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CRETE Known to the locals as Big Blue, Crete is the largest of all the Greek islands, and its astounding geographical diversity will leave you in awe. It is separated into four prefectures, or areas: Chania, Heraklion, Lassithi and Rethymno. On this enchanting island, you'll find rugged mountains, long sandy beaches, rocky bays, hidden coves, astonishing gorges and the iridescent Aegean Sea. You'll be able to breathe in the smell of fresh herbs, delight in sumptuous cheeses and olives, enjoy the local wines and feast on delectable fruit picked directly from the trees. Chania is the largest town of western Crete and offers the traditional old quarters, colorful houses, narrow alleys and beautiful flowered gardens. Full of picturesque villages on the top of beautiful hills, Heraklion boasts a plethora of lovely beaches, varied nightlife and interesting museums. According to mythology, the area of Lassithi is the birthplace of Zeus, with moored fishing boats and a verdant plateau full of old windmills and superb beaches. Divided into the Old Town and the New Town, Rethymno is full of life with old buildings, and stone-paved narrow alleys decorating the city. Overlooking a sparkling blue bay, Blue Palace commands breathtaking views of the island of Spinalonga. Elegantly appointed bungalows, suits and private villas combine contemporary décor and flawless finishing touches. The culinary experience sets the resort apart, ranging from Asian fusion, Mediterranean Steakhouse cuisine to traditional Greek and Italian flavors. The award-winning Elounda Spa & Thalassotherapy guarantees to sooth your senses and nourish your soul. The endless blue from the 142 private pools and the serene waters of the Cretan Pelagos blend together to make this place an extraordinary destination. ooooo ooooo ELOUNDA BAY PALACE Elounda Bay Palace is set amongst the historic, cultural and naturally varied beauty of northeastern Crete. Its tranquil setting in Elounda at the edge of Mirabello Bay, a truly blissful place to call home, is surrounded by 20 acres of lush gardens. This award-winning luxury resort combines Crete's charms, unique hospitality and renowned levels of personal service. It features lavish suites and villas with stunning views, a secluded white-sand beach, extensive gardens with walking paths, sumptuous waterfront dining, the unique holistic Thalaspa Chenot, indoor and outdoor pools, watersports center, five floodlit tennis courts, basketball and volleyball courts, and a supervised children's program. 68 Crete ooooo BLUE PALACE, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT & SPA ELOUNDA BEACH HOTEL & VILLAS The superb Elounda Beach Hotel, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, lies on the bay of Mirabello, occupying 40 acres of lush, fragrant and colorful gardens with striking Aegean Sea views. Contemporary architecture and a discreet opulence inspire the décor in the luxurious accommodations, which include spacious guestrooms, suites and bungalows. Known for its first-class service, excellent cuisine and unmistakable Mediterranean flair, Elounda Beach features a pristine white-sandy beach, the rejuvenating Thalaspa Chenot, exquisite gourmet cuisine and legendary wine cellar, watersports center, heated outdoor seawater pool, tennis, open-air amphitheater, and supervised children's program.