Koutsounari, Crete RegionSecluded beachfront stay on Crete’s dazzling southern coast

• Cretan crown jewel: Immersed in lush Mediterranean gardens and flanked by the sea on one side and the dazzling Cretan landscape on the other, Coriva Beach Hotel & Bungalows is the ultimate secluded island retreat. Ideally located on one of the island’s award-winning beaches, the hotel is a happy marriage of timeless tradition and modern comfort, with a cobbled path tracing its way past olive trees, whitewashed buildings and beautiful stone arches, while inside sleek contemporary décor features soothing earth tones, clean lines and luxury touches for a taste of authentic Greek-island chic.

• Beachfront bliss: There’s plenty of room here to unwind in an inspired setting, with a beautiful lounger-strewn sundeck framing the glittering outdoor pool. Enviably positioned right along one of Crete’s most coveted beaches, you won’t have to look far for refreshing sea swims and long beach walks, while the stunning surrounds are the perfect backdrop for whiling away the hours with a book. And should you decide to get exploring, the marvels of Ierapetra and turquoise waters of Chrissi Island are a nearby must.

• Oceanfront eats: The Main Restaurant is your go-to for tantalising buffet eats at breakfast and beyond, with floor-to-ceiling sea views and a range of regional and international specialties on offer. Elsewhere, sample the world-famous Mediterranean diet with a Cretan twist at the multi-award-winning Pelagos Seaside Restaurant, serving mouthwatering local and Mediterranean dishes that celebrate fresh, raw, and locally-sourced ingredients. Step right onto the beach to dine as the waves lap against the shore, and savour each and every magical sunset with a glass from the meticulously-curated wine list.

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.