We love —
- Waking up to a private Cretan bay that feels a world away, with rooms blending island tradition and contemporary ease.
- Moving between the Asterias gourmet table and Athens-crafted cocktails inspired by Cretan herbs, where every sitting feels like an occasion.
- Surrendering to the spa, where Greek botanical expertise meets modern skin science for treatments that feel genuinely considered.
Customer reviews —
A first glimpse of your holiday —
Royal Blue Resort 5* —
The tranquil and luxurious Royal Blue Resort 5* is perched upon a private bay and offers endless views of Crete's beautiful blue waters. The decor is contemporary and sophisticated, with clean lines and simple architecture letting the amazing views take centre stage.
The numerous swimming pools, natural stone, waterfalls and colourful gardens create the perfect setting for your well-being and relaxation. Varied bars and restaurants, a state-of-the-art spa, tennis courts and a private beach will leave you spoilt for choice when it comes to 'me time'.
Your room —
Choose between a stay in the accommodation listed below.
Superior Garden View Room (30 m²)
Wake up to spectacular views of the luscious gardens in this beautiful Superior Garden View Room. Combining comfort with luxury and contemporary design with elegance, your room is equipped with king or twin-size beds, ensuring optimum relaxation during your holidays in the hotel. With soothing tones and light decor, your room boasts all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay.
Superior Garden View Room with sharing pool (30 m²)
Gaze over the luscious garden views from your private terrace, and take a dip in the shared pool that is just on your doorstep. In these impressive rooms, spend cosy evenings in twin or king-size beds, which offer luxurious comforts and high-quality amenities, creating a serene ambience for your stay.
Superior Sea View Room (30 m²)
In addition to the fantastic amenities listed above, this Superior Sea View Room offers sparkling views of the hotel's crystal-clear sea surroundings.
Luxury Sea View Suite with private pool (55 m²)
The Luxury Suite boasts direct access to the sea but also gives you the option to relax in your own private pool. With 55 square meters of stylish chic design, this is the perfect sun-drenched retreat for up to four people. Comfort and luxury at its best.
Superior Waterfront Suite with sea view (55 m²)
Spend your holiday in bliss when staying in the luxuriously appointed Superior Waterfront Suite with sea view which features a light and airy interior, sumptuous amenities and gorgeous sea views.
Your dining choices
Just for you:
- 1 x bottle of Greek wine and local delicacies upon arrival
This is a half board stay. Your breakfast and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (excludes drinks).
With a rich offering of cuisines from around the world and a wide choice of settings, The Royal Blue Resort has menus to please everyone. Before or after dinner, there are a host of unique bars for every mood. Sip on Cretan liquor at the lobby bar, taste fine wines from the cellar or simply enjoy panoramic views at Sunset Bar.
Your time
Just for you:
- 1 x 45-minute thalassotherapy session per adult per stay
- 10% off spa treatments and products
Whether you are looking for a romantic retreat or a family getaway in the sun, escape to The Royal Blue for moments of rest and relaxation. Boasting 38 pools (central, shared and private), a private beach, tennis courts and a kids' club, there is something for all.
The Pure Senses Spa is an expansive, state-of-the-art facility, offering a variety of treatments to relax, rejuvenate and invigorate. Make sure you don't miss out on its sensational facilities, including a 700 m2 fitness centre with a sauna and hammam, an indoor heated pool with seawater, private treatment rooms for individuals or couples, a relaxation lounge and a hair and nail studio.
Your optional excursions & extras —
Land Rover safari to the shepherds' hut
Discover panoramic views, visit traditional Cretan villages and learn all about the lifestyle of a Cretan shepherd by exploring an original shepherd's hut called a ‘Mitato’. In a small group of 6 to 8 people per vehicle, learn about the island's history and traditions, meet the locals, discover the flora and fauna of Crete, and taste delicious cheeses and Cretan cuisine.
Day trip to Santorini by ferry (from Western Crete)
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.
4x4 safari in Crete: landscapes, flavours and shepherd traditions
Embark on a semi-private 4x4 safari in the heart of authentic Crete, combining spectacular landscapes, encounters with shepherds, wine, olive oil and cheese tastings, and a traditional Cretan lunch included.
Land Rover safari in western Crete
A sunset safari with the best panoramic views of the city of Rethymnon, the Potamon Dam, traditional Cretan villages and incredible mountain landscapes. Treat yourself to a romantic experience off the beaten track with the best panoramic views and quality service on a shared tour in a small group of up to 8 people per vehicle.
Loutro: The Forgotten Village from West Crete (Rethymnon area)
Explore the treasure of the South and visit the dazzling beach of Glyka Nera, followed by exploring the forgotten village of Loutro, only reachable by boat.
Cruise to Balos Lagoon - from Rethymnon & Georgioupolis
Embark on an idyllic cruise to the Balos lagoon, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and enjoy its crystal-clear waters, spectacular scenery and unforgettable relaxation.
Idyllic cruise to the island of Souda
Embark on an unforgettable cruise to the island of Souda, where crystal-clear waters, spectacular cliffs and traditional Greek flavours promise a day of relaxation and discovery.
4×4 safari south of Rethymno with a stop for swimming
Set off on a 4x4 safari along the southern coast of Rethymno, admiring the panoramic views of Kourtaliotiko Gorge and Agios Paisios. Pass through traditional villages and enjoy a swim and a Cretan snack at Mikri Triopetra.
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.
An unforgettable adventure in Preveli – from Bali & Georgioupolis
Set off on an unforgettable adventure combining a boat trip, a visit to the idyllic beach of Preveli, an exploration of unspoilt landscapes and an immersion in Cretan culture, complete with a tasting of local produce and a visit to a traditional village.
Sailing cruise from the South Coast - Agia Galini
Embark on an extraordinary excursion, where sailing, breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine, and a sense of serenity make for an exceptional experience.
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 Greece —
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.
Rethymno —
Rethymno is a captivating coastal town on the island of Crete, where Venetian elegance meets Ottoman heritage along golden shores. Narrow cobbled streets, pastel façades, and lively harbourfronts create an atmosphere rich in history and Mediterranean warmth, inviting slow discovery between ancient landmarks and sunlit beaches.
Must-sees
- Rethymno Old Town: Wander labyrinthine lanes filled with Venetian houses, hidden courtyards, and charming artisan shops.
- Fortezza of Rethymno: Explore this impressive hilltop fortress offering sweeping views across the town and sea.
- Rethymno Venetian Harbour: Stroll along the picturesque waterfront lined with cafés, fishing boats, and historic architecture.
- Rimondi Fountain: Admire this elegant Renaissance fountain set within the heart of the old town.
- Rethymno Beach: Relax along an expansive stretch of golden sand, perfect for sun-filled days beside the Mediterranean.
Culinary culture
Rethymno’s cuisine celebrates authentic Cretan flavours, with fresh seafood, grilled meats, olive oil, herbs, and seasonal produce taking centre stage. Traditional tavernas and modern restaurants offer dishes paired with local wines and raki, enjoyed in lively squares or along the harbour.
Dive deeper
Explore nearby mountain villages, hike scenic gorges, or visit local wineries and olive mills to discover the island’s traditions. Evenings invite sunset views over the harbour, live music drifting through narrow streets, and relaxed dining beneath warm Mediterranean skies.
Good to know
The currency is the euro (EUR). Rethymno lies between Chania and Heraklion and is easily reached by road from either airport. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and ideal sightseeing conditions, while summer brings lively festivals and sun-drenched beach days.