sure to fill you up, don’t miss out on lunch as Terpsis offers an al fresco experience over the bay which is the perfect stop before heading down to Pure Lounge Bar for a few afternoon cocktails.
And to end the day, once you’ve showered off the day’s sand and sunshine, throw on your favourite frock and start your evening at La Bouillabaisse, a Mediterranean fine dining experience under the stars.
Experiences…
A day at Minos Beach Art Hotel can be as calming or curious as you fancy. You can simply spend the day by the water, sipping mojitos, wandering the grounds, discovering the contemporary art collection and making your way through the Greek menus on offer.
Or for a little more adventure, the thalassophiles out there can enjoy a whole host of water activities including sailing, scuba diving, fishing, windsurfing, water-skiing, motor boat excursions and more.
And if the meditative quality of the sand and sea hasn’t quite relieved the stress from wedding preparations, unwind in a yoga session and trip to the nature-driven Aegeo spa…with or without your other half!
Sustainability…
Not only does the Minos Beach Art Hotel prioritise supporting the local community, but it’s also striving to make more responsible choices when it comes to the environment. While solar panels warm the resort’s water, a thoughtful water management system has been integrated to preserve and maintain sustainable consumption of resources.
In the re-designed guest rooms a KNX automation system has also been installed to ensure energy efficiency with control of heating, cooling, ventilation and lighting.
Prices start from €238 a night and the resort can also host weddings if you’re looking for destination venues.
Discover more about this glorious destination.
For more honeymoon ideas, head back to Your Day.
