TRAVEL
CAVO SPADA RESORT & SPA
Driving along the coast just outside Chania, the Cavo Spada Resort & Spa reveals itself as a modern oasis that somehow blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings. The low-rise architecture, never higher that two storeys, white stone tones, expanses of glass and plentiful blues from room-side plunge pools to the expanse of sea beyond give it a luxurious air without ever feeling flashy. This is a resort that knows its strength lies in its sense of space and its friendly and efficient team, and it makes full use of its beautiful setting on the edge of Kolymbari Bay.
In terms of rooms, we had the pleasure of staying in adjacent rooms that joined at the rear with our own plunge pool separated by clever triangular sails that added additional privacy while still letting the Mediterranean sun stream through. The setup gave everyone breathing space while keeping us close, while the pool was the perfect morning suntrap for post breakfast dips as the day started with a relaxed ease. Interiors are cool and contemporary, with soft neutral palettes and marble touches that feel calm against the bright Cretan sun. Each room had a generous terrace, ideal for slow starts and lazy afternoons. Bathrooms were sleek and practical, with powerful rain showers, local honey and olivebased shampoos and body washes, and deep tubs, as well as thoughtful touches throughout such as robes and slippers, coffee machines, and- for those on ultra all inclusive- a great mini bar of premium spirits, local beer, juice and soft drinks that was replenished on a daily basis. All the luxuries that make a family holiday feel just that bit more indulgent.
The resort’ s heart is its vast lagoon-style pool, framed by palm trees and looking out to sea. It’ s one of those rare spaces where you can swim proper lengths and still find shallow areas perfect for children to splash in. We quickly fell into a rhythm of mornings at the pool alternating between gentle laps, reading on a lounger or indulging in a poolside iced coffee. For the more energetic, as well as offering tennis courts and a gym( and being the official training camp base for the Swedish Olympic team!), there are aqua classes and beach volleyball matches, while the little ones can gravitate towards the children’ s splash pool or shaded play area.
And then there’ s the beach. A sweep of pebbles lead into the endlessly blue sea. The water here is clear and Blue Flag accredited, and the resort keeps everything seamless, with plenty of loungers, parasols, pool bars and a snack bar area for when midafternoon hunger strikes.
Food is where Cavo Spada really shines. The main buffet restaurant is a celebration of both local and international flavours, with themed evenings that kept even the pickiest of our brood intrigued. The Cretan corner became a personal highlight: Greek salads glistening with olive oil, dakos rusks piled with ripe tomatoes and feta, and lots of thyme and lemon-based slow cooked stews of lamb or beef on the evening menu. Breakfasts
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