We love —
- Anchoring off the uninhabited Dia Island, enjoying a peaceful swim in crystal-clear, tranquil waters.
- Cruising through the sparkling waters of Mirabello Bay, discovering hidden coves and dramatic Cretan coastline.
- Floating in your private pool at Paralos Venus Suites 5*, soaking up uninterrupted sea views and warm Mediterranean sunshine.
Customer reviews —
My favourite things? The minimalist décor, the incredibly friendly staff, a wine bar offering tastings of local wines, but also – and above all – a rooftop where you can sip a delicious cocktail whilst admiring the sea view, and yoga classes to help you relax completely – a real gem.
Sunset trip to the island of Dia —
Enjoy an unforgettable day on the Cretan sea with a small group on a sailing boat. Sail to the island of Dia, savour a traditional Cretan dinner and admire the sunset as it glistens on the sea.
Your first stop will be at a sheltered cove on the island, which forms part of the Natura 2000 project. It’s a great opportunity to go for a swim and do some snorkelling. After your swim, enjoy a delicious Mediterranean dinner of chicken souvlaki, Cretan tomato flatbreads, salad and fruit, all prepared for you on board.
Marvel at the sunset whilst sipping a refreshing glass of wine* or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters for one last swim before setting sail back to Heraklion.
*Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health; please drink responsibly.
Practical information:
Type of excursion: Sailing trip
Availability: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays
Guided: No
Accessible to people with reduced mobility: No
Accessible to pregnant women: Yes
Minimum age: 1 year. Minors are the responsibility of the accompanying adults.
Group size: 8–10 people per boat
Areas: Agia Pelagia, Amoudara, Kokkini Hani, Gouves, Analipsi, Anissaras, Hersonissos, Stalida, Malia
Duration: 4.5 hours (depending on the hotel’s location for transfers)
Departure time: 4.30 pm – 9.00 pm
Meeting point: Outside your hotel
Transfers: included from your hotel
The price includes:
- Transfer from the hotel
- Sailing trip with a skipper
- Dinner (chicken souvlaki, Cretan tomato rusks, salad and fruit)
- Non-alcoholic drinks and wine
The price does not include:
- Meals and drinks not mentioned under ‘The price includes’
- Any tips and personal expenses
- Anything not listed under ‘The price includes’
What to bring: Swimming suit, towel, sun cream and camera
Cancellation policy: Cancellation is free of charge up to 48 hours before the day of the excursion. Between 12 and 48 hours beforehand, a 50% cancellation fee applies. After this deadline (less than 12 hours beforehand or in the event of a no-show), no refund will be given, except in the case of a serious reason supported by an official document (e.g. a medical certificate).
Cruise in the Mirabello Bay (for stays of 6 nights or more) —
Enjoy a day cruise on Mirabello Bay, taking in breathtaking scenery and time set aside for a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, all accompanied by music from the on-board DJ. The day begins with a leisurely cruise along Mirabello Bay to Kolokytha Beach (around 1 hour). There, the boat will drop anchor and you can swim in the crystal-clear waters (around 1 hour 15 minutes).
You’ll then continue on to a second, secluded beach in Skistra Bay – the perfect spot for snorkelling, relaxing and enjoying a cocktail (around 1 hour 15 minutes). At around 3.45 pm, you’ll be back at the port of Agios Nikolaos, where the coach will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.
Practical information:
Type of tour: boat trip
Guided: no
Languages: English, French, German
Availability: May to October, Thursdays and Saturdays
Accessible to people with reduced mobility: no
Accessible to pregnant women: no
Recommended/minimum age: from 2 years old. Minors are the responsibility of the accompanying adults.
Duration: 7 hours
Timetable: departure at 10am – return at 5pm
Minimum number of people: 1
Maximum number of people: no limit
Transfers included: yes
Pick-up and drop-off point: at your hotel or a nearby meeting point
The price includes:
- Return transfers
- Ferry tickets
- Cocktail
The price does not include:
- Meals and drinks not mentioned under ‘The price includes’ ’
- Any tips
- Personal expenses
- Anything not listed under ‘The price includes’
What to bring:
- Swimming suit, towel, hat, sunglasses
- Sun cream
- Camera
Important notes:
- The total duration of your activity and the departure/return times will depend on the location of your hotel.
- To take part in this activity, you must provide the full names of all participants, their dates of birth, nationalities, ages and genders, as well as their passport or ID card numbers, to the port authorities before the excursion.
- Water sports activities require all participants to be able to swim proficiently. They must be comfortable in the water and able to cope with occasional currents.
- Snorkelling equipment and various inflatable water toys are available on board.
- Fresh fruit is served, and those feeling peckish can order food on board.
Cancellation policy: Cancellation is free of charge up to 48 hours before the day of the excursion. Between 12 and 48 hours beforehand, a 50% cancellation fee applies. After this deadline (less than 12 hours beforehand or in the event of a no-show), no refund will be given, except in the case of a serious reason supported by an official document (e.g. a medical certificate).
Olive Tree Festival with live music and dinner (for stays of 7 nights or more) —
Spend a special evening with the Lyraki family, who invite you into the beautiful garden of their olive oil production facility. An evening not to be missed.
You’ll have the chance to see how olive oil is made, a beekeeper will show you how the famous Cretan honey is still produced today, how olive oil soap is made and, of course, you’ll get to taste several wonderful Cretan wines. The evening will round off with a traditional meal prepared right before your eyes – one you’re sure to remember. An evening during which you’ll also enjoy a traditional dance performance by Greek dancers.
Detailed programme:
- Activity begins at around 7.45 pm
- Introduction, demonstration of soap-making and the olive oil extraction process using various machines.
- 8.30 pm: Tasting session in the shop, followed by a buffet dinner cooked in a traditional oven
Examples of dishes on offer: Greek salads, fava, tapenades, olives, stuffed aubergines, dakos (bread with tomatoes and cheese), melt-in-the-mouth potatoes, meat dishes
- 9.00 pm: Dance performance, plate-throwing and Greek music. You may be invited to join in and dance!
- Evening ends around 11.00 pm
Practical information:
Type of tour: festive event
Guided: yes
Languages: French, English, German and Dutch
Availability: Thursdays, from May to October
Accessible to people with reduced mobility: yes
Accessible to pregnant women: yes
Minimum age: 1 year. Minors are the responsibility of the accompanying adults.
Activity times: 7.45 pm – 11 pm on site (+ transfers from your hotel)
The exact duration and times will be provided in the voucher sent by our partner.
Number of people on site: approximately 200 to 300
Transfers: yes, shared
Pick-up and drop-off point: from your hotel or nearby
The price includes:
- shared transfers
- a buffet dinner with a selection of traditional Greek dishes and drinks
- a tour of the olive grove in English
- wine tasting
The price does not include:
- Meals and drinks not mentioned under ‘The price includes’
- The services of an assistant on board the coach
- Any tips and personal expenses
- Anything not listed under ‘The price includes’
What to bring: comfortable shoes and a light jacket
Cancellation policy: Cancellation is free of charge up to 48 hours before the day of the excursion. Between 12 and 48 hours beforehand, a cancellation fee of 50% applies. After this deadline (less than 12 hours beforehand or in the event of a no-show), no refund will be given, except in the case of a serious reason supported by an official document (e.g. a medical certificate).
Paralos Venus Suites 5* —
Set in the quiet village of Analipsi, just moments from the sea, Paralos Venus Suites 5* is an adults-only retreat where modern design flows effortlessly into the timeless spirit of Crete. Contemporary architecture and soft, natural tones blend with traditional elements, creating a refined yet unpretentious mood. Light and space define the atmosphere, while an eco-conscious philosophy resonates throughout, offering a sense of harmony with the island itself.
From the moment you arrive, you are welcomed into a place where calm energy and inspiration prevail. The ambience is warm and genuine, with each suite radiating elegance and simplicity. This is a setting crafted for pure relaxation and for a deeper connection with the essence of Crete, where authenticity and sophistication meet in perfect balance.
Your room —
Just for you:
- Complimentary upgrade from a Deluxe Room to a Junior Suite
- Welcome gift in your room on arrival, per stay
Choose between a stay in an Upgraded Junior Suite, a Junior Sea View Suite or a Junior Suite with private pool.
Upgraded Junior Suite (30 m²)
Blending comfort with refined style, the Junior Suite offers a thoughtfully designed space where every detail feels harmonious. Contemporary interiors flow into a private outdoor area, creating an inviting retreat.
Junior Sea View Suite (30 m²)
The Junior Sea View Suite offers refined comfort with a serene bedroom, elegant living area and sweeping views of the Mediterranean. Soft textures and thoughtful details make it the perfect place to unwind.
Junior Suite with private pool (35 m²)
There's nothing quite like relaxing in your own luxury suite and chilling out beside the private pool. This Junior Suite has it all with high end interiors and a peaceful terrace for the ultimate stay.
Your dining choices
Just for you:
- 30% discount on wine tasting, per room and per stay
This is a half board stay. Your breakfast and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (excludes drinks).
From breakfast to dinner, the restaurants celebrate fresh, locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the essence of Cretan gastronomy. Discover the authentic flavours of the Cretan Bio Restaurant or indulge in refined Greek and Mediterranean dishes at Diktamos. Hand-picked wines from the cellar elevate every meal, with weekly tastings arranged in collaboration with local wineries.
Dinner at the à la carte Cretan Bio Restaurant (excluding drinks - for stays of 5 nights or more)
For stays of five nights or more, enjoy one à la carte dinner at the Cretan Bio Restaurant per person, per stay (excluding drinks; advance reservation required).
Your time
Just for you:
- 1 x sunset sailing trip to the island of Dia
Bask in the Mediterranean sun as you relax on an elegant lounger beside one of the resort’s calm pools, each offering a gentle escape. For quieter moments, retreat to the shaded terrace, where soft light filters through, or stroll to the nearby beach and slip into the turquoise sea. A daily fitness programme on the rooftop gym brings energy and focus, while hydrotherapy jets, the steam room, and soothing massages invite you to unwind and recharge.
Your included excursions —
Sunset cruise to Dia Island
Enjoy an unforgettable day on the Cretan sea with a small group on a sailing boat. Sail to the island of Dia, enjoy a traditional Cretan dinner and watch the sunset glistening on the sea.
Cruise on Mirabello Bay
Enjoy a day cruise on Mirabello Bay, taking in the breathtaking scenery and taking time out to dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, all set to music provided by the on-board DJ.
Olive Tree Festival with live music and dinner (for stays of 7 nights or more)
Spend a special evening with the Lyraki family, who invite you to the beautiful garden at their olive oil production facility. An evening not to be missed
Your optional excursions —
Acqua Plus Waterpark All Inclusive
Spend a special day for visitors of all ages at one of Crete's largest water parks! The water park offers over 50 different slides, games and facilities such as Aqua Slalom, Black Holes and Crazy River. Take a refreshing dip in the main pool, discover the 80-metre (262-foot) hydrotube, or simply relax on the lazy river or in the hydromassage pool.
Land Rover safari to discover eastern Crete via the Minoan road
Discover the central region of the island with its fascinating mythology, flora and fauna, while learning lots of fun and interesting facts about local life in Crete.
Land Rover safari to discover eastern Crete via the Nida Road
Combine the highest mountains of the island with traditional villages, plateaus, rolling vineyards, mythology and the local life in Crete with a full day Land Rover Safari.
Cruise on Mirabello Bay
Enjoy a day cruise on Mirabello Bay, with breathtaking scenery and time to dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, all set to music provided by the on-board DJ.
Day trip to Santorini by ferry
Take advantage of your holiday in Crete to take a day trip to the neighbouring island of Santorini. Visit Greece's most famous island and enjoy a guided tour with free time in the famous villages of Oia and Fira. You will travel by speed ferry to maximise your time on Santorini.
Day trip to Dia Island
Enjoy an unforgettable day on the sea off Crete with a small group aboard a sailing boat heading for Dia Island.
Your first stop will be in a sheltered bay on the island that is part of the Natura 2000 project. An excellent opportunity for swimming and snorkelling. Next, a delicious Mediterranean lunch will be prepared on board. After a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear water, you will set sail again to return to Heraklion.
Sunset cruise to the island of Dia
Enjoy an unforgettable day on the Cretan sea with a small group on a sailing yacht. Travel to the island of Dia, tuck into a traditional Cretan dinner, and marvel at the sunset shimmering across the sea.
Olive festival with live music and dinner
Spend a special evening with the Lyraki family, who invite you to the beautiful garden of their olive oil production facility. An evening not to be missed.
Your included services —
Assistance at destination - Crete
Take advantage of an included assistance service at your destination, provided by our local partners trained to Voyage Privé standards. A dedicated contact person, available 24 hours a day (by telephone or WhatsApp), will accompany you throughout your stay, offering advice, reservations and help in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Leave with peace of mind.
Your journey to Crete —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Hersonissos —
Hersonissos is a sun-kissed coastal town where turquoise waters meet charming streets lined with bougainvillaea and traditional tavernas. Feel the warm Mediterranean breeze on the waterfront, hear the gentle lapping of the sea, and watch sunlight shimmer across the harbour. From lively marinas to quiet village lanes, every corner invites exploration, relaxation, and a taste of authentic Cretan life.
Must-sees:
- Old Harbour: Stroll along the waterfront, where fishing boats sway and cafés spill onto the promenade.
- Lychnostatis Open-Air Museum: Explore traditional Cretan village life, windmills, and artisan workshops in sunlit courtyards.
- Star Beach: Lounge on golden sands or dive into crystal-clear waters under the warm Cretan sun.
- Cretan Villages: Visit nearby villages to experience local crafts, markets, and centuries-old traditions.
Culinary culture:
Hersonissos delights with fresh seafood, sun-ripened produce, and aromatic herbs. Enjoy grilled fish, moussaka, or creamy cheeses in seaside tavernas, where local wine and the scent of the sea enhance every bite. Even casual meals become sensory experiences, blending tradition and contemporary flavours in a relaxed, sun-drenched setting.
Dive deeper:
Beyond the beaches, discover ancient ruins, Byzantine chapels, and hidden coves. Sailing, diving, and water sports bring the sparkling Mediterranean to life, while local festivals, artisan shops, and olive groves immerse visitors in the island’s living culture.
Good to know:
Hersonissos enjoys warm Mediterranean weather most of the year. The euro (€) is used locally, and while cards are widely accepted, cash is handy for small markets and tavernas. The town is easy to explore on foot, with taxis, buses, and rental options for venturing further along Crete’s sunlit coastline.
