Elounda Garden Suites

Although its backdoor-style entrance via a long concrete walkway seems a bit daunting, once inside, Elounda Garden Suites is a haven of calm. Public areas may feel sparse at first, but they're well-sized for the 19-room hotel. A chic and modern design is found throughout this 2014-opened property, with lots of soothing gray and white tones, paired with natural wood and stone accents. The overall effect is serene and stylish, plus being situated away from the main road means there’s minimal traffic noise, and light music is piped from the poolside bar. The central pool area is the heart of the complex, and most guests can be spotted sunbathing here, or on their private patios. The relaxed atmosphere and lack of facilities draws mostly couples, though families wanting a kitchenette-equipped room also come here.

Unlike some competitors who are positioned right on Mirabello bay, Elounda Garden Suites is situated in a quieter part of town on a local road. However, it's a quick five-minute walk to Elounda Beach and three minutes to the main square. Ample restaurants and bars can be found in town, which is necessary since the hotel doesn't serve dinner. Those in the mood to explore farther destinations can visit the less touristy, pretty fishing village of Plaka, about an eight-minute drive away. Boats to visit the famous island of Spinalonga can be hired from Plaka's marina, and are cheaper than those from Elounda. Heraklion International Airport is about an hour's drive away.

Rooms at Elounda Garden Suites are pleasantly clean, stylish, and well maintained, with decor echoing the soothing neutrals of public spaces. All but one are arranged as suites, with separate bedrooms sporting comfortable queen-size beds, and living spaces with kitchenettes. Kitchenettes are basic, each with only one portable cooking ring, a mini-fridge, kettle, and coffeemaker, but microwaves and toasters can be provided for free on request. A big plus is that all rooms have two outdoor spaces with garden or pool views. Also standard are welcome gifts of local wine, fresh fruit, and bottled water, along with bathrobes and slippers, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, wardrobes with safes, and free Wi-Fi. Straightforward bathrooms have showers and quality toiletries. Family Suites are larger and can accommodate two extra people with two sofa beds, while Suites have just one sofa bed.

Facilities here are limited, as there are no spa, gym, or full restaurant. The highlight is the stylish and quiet pool, which is well-sized and surrounded by high-quality sunbeds under straw umbrellas. A poolside bar serves tasty daytime snacks and drinks, and guests rave about the breakfast buffet, which consists of fresh, local fare and hot dishes like omelets cooked-to-order. Dinner meals are not available. There’s no hosted recreation or evening entertainment, though that's part of the appeal for most guests. In-room massage treatments are available on request. The hotel has its own olive tree groves, which it uses to produce olive oil and olive oil-based products; guests receive a farewell gift with the aforementioned olive oil, lemon soap, and local tea. Wi-Fi is free.