Asterion Suites & Spa, Platanias, Greece

• Majesty and myth: Named after the mythological King Asterion, the island’s first king, the five-star Asterion Suites & Spa truly is the stuff of legends. Boasting views of the Aegean and Saint Theodore’s Island, this spectacular adults-only hotel occupies a privileged position along the vast sandy beach of Pyrgos Platanias, and pays homage to its namesake with an ethos centred on marrying timeless tradition with the finest modern luxury. While away the hours by the glittering outdoor pool or under a parasol on the beach before returning to your beautiful guest room, where earth tones and sleek contemporary décor will lull you into further relaxation.

• Cretan concoctions: Crete’s centuries-old culinary heritage gets a contemporary shake-up at the hotel’s restaurants, where casual-chic dining is infused with warm Greek hospitality and a farm-to-table philosophy. Head to the main buffet restaurant Matter for a varied breakfast offering where rich yoghurts, honey and olive oil are among the world-famous local products on offer, and return at lunch and dinner for tantalising regional and international cuisine. The uber-popular 35° à la carte restaurant is a celebration of all things Cretan, where mouthwatering traditional dishes and innovative modern cuisine are made with the finest and freshest ingredients. And for smoothies, coffees and stylish aperitifs, look no further than the elegant lobby and pool bars.

• Star-aligning spa moments: A trip to the hotel’s sumptuous Orion Spa will leave you rejuvenated and restored, with a range of soothing massages, body and facial treatments blending modern therapies and premium cosmetics with traditional techniques and sensuous natural ingredients. There’s also a sauna, steam bath and relaxation room to forget the outside world in, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, and a luxurious seafront gazebo for indulgent treatments right on the beach.

Entry requirements

The passport, visa and health requirements at the time of booking can be viewed on the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website for UK citizens, and on the Department of Foreign Affairs website for IE citizens. It is your responsibility to ensure that you and all members of your party are in possession of all necessary travel and health documents, and in compliance with any other immigration/entry requirements before you travel, including whether your passport must be machine readable or which visas/waivers may be required for entry, such as ESTA for USA travel and/or ETIAS for EU travel. Please also be sure to check the validity of your passport and allow up to 10 weeks for passport renewals.