Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa

Tucked into the hillside above the glittering Gulf of Mirabello, Blue Palace in Plaka, Crete is a stylish and serene escape for families. This five-star resort blends laid-back luxury with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making it ideal for parents and children alike. Suites and villas are beautifully spacious, many with private pools and interconnecting options—perfect for larger families or those wanting a little more flexibility. Almost all rooms look out over the sea and Spinalonga Island, with easy access to the resort’s gently sloping lawns and pebble beach. The private beach, complete with wooden sun decks and cushioned loungers, offers families a peaceful place to unwind.

With five restaurants to choose from, families can enjoy a delicious variety of dishes without ever leaving the resort. There’s something for every palate—from Mediterranean fine dining to authentic Cretan cuisine. The much-loved Blue Door Taverna, set right on the water’s edge in a former fisherman’s house, is a highlight—serving up local flavours in a charming, relaxed setting. Half-board guests have plenty of flexibility, with the option to dine from a buffet or table d’hôte menu and to swap dinner for lunch if that suits the day’s plans better.

Whether you’re looking to unwind or stay active, Blue Palace has something for everyone. Families can enjoy three outdoor pools (two of which are ideal for children), a wide choice of water sports—including kayaking, windsurfing, pedalos and water-skiing—and plenty of land-based fun too, like table tennis and tennis courts. Scuba diving is also available for those keen to explore underwater. For golf-loving guests, the 18-hole Crete Golf Club is around a 40-minute drive away. And when it’s time for a slower pace, the award-winning Elounda Spa & Thalassotherapy offers soothing treatments using the healing power of the sea.