The Greek Islands have a fast growing reputation for sporting some of the swankiest spa resorts in the Med. A three hour flight with perennial warm climes, Crete - the largest of the isles - is a popular destination for Brits looking for a spot of luxurious autumnal r&r. Sure enough, as I step foot inside Daios Cove the wow factor hits. Nestled in a tranquil private sandy bay, a short ride from the bustling town of Agios Nikolaos, a wall of floor to ceiling windows creates a stunning elevated panoramic of the crystal clear turquoise waters and rugged cliffs that don the bay. Aromatic floral displays and piped hypnotic tunes create a cool and calming ambience. Glass funiculars glide between the stylish restaurants, suites and villas that span the cliff side and down to the beach, where grown ups sip cocktails while kids frolic in the sand. If you're on the hunt for a family friendly chic retreat, Daios Cove is a winner.
The Room
Deluxe Sea View Pool Room. An open plan contemporary suite with hues of crisp whites, soft creams and dove greys. A king size bedroom, lounge and dining area lead to a balcony with a private saltwater infinity pool. There's marble bathroom with a walk in monsoon shower and a generous helping of products from the delicious luxury Greek brand Apvita. Many of the rooms and villas are family friendly and offer a safety fence around the pools. All rooms offer free wifi, mini bars and iPod dock with a complimentary bucket and spade in the family rooms.
The Spa
Set in the cliffs edge with infinite Meditarannean views to idle, the 2,500 square metre Daios Cove Spa is a western style sanctuary based on Chakra philosophies. The state of the art spa, one of the finest in Greece, offers bespoke 'top to toe' treatments from luxury French brand Anne Semonin. To encourage complete wellbeing, each of the treatments from the spa menu are individually tailored to guests' needs. Spa facilities include a hydro and thermal area, an indoor saltwater pool, relaxation hubs and seven treatment rooms - including a wonderful couple's suite complete with private steam and jet pool. There's a Thai treatment room, Hammam, Finnish sauna, hair salon and nail bar.
The Treatment
Bespoke Aroma Energiser: After a general health and wellbeing consultation, therapist Effa combines hazelnut, mandarin and oregano for a deep and uplifting inhalation. A combination massage of deep tissue and yogic stretching follows, using a fusion of the aromatic oils and vitamin E to enrich the skin. The treatment finishes with an awakening Indian head massage. 90 minutes €130.
Other Treatments include: Aroma Salt Fusion, Volcanic Thermal Stone Massage and Vital Detox.
Spa Products: Anne Semonin
Activities
Various water sports, including Scuba diving and sailing, yoga & pilates, and a range of activities at the kid's club. There's also a jogging route around the hotel grounds and state of the art gym. (PT available)
To Eat
Six bars and restaurants including Pangea for international buffets, Ocean for Italian fine dining and Taverna for beach side seafood and Greek a la carte (try the exquisite Lobster menu).
Don't Miss
Charter a catamaran for a half-day trip to Spinalonga (Where Victoria Hislops' The Island was filmed) anchor at a private cove for a swim followed by an on-board Champagne lunch. Prices from €500.
Words: Lisa Stokes
The Deal
Sovereign Luxury Travel (0843 770 4526, www.sovereign.com) is offering a week at the five star Daios Cove Luxury Resort and Villas with prices from £1,119 per person. The price includes a saving of £989 per couple, a complimentary upgrade to half board, €100 resort credit, a 25% accommodation discount, return flights from London Gatwick with Easyjet, UK airport lounge access, private return resort transfers and seven nights in a Deluxe Sea View Room. Based on departures 24 September 2014.