REVIEWS
GRECOTEL CARAMEL Rethymno, Crete
On the northern coast, about 90 minutes’ drive from the airport, you’ll find Rethymno, a picturesque old fishing village. The newly opened Caramel lies just outside on Crete’s longest beach. Walking through the sleek, subdued lobby and out onto the steps overlooking the circular pool, you find a feast of clean, white architecture and modern design. What hits you most, though, is the feeling of tranquillity from the clever use of space, which gives the resort a sense of being much bigger than it actually is. Add to that the warm staff and a sophisticated but largely local menu, and you get chic style matched with impeccable Cretan hospitality. Small in comparison to other Grecotel properties, Caramel is just 69 suites and villas, with winding palm- fringed paths. There are smaller suites in the main house with sea and garden views while villas are right on the beach. Rooms are individually designed and decorated but expect hand-painted tiles in traditional prints, a blue and white colour palette with hints of gold, and contemporary furnishings teamed with eclectic pieces of artwork and antiques. Each feels airy, with even the smallest suite big enough to comfortably include a sitting area.
The resort is split into two sections: by the beach is quiet and soporific, while the pool area encircled by daybeds is more lively with music and the hum of guests eating and drinking at the à la carte Confetti pool bar and restaurant. The Panther Piano bar and breakfast rooms line an overlooking balcony, perfect for evening cocktails or feasting on the buffet. Food is exceptional and ample,
5
with a dedicated Cretan corner to try traditional staples such as the rusk-like Cretan bread and local cheeses; fresh fish dishes are a speciality.
Cretans are proud of their heritage. A trip to the nearby organic Agreco farm allows you to experience first hand the best of local produce, from fresh goats’ cheese, warm and fresh from the vat, to firewater raki, all made there alongside thyme honey, organic wines and olive oil. Take the daily tour followed by a 30-course dinner service on the veranda, surrounded by intoxicating smells and a stunning sunset. Also nearby is the Aghia
Irina convent, where the nine residing nuns produce beautiful hand-woven linens and prayer bracelets. The beachside villas even have a
private gazebo and sunbeds, as well as regular service from the beach bar.
Double rooms start at ¤245 on a B&B basis
Aegean Airlines operates direct flights to Heraklion from Gatwick, with up to six flights a week, from £96 (
aegeanair.com)
CARAMEL.GRECOTEL.COM Caroline Brien
aspire september 2015 — 85
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