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Incredible Crete: Marine wonders at Daios Cove

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By LAURA TOOGOOD

Visiting Daios Cove is a little bit like stepping in to a Bond film. Guests are presented with stunning vistas of Crete’s coastline when arriving at the entrance to this luxury resort, which spans the full height of an intimate cove. Funiculars transport you up and down the steep hillside, providing striking views of the Aegean Sea, which positively sparkles beneath and boasts crystal clear water.

Catamarans gently glide in the distance and the occasional speedboat leaves a trail of froth in its wake. A vast selection of plush villas and rooms with private infinity swimming pools are perched on the edge of the rock face and the tiered layout of the property allows you to observe an impressive facility at every level.

While the views out to sea are particularly special and include several islands dotted on the horizon as focal points, a spectacular infinity salt-water pool is the centre of attention. It is enormous and provides breath-taking glimpses of the scenery for those swimming and those relaxing on sun loungers that face out towards the sea. The beach below is equally well-positioned and offers a distinct perspective at ground level, as well as easy access to the tempting water.

Crete is renowned for providing excellent snorkelling opportunities and Daios Cove proves no exception. Even as your toe first meets the water you will spot shoals of tiny fish flitting through the waves. With each step comes the chance of encountering larger varieties and, once out of your depth, you will find yourself surrounded by hundreds of fish. Venturing towards the rocky edge of the cove will reveal crustaceans and sea urchins hiding in every nook and cranny.

The private pier at Daios Cove provides guests with the opportunity to try several different water sports. You can hire a jet ski to venture out of the cove and admire the broader coastline, water ski, or spend an hour gliding along in a paddleboat. The cosy cove has a peaceful atmosphere – even at the busiest of times – and you can spend hours in the water or relaxing on the beach. The Beach Bar is ideal for lunch and the casual menu is expertly delivered by the chef, who is a master at creating a generous Club Sandwich or Chicken Caesar Salad. There is also lounger service for those who don’t want to miss out on a moment of sunbathing.

It is clear from the minute that you reach this destination that a huge investment has been made to ensure that it offers a luxurious and unique experience, from start to finish. The construction of this site will impress even those will limited knowledge of building logistics. The materials that have been used to create the property blend in to the natural environment and the layout extends widely across the cove to provide six levels of premium design, which makes the most of the geographical setting.

The hotel has the capacity to welcome many guests; however, privacy can be guaranteed throughout your stay by booking one of the suites or villas. Many of the these come with substantial terraced areas that include al-fresco dining space and a private pool. The Premium Sea View Suites have stylish Maxalto Italian furnishings. There is an open-plan living area, two bathrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows and it works well for families of couples.

The spa at Daios Cove is the ultimate place to unwind and home to two indoor pools – one of these includes a hydro massage area. There is also a large gym, which is packed with state-of-the-art fitness equipment. The beauty treatments use products that have been created by the global skin and body care specialist, Anne Semonin.

Meanwhile, those looking for an active break can make the most of the tennis courts and there are also walking tours for the more adventurous souls. Crete is popular for hiking and you can observe the countryside by trekking through dramatic gorges and climbing towering mountains.

The island has four major towns: Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos. There are old towns to explore and plenty of pretty harbours to admire, as well as a number of famous archaeological sites. There is no shortage of culture delights to explore for those wanting to spend some time away from the luxurious base of Daios Cove.

Back at the resort, the modern architecture certainly turns heads from the outside and the interior décor also impresses. Attention to detail and exquisite aesthetics play an integral part in the Daios Cove philosophy and contemporary art is on display throughout the property. Golf buggies are used to transport guests through a warren of tunnels and help transcend the expansive property with ease.

Daios Cove offers six different restaurants and bars, with an International buffet usually the main choice for those who book on a half-board rate. You can also dine al la carte and there is a traditional Greek Taverna, which provides regionally inspired cuisine. The room service menu is extremely good. Aside from offering casual dishes such as pizza and pasta, there are main course options like moussaka available. The dinner is delivered to your door and laid out to mirror a restaurant setting. This is ideal for those who wish to dine at dusk and watch the stars appear above the cove, while sharing a bottle of wine in the comfort of a private veranda.

Whether you are planning a romantic honeymoon or family holiday, this versatile property caters for all. Children are welcome and adult dining areas offer some seclusion for those spending time away as a couple. The weather is fabulous for much of the season. However, it can reach the 40s in late summer, which makes the sea even more appealing for a refreshing dip. 

Daios Cove will prove irresistible to water babies. Despite the significant amount of money that has been spent developing this premium property and its many outstanding facilities, its best asset is the location and the incredible marine environment that surrounds this top-class resort. A stunning, tranquil shoreline beckons this summer and I urge you to make the most of this special, Southern European setting.

Watch our report from Daios Cove on Sloaney TV

Find out more about Daios Cove by visiting www.daioscove.com. You can book by calling + 30 28410 62600 or emailing + 30 28410 62622