Grecotel Caramel Boutique Hotel

When you have discovered the Grecotel Caramel Boutique Hotel on the stunning island of Crete, you have truly found paradise. Less than an hour’s transfer from either Chania or Heraklion Airport, you will feel like you have stumbled across your very own private haven. From the moment you drive up to the grand entrance, you already feel spoilt, and the best is yet to come. Its exterior immediately fills you with warmth and from the moment you walk inside- you will be both captivated and amazed at the beauty before you. The understated elegance of the Caramel allows for a laid-back ambience throughout the resort. The style of the hotel is retro glamour, which oozes through the hotel with ease. The Caramel has a very personal feel to it, like it is there just for you, with everything you desire- it really is unique and exceptionally beautiful. Pops of bright colour bring the style together with luxury, from the entrance hall to the bar and even the library, it has a wonderful calmness about it.

Set on a prime beachfront estate in the heart of the Cretan Riviera, just minutes from the old-world charm of Rethymno’s Venetian harbour, the Caramel is in a prime spot for a calm and quiet holiday, despite being just minutes’ walk from the town, you would never know as you are immersed into serenity. The hotel saltwater swimming pool is a huge 700m squared in size, you cannot resist the temptation of lying beside it on your own lily-pad designer lounger which is immersed in the water. You will also find a hydro-pool here too for that additional relax. With the Confetti Pool Lounge and Panther Lobby Bar, you don’t need to move a muscle from your cabana or terrace with both food and drinks services brought to you, this also applies to the beach- you don’t have to lift a finger, or move one for that matter!

With an incredible twenty-two room types over sixty-nine rooms, you are going to find it tough to choose between anything from a junior suite with sea view, a two-bedroom villa to share with family and friends or a luxury bungalow with private jacuzzi. Whichever room type you choose, you will still be offered the same welcome, full of Greek warmth and tradition- nothing is too much trouble while you are guests at this stunning hotel. In each room you will find unique special touches such as a beach bag, pool towels, flip flops, complimentary toiletries, and a Nespresso machine that is stocked up for you- everything has been thought of, so you don’t have to.

Children are not forgotten about at the Caramel either, in fact, they are treated like little celebrities! With the Grecoland children’s club, full of wonder and fun, you can expect an array of variation when it comes to entertainment including days of Greek dancing, being a farmer for the day at the Agrecotel Farm, team games and creative crafts, to name but a few. As a mum of two daughters aged 4 and 10, this variation of activity is perfect for a family holiday- there really is something for everyone, even the littlest ones. What makes this even better is that children up to the age of 12 stay for free in their parent’s room and they also eat for free too! Bonus!

The various dining options at the Caramel mean that you will always be catered for. The food at the Caramel is simply exquisite. Each dish is fresh and vibrant with such attention to detail with presentation. The most popular board option is the exclusive Dine Club which is an exciting half board concept with many different options and extra advantages, including credit in selected restaurants in Grecotel Resorts around Crete, two free à la carte dinners per week and free dining for kids. You may decide to stay at the hotel and enjoy your meals at the Caramel Restaurant, or at the Gourmet A La Carte Restaurant, or you may choose from one of 16 other restaurants offered to you at other Grecotel resorts, including the Agreco Farm Taverna where a lot of the fruit and vegetables are grown allowing seasonal dishes to be fresher than ever. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options are available across not just the Caramel, but all the Grecotel resorts. The top quality food and range of dishes will not disappoint. Private dining experiences are also available with your choice of location, a specially designed bespoke menu, and your own waiter for the evening. You may decide to have your meal on the beach where a firework display can be organised, now that is special! And if you out late enough, you may even spot a sea turtle appear on the beach too.

Weddings here can be organised for up to 50 guests, and with your own dedicated planner, you can sit back and enjoy the anticipation of a fabulous day with your loved ones whether you choose the beach or the beautiful lawn to say your vows, they are both as stunning as each other If it is an active holiday you want, then look no further. You will not find anything intrusive at the Caramel, but you will find peaceful yoga, Pilates and gymnastics sessions, and well as being able to use the gym at the hotel which is adorned with all modern equipment for those of you that like to workout on holiday. The on-site spa also offers plenty of relaxation with a full list of treatments and pamper sessions on offer at an additional charge. And if it is water sports you are after, then just head to the beach where this will be arranged for you. So, if you fancy professional motorized water sports, sailing, waterskiing, pedal boats, canoes, banana and rings or a wakeboard, consider it done! There is also a local PADI underwater dive school nearby if you would like to be more adventurous!

Despite my visit to the Caramel Boutique Hotel being short, I can assure you that it has made a lasting impression on me. The beauty of the hotel and the smatterings of elegant touches that you see, allows this resort to immerse you in Greek charm. By holidaying here, you are promised a holiday full of serenity, tranquillity and as much Raki as you desire!