Dive into the depths of luxury at the brand-new property on the hillside of Crete’s Elounda Bay. Exclusive by name and nature, Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa is worth every one of its five stars thanks to its elegant atmosphere and the alluring interiors, the state-of-the-art facilities and luxurious accommodation. The property treats each and every one of its guests like royalty and is located within walking distance to Plaka village and has private access to the beach. Exceptional panoramic views of the Spinalonga islet, which is under consideration to achieve UNESCO World Heritage Site status, can be admired wherever you turn your head. The hotel prides itself on its environmental awareness, creating an eco-friendly design concept that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. We know what you’re thinking – it all sounds too good to be true. Well, believe us when we say that Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa is all this and so much more, so we’re giving you an in-depth, inside look on just how utterly spectacular this new Cretan gem is. You’ll be packing your bags before you know it…
The Cayo concept
As if Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa couldn’t get more exceptional, the hotel’s environmental concept instigates a conscientious effort to be kinder to the planet in more ways than one. The property’s design and architecture have been meticulously considered and planned to blend perfectly with the landscape, and the bioclimatic architecture highlights the healthful properties of the local climate. The slope of the ground is utilized for the optimal air and light exposure, which varies from every corner and angle of the resort, prominently featuring its outstanding decoration and panoramic views. Cayo Exclusive Resort also uses a state-of-the-art heat recovery system which saves substantial amounts of electrical energy, and biodegradable plastic water bottles which contain a seed that guests themselves can plant in the hotel grounds to help restore the natural surroundings.
A culinary experience
Going hungry certainly isn’t an option at Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa. Four exceptional restaurants are at your disposal, all with menus that have been curated by the stellar chef Lefteris Lazarou, the first Greek chef to have been awarded a Michelin Star. Across all of the eateries, gorgeous views and a vibrant atmosphere is a given – the food is truly the icing on the cake. At the Ambrosia Main Restaurant, everyone is catered for with the kids’ menu and vegetarian selections across both breakfast and dinner in a modern buffet-style setting. Al fresco dining comes to life at Sage & Thyme which is located by the swimming pool and specialises in decadent Mediterranean cuisines. Tuck into light snacks during the day as you lounge poolside or reenergise with a delicious á la carte lunch with dishes such as seafood linguine, rib eye steak and superfood salad. If you’re seeking the ultimate romantic experience, you can’t go wrong with a meal at Kelari. Known as the place to be as the sun begins to set, indulge in a selection of timeless traditional Greek recipes that are excellently paired with a wine list that boasts labels from all over the world. From a fresh juice to a variety of authentic Cretan “meze” or signature cocktails, you’ll never run out of choices at the Stone Beach House. Enjoy the day at CAYO’s seafront with a view of Plaka’s picturesque village and the famous islet of Spinalonga.
What dreams are made of
With a collection of 74 sensational rooms and additional villas, a heavenly sleep is guaranteed at Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa. Each abode is sea-facing with pinch-me panoramas of the UNESCO-worthy Spinalonga islet and most even come with their very own private pool, not to mention stellar mod-cons including a Smart television with satellite channels, individually controlled air conditioning, a minibar, luxury bath amenities and so much more. For larger parties of up to six people, the villas are nothing short of a home away from home. Luxury comes to life with these three-level premium residencies that are flooded with natural light, boast spacious outdoor areas and mind-blowing views of the azure Cretan archipelago. It truly doesn’t get any better than this.
Master the art of relaxation
Let us introduce you to the Armonia Spa – yes, it is as relaxing as it sounds. Wellness at Cayo is one of the main pillars of the resort, believing that new approaches to wellness change the ways we live and travel thus we must search for healthier ways to protect the world. So, leave behind all aspects of technology and your stressful daily routine and rediscover your body’s natural rhythms to achieve the perfect balance with mind and spirit. Facilities at the spa include a large heated indoor pool, a steam room, three treatment rooms, a sauna, and a hair and nail salon. The variety of spa treatments ensure that there’s something for everyone, with the team of experts catering to your individual needs using special products to enhance your pampering experience from the outside in. After-sun treatments, salt and olive oil body scrubs, hot stone massages, ritualistic therapies… whatever you desire will be seamlessly catered for and you’ll exit Armonia Spa feeling like a million dollars.
Activities galore
If your idea of holiday relaxation involves a little more stimulation, you won’t be disappointed. Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa boasts numerous facilities and activities that will entertain both the very young to the young at heart, ensuring that boredom isn’t on the agenda from the moment you step through the front doors. Cool off from the Cretan heat with a swim in one of the hotel’s two main grand swimming pools, measuring 188 and 160 square metres each. Savour a spectacular view of Spinalonga as you take a load off on a sunbed underneath an umbrella, sipping on a cocktail from the pool bar and enjoying the latest bestselling novel. Work up a sweat in the fitness centre which offers the latest in training and cardiovascular equipment or enjoy an evening performance of theatre and music at Cayo’s outdoor amphitheatre, the perfect end to a day in the sun.
The hotel is also in a prime spot to explore Crete’s adventurous side, and those who desire to be freed from gravity must take a dive beneath the surface of the bay of Mirabello’s crystal-clear waters. Here is where you can discover a rare natural marine environment with impressive visibility; there are many diving companies in the surrounding areas that offer their expertise with diving lessons for various abilities. If you prefer staying just on top of the water surface, lovers of water sports will find plenty of opportunities for the likes of water skiing, wakeboarding, sailing and jet-skiing in the Plaka beach area and the Agios Nikolaos region. Not a fan of aquatic activities? Keep your feet on solid ground as you admire Crete’s gorgeous landscape with a vigorous hike or a leisurely cycle. From evergreen forests to mesmerising mountain peaks, follow the marked trails or indeed your heart’s desire for an outdoor experience that will give you tingles down your spine. Don’t forget your walking shoes!
If you want to be a part of Cayo’s exclusivity, Olympic Holidays has got you covered. Be one of the first to stay in this gorgeous property and trust us, you’ll be the trendsetter amongst all your friends and family when you return…