A long weekend at Daios Cove
Tucked into a private bay in the North East of Crete, Greece’s largest island, you’ll find Daios Cove, a hidden gem of serenity and seclusion.
It was May and we drove a little over an hour along a winding coastal path from Heraklion Airport to the southern portion of the Aegean Sea, which laps up against the coastline of mainland Greece, Crete and Asia Minor. I’ve never been to Greece in May and was afraid the weather may be a little crisp for a beach holiday, however had the pleasant surprise of it being nicely toasty, dry, with only a slight breeze that grew in the evening.
Coming away out of season is always a blessing when you’re used to a bustling, busy London life. The hotel was alive but nicely quiet, with no pressure to book every dinner table or secure a sun lounger in the morning. The sun trap of the bay meant that the mid 20’s felt like 30, and the sea was calm in our cup of the ocean.
Our stay was for a short but incredibly sweet three nights, and we managed to experience most of what the heavenly Daios Cove had to offer.
Rooms
We were incredibly lucky to receive a junior suite, with its own pool (yes, a private pool)! Albeit a huge treat, it sat in the shade so was too chilly for our liking but we persisted with dips despite. Above all else, I favoured the beach for swimming, the horizon and calm waters were the perfect remedy.
Our room, like most was sea facing with sweeping views over Vathi Bay with its clear blue seas and arid mountains. Our bed was huge, comfortable and our bathroom came with skincare products from local independent companies, which was a nice touch.
Sustainability
An ever important factor, sustainability in hospitality is a tough one but we were encouraged to re-use towels and there was a no single use plastic policy, with water served in glass bottles and loo paper sourced from a sustainable brand. I was happy to see the conscious approach.
Image shot on iPhone
Services and Facilities
Whether you’re yearning for an active escape or some much needed R&R, Daios Cove offers a balance for both, with activities for families and adults only including tennis courts, a state of the art gym, and fitness classes by London’s most popular boxing outfit BXR.
In 2022 they launched a new 2,500 sqm tranquil sanctuary and wellness offering, KEPOS by Coco. Offering uninterrupted views across the bay, KEPOS combines a holistic healing philosophy with innovative medical technology. Their curated signature offerings include regenerative treatments such as cryotherapy (my favourite), hyperbaric oxygen therapy and colon hydrotherapy. While these are more functional treatments, their approach is holistic, experienced with their relaxing treatments including a superb range of facials using 111SKIN products, wellness therapies and massage. One of our favourite hours was spent in their spa using the thermal bathing suite, multi temperature saunas, a steam room and vitality pool.
Whether you’re a beach bather or enjoy slipping in a pool, both options are superb at Daios Cove. The beach staff were always on hand, and there always seemed to be loungers available. We were told that in the height of the season spaces are scarce, but they always make it work so that everyone gets their spot.
Restaurants
The resort is home to six restaurants with award winning chefs at the helm.. From buffet dining to beach bar lounge vibes, you don’t need to leave the resort to get a taste of traditional Greek cuisine with The Taverna, or experience more of a high end à la carte experience with Pangea, boasting scenic views for breakfast with homemade jams and local honey. Our most memorable spot has to have been The Beach Bar with its relaxed, hip ambience (you could be in Cannes or Mykonos), grilled fresh fish and marinated meats, ceviche and flavourful salads.
As a note, if you join the Resident’s Club you are granted inclusive à la carte dining in all six of the resort’s restaurants, with an extensive wine and cocktail list; including their “wellness” cocktail selection made using elixirs, botanical infusions and raw juices which we had fun working our way through.
Guests
The resort seemed to attract all ages, including families, singles and couples. While there were lots of young children, the spa and one of the pool areas is adult only, and the space is large enough to make it a predominant adult-focused getaway if that’s what you’re looking for. For those requiring childcare and family friendly settings, Daios Cove is perfect, with a protected beach space, special child dining times with a variety of food options, a crèche on site and lots of activities to keep young ones entertained.
Sad to leave Daios Cove and head home to reality, we left with magical memories and cannot wait to return.
