The five star Asterion Suites & Spa occupies a quiet spot in Crete’s Platanias area in the west of the island. Taking its name from the King of Crete in Greek Mythology (Asterion was one of the river-gods), this luxurious paradise boasts an incredible main pool area overlooking its own private beach.
Around 40 minutes drive from Chania airport, Asterion Suites & Spa is set back from the main strip of bars, restaurants and shops to give it that air of exclusivity, while being just a short walk away from everything you could possibly need.
Bohemian chic with Cali vibes and boutique suites, the hotels interiors and architecture have been carefully thought out with the complex making you feel that ‘zen’ vibe as soon as you walk into the stylish reception area.
While there are elements of old Greek design, the modern architecture shines through in every area of the hotel. From the long open plan restaurant with open kitchen and al fresco terrace boasting those incredible sea views, to the clean lines and deliberate right angles of each design element, it all marries together seamlessly to form a resort which is slick, stylish and aesthetically dreamy.
With 67 rooms which have all been beautifully renovated as part of the Louis Hotels Group re-branding earlier this year, many have swim up pools or plunge pools with gorgeous views out across green hills and even higher snow-capped mountains!
Decorated in soft, calming tones, our suite boasted top quality furniture including a luxurious sofa and chairs, kitchen area and table, and a wonderfully comfortable king size bed which moulded and cocooned for a peaceful night’s sleep. The en-suite bathroom, which was also accessible from a second door into the living room area, offered up a spacious rainfall shower, separate toilet and two sinks with mirrors – one at either end of the bathroom for ease. For two friends sharing, we fully appreciated having the space to do our make-up at the same time!
In keeping with the theme of the hotel, room names range from cosmos and planet to ocean and galaxy. The daddy of all rooms is the universe panorama suite which has a private rooftop pool for the height of indulgence.
With a view of our private pool from the bedroom, we loved kicking back and sunbathing on the loungers, knowing everything we needed was just inside the door behind us!
While the convenience and indulgence of our own pool area was very much appreciated, the main pool area at Asterion was just too fabulous to pass up on. With private cabanas, beach loungers and luxury double beds located all around the amazing pool, there’s a space to suit everyone whether you’re full-on sunbathing or want to enjoy some shade. The poolside bar offered up everything we could want from tequilas to cocktails, beers and wines. Views of the beach and the sea were the icing on top of a very luxurious cake.
Main restaurant Matter was the perfect place to start the day with a delicious Cretan breakfast buffet. We loved the choice of fresh fruits, yoghurts and cereals, cold meats, baked breads and eggs, and in the evenings, the luxurious a la carte restaurant 35° had a great menu made with locally sourced, quality ingredients. We loved the simplicity of the dishes and the perfectly balanced flavours. Our daily lunch order quickly became hummus and hot pittas, feasting on piles of whipped up tsatsiki and baking hot breads. In the evenings, Greek salads and chunky burgers became our go-to. Of course, no evening would be complete without a shot of raki!
Asterion has a fabulous spa, and we indulged in relaxing mid-afternoon massages which sent us into trance-like states, before heading back to the pool for more rest and relaxation – exactly how every holiday should be!
Crete has to be one of the friendliest islands on the planet and the Asterion is no exception. The whole team felt like a family and by the end of our holiday, they felt like our family! It’s the kind of resort you could gladly visit time and time again, safe in the knowledge that you’ll feel well looked after in a true five star setting, from the moment you arrive.
Asterion Suites and Spa is most definitely a jewel in the Cretan crown – book your stay here.
