Set in the quaint village of Plaka, near the charming Elounda Bay, CAYO Exclusive Resort & Spa is perfectly positioned for families looking to experience the beauty of Crete and immerse themselves in rich Cretan culture. A recipe for the perfect family summer holiday, the sun-drenched island promises mind-boggling mythology, adventure-filled hikes, delicious food, and incredible ancient sites, with something to tempt even the tiniest of travellers.
Crete’s Rich Mythology CAYO Exclusive Resort & Spa is the perfect base to explore some of Crete’s most famous attractions and breath-taking landscapes. Well-known for its rich history and mythology, Crete is ideal for families looking for educational yet fun activities for children. Pay a visit to the recently opened Park of Greek Mythology, located near the Dikteo Cave - Zeus’ birthplace, according to the myth. Designed to offer visitors a learning and interactive experience surrounding Greek mythology, Minoan civilization and Crete’s rural life, the Park of Greek Mythology is an unmissable family activity.
Located only a short boat ride away from CAYO, Spinalonga Island is one of Crete’s most celebrated attractions and an UNESCO World Heritage nominee that history buffs can’t miss. Closer to Heraklion, the archaeological site of Knossos - Crete’s largest Bronze Age archaeological site and Europe’s oldest city - and the Knossos Palace are a must for archaeology-lovers. Visitors can walk around the ancient ruins and immerse themselves in the historic surroundings of the site, where ancient myths, like the tales of the Labyrinth with its Minotaur, and the father and son myth Daedalus and Icarus, are believed to have taken place.
Family Time by the Water Equipped with two and three-bedroom villas, CAYO was conceptualised to ensure that every room is complete with a view of the iridescent Spinalonga Island, a private plunge pool and a sun-soaked terrace. Families can spend quality time together relaxing by the water – either by their own private pool, or on a secret spot on the pretty Plaka Beach. Guests can enjoy refreshing beverages at Enastron Bar or freshly made snacks from Stone Beach Club, CAYO’s bustling beach bar. After a fun-filled day at the beach, families can dine in one of the resort’s four restaurants, with menus curated by chef Lefteris Lazarou, the first Greek chef to be awarded a Michelin star.
Shopping in Agios Nikolaos A stone’s throw away from the resort, the coastal town of Agios Nikolaos - with its picturesque marina, traditional houses and local markets - offers unique shopping opportunities for those looking to buy Cretan handcrafted products. Framed by the sea and the famous Voulismeni Lake where, according to Greek mythology, goddesses Athena and Artemis used to bathe, the town combines the relaxing feel of a seaside village with the amenities of a cosmopolitan port. Families are invited to explore the enticing town and its scenic streets, visiting the numerous local museums like the Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos, which is considered one of the most significant establishments in Crete.
An overnight stay starts from £350 per room including breakfast. For more information, visit www.cayoresort.com
