King Minos Retreat Resort & Spa

King_Minos_Retreat_Resort_&_Spa
King Minos Retreat Resort & Spa

King Minos Retreat Resort & Spa

Close to sandy Star Beach (approx. 400m downhill) Traditional Greek charm with modern, minimalist interiors Swim-up style sharing pools, private pools & outdoor whirlpools Relaxing freshwater pool area with sunbeds, parasols & towel service Modern, bright rooms and suites ideal for couples & families Free Wi-Fi throughout

Official rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rooms 211 • Blocks: 7 • Floors: 2 • Lifts: 4
Board options All Inclusive Plus, Half Board
Children generally classed as up to 12yrs
Ideal for couples, friends & families wanting a stylish yet relaxed Cretan base.

Overview

 
Perched on a sun-drenched hillside above Hersonissos, King Minos Retreat Resort & Spa blends traditional Cretan charm with crisp, modern design. Think whitewashed architecture, bougainvillea-draped terraces and a calm freshwater pool, all within walking distance of sandy Star Beach and the buzzy nightlife of the north coast. With All Inclusive Plus dining, a pampering spa, gym and an impressive line-up of rooms from cosy doubles to indulgent private-pool suites, it’s an easy choice for couples and families chasing that classic Greek-island escape.

Wide Aegean views, terraced gardens and a sleek pool terrace set the scene at King Minos Retreat. Inside, you’ll find airy, light-filled rooms dressed in neutral tones and natural textures, with optional sea views, swim-up style sharing pools, outdoor whirlpools or full private pools for that extra splash of luxury. For couples or families keen to tap into Crete (Heraklion Area)’s beach-life and nightlife in one break, King Minos Retreat Resort & Spa delivers the perfect balance. It’s around 1 hour from Heraklion Airport (HER), combining a peaceful hillside setting with a 400m wander to sandy Star Beach and handy access to Koutouloufari and Hersonissos. See more Greece holidays.

Map & location


Hersonissos, Crete (Heraklion Area), Greece

King Minos Retreat takes advantage of a hillside perch above Hersonissos, giving many rooms and terraces a sweeping view towards the Cretan Sea. Despite the elevated position, you’re still close to the action: it’s a short walk down to Star Beach for a day of swimming and watersports, while the traditional village of Koutouloufari and the livelier resort centre of Hersonissos are both within easy reach for evenings out.

Hersonissos itself mixes modern beach life and Greek tradition: beach clubs and bars along the strip, atmospheric old lanes in the hilltop villages, and easy day trips to ancient Knossos or the island of Spinalonga.

  • Approx. transfer time from airport 1 hour

Facilities

Pool & outdoors


The heart of the resort is its outdoor freshwater pool – a chilled, contemporary space with plenty of sunbeds and parasols dotted around the terrace. Pool towels are complimentary, so you can travel lighter, and there’s a pool bar handy for light bites and drinks.

For beach days, stroll around 400m downhill to sandy Star Beach. Here you’ll find clear, shallow waters, sunbeds and a full line-up of watersports and beach clubs nearby, ideal whether you’re travelling as a family or in a couple looking for a livelier scene.

Spa, sports & wellness


Wellness comes easy at King Minos Retreat. The on-site spa features a sauna, steam room and a menu of massage and beauty treatments (charges apply; minimum age 12yrs). It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day exploring the island.

Fitness fans have access to an air-conditioned gym equipped with cardio machines, free weights and fixed strength equipment (typically open 10:00–19:00, 01 Apr–31 Oct; minimum age 18yrs). Evenings can be as low-key or lively as you like, with frequent and regular entertainment during the main season – think live music and DJ sets a few nights a week.

Practical touches include a 24-hour reception offering concierge-style assistance and luggage storage, plus free Wi‑Fi so you can share those sea views with ease.

Activities


? Frequent & regular evening entertainment (main season), including live music & DJ nights
?️ Air-conditioned gym with cardio & strength equipment (18+, seasonal hours)
? Spa with sauna, steam room & massage/beauty treatments (12+, extra charge)
?️ Easy access to Star Beach for watersports, beach clubs & family fun
? Great base for day trips to Knossos, Spinalonga & traditional Cretan villages

Guest services


?️ Reception with concierge-style services & luggage storage
? Free Wi‑Fi throughout the hotel
? Pool towels free of charge
?‍?‍? Highchairs available in restaurants for families
? Lift access across most blocks (4 lifts, 2 floors)
? Certified sustainable hotel credentials (according to supplier information)
? In-room safes & daily housekeeping

Food & drink

Dine your way around Crete without leaving the hotel. The main restaurant is a bright buffet space serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with show-cooking stations and a mix of Greek favourites and international dishes. For something more intimate, there’s an à la carte restaurant by the pool for leisurely dinners with a resort-view backdrop.

Two bars, including a pool bar, keep you topped up with coffees, cocktails and cold beers throughout the day and into the evening. A smart-casual dress code applies at dinner (no beachwear; long trousers requested for gentlemen).

All Inclusive Plus (summary)
• Buffet-style breakfast, lunch & dinner in the main restaurant
• One included visit per stay to the à la carte restaurant for a three-course dinner (reservation required)
• One bottle of wine included during lunch and dinner
• Snacks at selected times for a minimum of 3 hours per day
• Selected local wine, beer, spirits, some international branded drinks & soft drinks for at least 12 hours a day

Details, times and inclusions can change; you’ll receive the latest information at check-in. What All Inclusive typically includes.

Rooms
Classic Double Room with Garden View for Sole Use Sleeps 1 adult


Sleeps: 1 adult
All the features of the Classic Double with Garden View, tailored for solo travellers who like a bit more space and comfort.

Classic Double Room with Side Sea View Sleeps 2 adults


Sleeps: 2 adults
As per the Classic Double but with a side-on glimpse of the Cretan Sea from the balcony – ideal if you’d like a subtle upgrade without stretching the budget.

Classic Double Room with Garden View & Sharing Pool Sleeps 2–3 guests


Sleeps: 2–3 guests
Located around a shared pool that’s accessible directly from your terrace or balcony (with sunbeds), these rooms give that swim-up feel. They share all the core amenities – Wi‑Fi, air con, TV, shower bathroom, coffee facilities, fridge, pillow menu and minibar (charge).

Classic Double Room with Garden View & Private Pool Sleeps 2–3 guests


Sleeps: 2–3 guests
Step straight from your terrace into your own private pool. These rooms add sunbeds on the terrace and are a great choice for special occasions or those lazy, do-not-disturb days.

Classic Double Room with Sea View & Private Pool Sleeps 2–3 guests


Sleeps: 2–3 guests
The most indulgent of the classic doubles, combining a private pool and sea views. Expect the same high-spec facilities – from USB charging ports to bathrobes – with more of those “just one more photo” moments.

Classic Double Room with Garden View & Outdoor Whirlpool Sleeps 2–3 guests


Sleeps: 2–3 guests
Swapping the pool for an outdoor whirlpool on the balcony, these rooms are made for evenings under the stars. All the standard in-room comforts are included.

Classic Double Room with Sea View & Outdoor Whirlpool Sleeps 2–3 guests


Sleeps: 2–3 guests
Enjoy a sea view backdrop as you soak in your private outdoor whirlpool. Inside, the décor is calm and modern, with the full complement of amenities.

Maisonette Family Room with Garden View / Side Sea View Sleeps 2–4 guests


Sleeps: 2–4 guests
Split-level family rooms offering extra space and a little extra privacy between sleeping areas. Choose between garden or side sea views. Great for families with older children or small groups of friends.

Family Room with Garden View & Private Pool Sleeps 2–4 guests


Sleeps: 2–4 guests
All the family-friendly space of a standard family room with the bonus of a private pool and sunbeds on the terrace. Perfect when you want easy pool time without leaving your room.

Petit Suite with Garden View Sleeps 2–4 guests


Sleeps: 2–4 guests
Cosy yet stylish suites with garden views, a sitting area and balcony. Ideal for couples wanting more room to relax or families looking for a smart upgrade.

Petit Suite with Sea View & Private Pool Sleeps 2–4 guests


Sleeps: 2–4 guests
Enjoy suite comfort with a private pool and sea views. A great option for longer stays or celebration trips, with sunbeds, balcony or terrace and all the tech and comforts you’d expect.

Petit Suite with Sea View & Outdoor Whirlpool Sleeps 2–4 guests


Sleeps: 2–4 guests
Trade the pool for an outdoor whirlpool and big sea views. Perfect for couples who want a boutique-feel suite with a romantic, open-air touch.

Serenity Suite with Sea View Sleeps 2–4 guests


Sleeps: 2–4 guests
Spacious suites facing the sea, designed with a serene, pared-back look. They offer a separate lounge-style area plus a balcony for slow mornings and sunset drinks.

Sanctuary Suite with Sea View & Private Pool Sleeps 2–4 guests


Sleeps: 2–4 guests
Among the most premium options at the resort, these suites offer generous indoor space, a private pool with sunbeds and clear sea views. A great pick if you’re planning to spend most of your time unwinding at the hotel.

Garden Oasis Suite with Private Pool Sleeps 2–4 guests


Sleeps: 2–4 guests
Set within the gardens, these suites deliver a real indoor–outdoor feel, with a private pool, sunbeds and stylish interiors that echo the Cretan landscape.

Signature Suite with Sea View & Whirlpool Sleeps 2–4 guests


Sleeps: 2–4 guests
Top-tier suites with expansive sea views and an outdoor whirlpool on the balcony or terrace. If you’re after that “wow” factor for a honeymoon or special occasion, this is the one to look for.

All rooms include:
Flat-screen TV • Wi‑Fi • safety deposit box • bathrobes & slippers • hairdryer • balcony or terrace (most types) • air conditioning • shower bathroom • pillow menu • USB charging port • coffee-making facilities & kettle • fridge • minibar (local charge) • iron & ironing board • daily cleaning & towel change.

*Images indicative; layouts/views may vary.

More info

Good to know
• Destination: Hersonissos, Crete (Heraklion Area), Greece
• Flight time from UK: around 4.5 hours (direct)
• Local time: GMT +2 hours
• Currency: Euro (€)
• Language: Greek (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
• Beach style: sandy Star Beach with watersports & beach bars
• Vibe: a mix of traditional hilltop villages, family-friendly attractions and a lively nightlife strip by the sea

Hotel facilities, entertainment schedules, opening dates and board inclusions can vary by season and occupancy and may change without notice. Some services and facilities carry an extra charge, payable locally.

For entry rules and health guidance see the UK FCDO Spain advice.

Prices & book

Find your dates

Live availability and real-time offers. Low deposits, full ATOL protection.

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FAQs
Is King Minos Retreat Resort & Spa on the beach?
The hotel is not directly on the sand but sits on a hillside approximately 400m from Star Beach. It’s an easy walk downhill to reach the sandy shore, beach clubs and watersports. The return walk is uphill, so guests with reduced mobility may prefer to use local taxis.
Is King Minos Retreat Resort & Spa suitable for families?
Yes. While the styling feels very grown-up and boutique, there’s a good choice of family-friendly rooms, including maisonettes and family rooms sleeping up to four, plus private-pool options. Highchairs are available in the restaurants, and the nearby beach and Hersonissos attractions make it a strong option for families with children up to 12 years.
What is included with All Inclusive Plus at King Minos Retreat?
All Inclusive Plus typically covers buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner in the main restaurant, one à la carte dinner per stay by reservation, a bottle of wine with lunch and dinner, snacks at selected times for at least three hours per day and a range of local and some international alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks for a minimum of 12 hours daily. Exact details can change, so you’ll receive the current All Inclusive information on arrival.
Does King Minos Retreat have a dress code?
Yes. A smart-casual dress code applies in the restaurants, particularly at dinner. The hotel requests that beachwear is not worn in the dining areas and that gentlemen wear long trousers in the evening. This helps keep the overall atmosphere relaxed but refined.
Is there a spa and gym at King Minos Retreat Resort & Spa?
There is a dedicated spa area with a sauna, steam room and a selection of massage and beauty treatments, available for an extra charge and generally for guests aged 12 and over. An air-conditioned gym with cardio and strength equipment is available for guests aged 18+ during set hours in the main season (usually 10:00–19:00).
How long is the transfer from Heraklion Airport (HER)?
The transfer from Heraklion Airport to King Minos Retreat Resort & Spa usually takes around 1 hour by shared coach transfer, depending on traffic and how many stops are made along the way. Private transfers are often a little quicker.
Does King Minos Retreat Resort & Spa offer free Wi‑Fi?
Yes. Free Wi‑Fi is available throughout the hotel, including in guest rooms and most public areas, so you can stay connected, stream or work remotely if you need to.
Are there many bars and restaurants nearby?
You’ll find a selection of bars and restaurants about 500m from the hotel, with more choice in Koutouloufari (approx. 900m away) and the main resort centre of Hersonissos (around 1.5km), where there’s a lively strip of tavernas, bars and clubs along the seafront.
Which room type should I choose for something special?
For a celebration, honeymoon or just an indulgent escape, we’d look at the Petit Suites, Serenity Suites or Sanctuary, Garden Oasis and Signature Suites. Many of these come with either a private pool or outdoor whirlpool and sea or garden views, giving you an elevated, boutique feel with plenty of privacy.