I stayed at the super relaxing Greek resort with hidden beaches, laid-back DJ tunes and private pools
My inability to relax on holiday is certainly being tested. I could get used to this.
5
5
That's the ethos of the Numo Ierapetra Beach Resort tucked into the southern curve of Crete — slow and easy living.
Having joined the Hilton's Curio Collection last year, the adults-only 5H resort still feels sparklingly new, despite having opened its doors in 2021.
I spent the next few days in utter bliss. Barely an hour after checking in, my first stop was the spa for the hotel's complimentary 15-minute massage.
I was surprised at how such a short session was one of the best I've ever had.
The stubborn knots lining my shoulder blades were easily unkinked within a few minutes.
The relaxation continued at the hotel swimming pools, with two to choose from.
The main, bigger pool is the most popular, lined with sun loungers covered in squishy striped covers you sink into as you sunbathe, or snooze.
Live DJ sets and even saxophone players sprang up throughout the day, but they did not feel overwhelming.
There is just a laid-back, beach club vibe. I became a frequent visitor to the pool bar too, making it my mission to try all the signature cocktails.
The Numo Tequila Sunrise was a firm favourite.
The TUI guide to Crete from best beaches to passport rules
The smaller, tucked-away swimming pool is the place for a quiet escape, with no music and just serene, bright-blue water overlooked by the mountains.
While Crete doesn't have private beaches, the dark sandy one behind Numo feels secluded enough when swimming in the Mediterranean Sea.
Fish tacos
But the star of the show was my grandly named King Evergreen Absolute Suite, which was surrounded by a huge outdoor deck with its own plunge pool.
While Crete doesn't have private beaches, the dark sandy one behind Numo feels secluded enough when swimming in the Mediterranean Sea
When I craved some privacy in the evenings, I relaxed on private loungers while dipping my toes into the water.
Rooms are inspired by the tamarisk trees that line the coastline, with muted green, grey and brown decor.
Even the entry-level rooms come with this modern palette and a balcony or terrace.
My suite was definitely a step up, though, with a cosy lounge area, spacious bedroom and huge open-plan bathroom complete with a roll-top bath.
A day of drinking wine on the patio meant I needed to line my stomach, and stays at the Numo Ierapetra Beach Resort can include breakfast or half-board with dinner.
The buffet restaurant Tamarisk has some of the best views of the house, with the pool to one side and the beach to the other.
But what the buffet lacks in size, it makes up for in taste.
One evening, my rich lamb was accompanied by spinach orzo, and a cabbage and kimchee salad.
The next day, I gorged on creamy pasta with barbecued chicken and a variety of Greek salads.
The spread at breakfast includes fresh hot pastries, bread, fruit and cooked options.
There is also a speciality restaurant called Menoa, serving Peruvian cuisine such as fresh fish tacos, and you will get a discount if staying half-board.
Guests can head to Kafené, the onsite cafe and gift shop, for an authentic Greek coffee made by heating it in sand.
I was amazed by how quiet the resort felt, despite being at full capacity.
And there is more than enough to keep you busy.
A highlight was the outdoor cinema, screening films such as Mamma Mia! and Barbie every evening.
You can spend the afternoon browsing the hotel's clothes shop before a personal training session at the gym.
While the resort does its best to stop you from wanting to leave, we took a day trip to nearby Kristas.
One of the oldest villages on the island, it has pretty, winding alleyways and hundreds of plants surrounding doorways.
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It is also the best place for a souvenir, with locally made jewellery and clothing stores alongside more touristy trinket spots, selling magnets and pottery.
It is only as the midday heat started getting to me that I was tempted back to the hotel for a dip in the ocean before yet another delicious dinner.
I had certainly never felt so zen. Who needs yoga when you can head to Numo instead?
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