Grecotel’s Luxme White is elevating the all-inclusive holiday with stunning Cretan experiences.
Having everything you desire within an arm’s reach sounds too good to be true. While
many resorts make such grand claims, the reality can be a long way from the marketing team’s promises. But love it or hate it, the all-inclusive concept is here to stay – a memorable experience hinges on finding the right one.
Grecotel, a family-run collection of hotels and resorts across Greece, has perfected the formula. LUXME epitomises the group’s luxury-made- easy concept, which operates on an ultra all-inclusive basis. This package offers gold-class amenities and world-class service in a breathtaking setting. From the minute you ascend the stairs at LUXME White, you’re greeted with an enchanting view of sea, sky and palm trees. Setting the tone for relaxation and luxury, it’s instantly clear that this all-inclusive is a cut above the rest.
Dreamlike Design
LUXME White is a take-your-breath- away property. The wow factor is high. Embodying the essence of its name, everything is swathed in crisp, clean shades of chalk. There are 267 rooms, but the spacious resort means it never feels cramped. Designs range from seafront and garden view rooms to ultra-premium villas with private pools.
The swim-up bungalows are popular for good reason. From the privacy of their room, guests can step onto their own deck and into a shared swimming pool. The whole experience is one of those moments where you wonder if life can get any better.
The stunning design continues at Hippie Spa, a relaxing oasis with hanging chairs suspended over
an indoor pond. Treatments draw inspiration from ancient Greece and the resort’s natural surroundings, such as marine-inspired facials and an olive oil and herb massage. Elsewhere, guests can be found sprawling on canopy beds overhanging the Cretan sea or enjoying a cocktail on the sun- soaked terrace.
Beyond The Buffet
An important part of an all-inclusive experience is the food and beverages, with guests expecting a decent return on investment. Luckily, dining is integral to the LUXME experience, with seven restaurants to choose from, along with sea-view wine tasting experiences and an onsite patisserie.
Asia White is the special occasion setting where fine dining tasting menus are accompanied by the Aegean Sea breeze.
For a more relaxed atmosphere, Tavernaki spotlights authentic Greek flavours with a focus on succulent meats, fresh salads and grilled breads. Meanwhile, Lobsteria, as the name implies, champions seafood, especially lobster. Dine on zesty tartare, creamy lobster pasta and even a Heston Blumenthal-esque dessert depicting an undersea scene, complete with edible coral and lobster silhouettes carved from jelly.
For those seeking an offsite culinary adventure, Agreco Farm is a great option. Tucked among olive trees in the hills above Rethymno, the four-hectare estate showcases centuries-old farming methods, including a traditional olive press and flour water mill. Traditional Cretan dishes are created with local produce, which really shines through in the flavours.
Old Meets New
Despite the hotel’s contemporary aesthetic, the island is steeped in historical significance and guests can enjoy cultural experiences outside the hotel. For history buffs, the Arkadi Monastery is a must-see. Its original Baroque church is still standing and the museum displays fascinating post-Byzantine relics.
The Cave of Melidoni is equally worthy of a visit, housing a breathtaking array of stalactites and stalagmites within its cathedral- like setting. And, art aficionados should stop by the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna for a glimpse of artefacts unearthed during the past three decades.
For a change of scenery, Grecotel guests can visit the group’s sister resorts on Crete. Grecotel White’s next door neighbour is the charming, boutique resort Caramel. Oozing elegance, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a few sundowners at a relaxed pace.
Set against a backdrop of ancient mythology, Grecotel is writing its own chapter on Cretan hospitality. The staff, many of whom have been with the company for several decades, have a palpable passion for the island. It’s a reminder that paradise is as much a state-of-mind as it is a place.
Transport Yourself To Paradise
The hotel is around an hour’s drive from Heraklion International Airport, so it’s smart to to book a car or transfer prior to arrival. Crete is the largest of the Greek islands, so hiring a car is the best option if you’re keen to explore beyond the resort.
Grecotel Luxme White
Address: Πηγιανός Κάμπος 741 50, Greece
Bookings: https://www.grecotel.com/luxme-whitepalace/
