Athens & Islands
Multi-centre
From £4,234pp
Sat 9 May · 7 nightsLondon Heathrow2 adults, 1 child · 1 room
Engage collection
Crete
Caramel, A Grecotel Resort to Live
Our rating
TripadvisorBased on 6,874 reviews
A retro-chic retreat on Crete’s sun-soaked north coast
Plucked from the pages of a glossy magazine but with the relaxed feel of a family holiday home, Caramel, A Grecotel Resort to Live caters to everyone from honeymooning couples to families. The location helps, of course: a soft, sandy beach and sparkling sea right on the doorstep, with simple red-tiled buildings melting into leafy gardens. Inside, it’s a different story; enter through the glass main doors flanked by massive urns and neon-pink bougainvillaea and you’ll find yourself in a gleamingly white lobby complete with emerald velvet sofas. The décor throughout is a wonderfully eclectic blend of antique and contemporary, but it’s not just about the striking visuals here. You can be as laid back or energetic as you choose thanks to the impressive mix of activities on offer, from morning yoga to mountain biking trips. We particularly love the excursion to Grecotel’s own 40-hectare farm, which serves organic produce from its authentic Greek taverna and uses centuries-old farming techniques in a hilly, olive grove-dotted setting that’s quintessential Crete.
Looking like something from the pages of a glossy magazine, but with the relaxed feel of a family holiday home, Grecotel Caramel Boutique Resort will appeal to everyone from honeymooning couples to families of all shapes and sizes. The location helps, of course: who wouldn’t be charmed by the sight of the soft, sandy beach and sparkling sea right on the doorstep. Outside, the simple red-tiled buildings seem to melt into the leafy gardens, but inside is a different story. Past the glass main doors flanked by massive urns and pots of neon-pink bougainvillaea, you find yourself in a gleamingly white lobby complete with retro emerald green velvet sofas, and the decor throughout is a wonderfully eclectic blend of antique and contemporary.
The visual appeal of the place aside, it’s the sheer number of thoughtful touches that will make any stay here such a delight. In thoroughly modern fashion, there’s a 24-hour WhatsApp concierge and a guest portal to make planning a cinch. The beach has changing rooms and showers so you can go straight from there to wherever; the fabulously equipped fitness room has massive windows so you can enjoy the scenery while you work out; and the spa has an open-air gazebo where the massages come with refreshing sea breezes. You can be as laid back or energetic as you choose thanks to the impressive mix of activities on offer, from morning yoga and Pilates sessions to full-day mountain-biking trips organised through a nearby centre. We particularly love the fascinating excursion to Grecotel’s own 40-hectare farm, worked organically in the traditional way: the food in its taverna is authentic and delicious.
A beachfront hideaway with a dash of Cretan flair, Caramel, A Grecotel Resort to Live has everything you need for a truly pampering holiday.
Best for:
BoutiqueBeachVillas
Avg flight time7 hrs
Avg transfer timeApprox. 1 hour's transfer from Heraklion and Chania airports
A retro-chic retreat on Crete’s sun-soaked north coast
Why our experts like it
We've done the exploring, asked the locals, made the mistakes, and found the gems... so you don't have to start from scratch! These are the bits we think you'll love the most. Think of it as travel advice from a friend who just got back and can't wait to tell you everything.
If you love French cuisine, look no further than La Belle Vie
An incredible way to kick off your Maldives holiday
“There's something pretty special about travelling by seaplane. The view from the sky is extraordinary - tiny specs of island and shades of blue that barely look real.”
Jeremy FisherKuoni Travel Expert
The iconic, mile-long sandbank
Perfect for isolated sunbathing, dramatic photoshoots, and watching breathtaking Maldivian sunsets.
Snorkelling and diving isn't the only way to catch sight of the underwater world
“If snorkelling and diving isn't for you, it's possible to catch a glimpse of the reef from a glass-bottomed boat instead.”
Sarah ShepherdKuoni Marketing Team
Kids club at Niva Kuramathi Maldives
Supervised activities through the day, so younger guests get their own adventure while you get a quiet hour by the water.
A retro-chic retreat on Crete’s sun-soaked north coast
We book this hotel the way you want it
This Maldives hotel is perfect on its own, but add Sri Lanka, Dubai or the Seychelles and it becomes something even better. Discover our multi-centre holidays and make paradise last longer.
Rooms available at Caramel, A Grecotel Resort to Live
Rooms and suites
Every room type we can book, with what is included in each.
Bungalow Sea View
Surrounded by greenery and with stunning views of the Mediterranean. • air-conditioning • walk-in shower • television • Wi-Fi • terrace and balcony • minibar • Nespresso machine • 28m²
Caramel Junior Suite
Looking out over the garden or pool, with a comfortable sitting area and a sunny terrace. • air-conditioning • walk-in shower • television • Wi-Fi • balcony • minibar • Nespresso machine • 40m²
Junior Suite Private Garden
On the ground floor, with a private garden, only a few steps from the swimming pool. • air-conditioning • walk-in shower • extra single bed • television • Wi-Fi • terrace • private garden • minibar • Nespresso machine • 40m²
Junior Suite Sea View
Good-sized space with a generous balcony overlooking the sea. • air-conditioning • walk-in shower • television • Wi-Fi • balcony • minibar • Nespresso machine • 35m²
Family Suite Main House (Deluxe Family Suite from April 2026)
With two sleeping areas divided by sliding doors: a large master bedroom and a living space containing two sofabeds. Some also have two shower rooms. • air-conditioning • walk-in shower • two single sofabeds • television • Wi-Fi • balcony • minibar • Nespresso machine • 50m²
Open Plan Bungalow Suite
In the lush garden, offering plenty of space for a couple with one child. There’s a large terrace or courtyard. • air-conditioning • walk-in shower • extra single sofabed • television • Wi-Fi • terrace • minibar • Nespresso machine • 50m²
Deluxe Bungalow Suite
Generously proportioned two-room accommodation, with a separate lounge that doubles as a sleeping area. • air-conditioning • walk-in shower • two single sofabeds • television • Wi-Fi • terrace • minibar • Nespresso machine • 55m²
Open Plan Bungalow Suite with Private Outdoor Hydromassage Bathtub
All the facilities of a regular Open Plan Bungalow Suite but with a whirlpool bath on a separate terrace. • air-conditioning • walk-in shower • outdoor hydromassage bath • extra single sofabed • television • Wi-Fi • terrace • minibar • Nespresso machine • 50m²
Luxury Bungalow Suite with Private Outdoor Hydromassage Bathtub
With two rooms - a master bedroom and a living area with two single sofabeds - and an outdoor whirlpool bath. • air-conditioning • walk-in shower • outdoor hydromassage bath • two single sofabeds • television • Wi-Fi • terrace • minibar • Nespresso machine • 55m²
Caramel Maisonette
Split-level open-plan accommodation for two adults and one child, featuring a wooden staircase leading from the living room to the sleeping area. • air-conditioning • walk-in shower • extra single sofabed • television • Wi-Fi • terrace • minibar • Nespresso machine • 45m²
Caramel Suite
A spacious bolthole for two with a particularly expansive terrace overlooking the sea, equipped with a private whirlpool bath. • air-conditioning • walk-in shower • outdoor hydromassage bath • television • Wi-Fi • terrace • minibar • Nespresso machine • 50m²
Maisonette 1st Row Sea View
On the beachfront, with ocean views from the terrace and sunbeds just outside. • air-conditioning • walk-in shower • extra single sofabed • television • Wi-Fi • terrace • minibar • Nespresso machine • 45m²
Two Bedroom Caramel Villa
Spacious split-level villas with garden views. Some have a private outdoor hydromassage bath. • air-conditioning • walk-in showers • access to private beach gazebo • one single sofabed • television • Wi-Fi • terrace • minibar • Nespresso machine • 80m²
Two Bedroom Beach Villa Seafront
On two levels, right on a stretch of sandy beach with sweeping sea views. • air-conditioning • walk-in showers • private beach gazebo • one single sofabed • television • Wi-Fi • terrace • minibar • Nespresso machine • 65-85m²
Two Bedroom Caramel Villa Private Pool
Sleeping four adults and one child (on sofabed in the living area), this ground-floor accommodation comes with a private pool and access to a private beach gazebo. • air-conditioning • walk-in showers • private swimming pool • access to private beach gazebo • two single sofabeds • television • Wi-Fi • terrace • minibar • Nespresso machine • 65m²
Three Bedroom Villa Private Pool and Garden
Just a few steps from the beach: ideal for families or a group of friends. The private garden is a haven of calm, and there’s an open-air hydromassage bath on the roof terrace. • air-conditioning • walk-in showers • outdoor hydromassage bath • private beach gazebo • two single sofabeds • television • Wi-Fi • terrace • minibar • Nespresso machine • 125m²
Three Bedroom Luxury Villa with Direct Access to the Beach (Three Bedroom Beach Villa Seafront from April 2026)
Wander from your terrace straight on to the beach and your private seaside gazebo. • air-conditioning • walk-in showers • private beach gazebo • two single sofabeds • television • Wi-Fi • three terraces • minibar • Nespresso machine • 105m²
Three Bedroom Maisonette Beach Villa
Overlooking the Cretan sea, there’s plenty of space both indoors and out. • air-conditioning • walk-in showers • private beach gazebo • two single sofabeds • television • Wi-Fi • terrace • minibar • Nespresso machine • 110m²
Four Bedroom Beach Villa Seafront
Multigenerational family bubbles will appreciate the space and facilities, which include an outdoor hydromassage bath and several large verandahs. Sleeps 8 adults + 1 child • air-conditioning • walk-in showers • outdoor hydromassage bath • private beach gazebo • two single sofabeds • television • Wi-Fi • terrace • minibar • Nespresso machine • 165m²
Food & drink
The culinary scene is excellent here, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients – from lavish breakfast spreads at the main restaurant to gourmet à la carte dinners and casual poolside lunches. If you choose Half Board – The Dine Club, you’ll also get credit to use at Grecotel’s sister restaurants, as well as a complimentary dinner at the renowned Agreco Farm, where the Taverna serves a memorable, farm-to-table feast.
Grecotel prides itself on its breakfasts, and the sumptuous buffet in Caramel The Restaurant definitely reflects that. Start the day with anything from a made-to-order dish of farmhouse-style Cretan scrambled eggs to fresh-from-the-oven bread with local honey. Return in the evening for more hot and cold buffet dishes, featuring flavours from the Mediterranean and further afield, made from seasonal ingredients. The new Gourmet À La Carte Restaurant is a dressier al fresco affair near the illuminated confetti pool, perfect for a grown-up dinner of seafood dishes such as Greek lobster spaghetti. At the Confetti Pool Lounges, the all-day brasserie menu is perfectly pitched for hot-weather grazing, with plenty of salads and other light bites along with smoothies and fresh juices.
The Panther Lobby Bar sprawls across several poolside terraces and lounges. Find the perfect spot to savour a cup of coffee or a local herb tea during daylight hours, or linger here later on with a cocktail to soak up the sea-and-sunset views and some restful live music.
We love the Gourmet À La Carte Restaurant for its ultra-romantic setting – think twinkling lights reflecting on the mirror pool while you tuck into fresh lobster and other seafood.
Caramel The Restaurant — Grecotel prides itself on its breakfasts, and the sumptuous buffet here doesn’t disappoint. Start the day with anything from farmhouse-style Cretan scrambled eggs and fresh-from-the-oven bread with local honey, then return in the evening for dishes inspired by the Mediterranean and beyond, made from seasonal ingredients. Gourmet À La Carte Restaurant — Head here for al fresco Mediterranean dining by the illuminated confetti pool, with a wide range of seafood dishes and postcard-worthy views – don’t miss the Greek lobster spaghetti. Confetti Pool Lounges — This all-day, poolside brasserie is perfectly pitched for hot-weather grazing, with plenty of salads and other light bites alongside smoothies and fresh juices. Panther Lobby Bar — This laid-back bar sprawls across several poolside terraces and lounges. Savour a cup of coffee or local herbal tea during daylight hours, or linger with a cocktail later on to soak up the sea-and-sunset views with soothing live music.
A retro-chic retreat on Crete’s sun-soaked north coast
Things to do nearby
Curated experiences to help you do more, see more, or simply switch off while you're here.
Crete
Crete Snorkelling Experience
The Chania area is blessed with some of the island’s best beaches, and those warm, crystal-clear turquoise waters make this an excellent destination for a relaxed snorkelling adventure as well. Your day begins at a dive centre where you’ll be kitted out with a shortie wetsuit, fins, mask and snorkel and given some handy tips on making the most of your time in the water. Then it’s time to hop on a speedy RHIB – as in rigid-hull inflatable boat – for a 20-or-so-minute zip across the waves to your first guided snorkelling session. With superb visibility, you have a good chance of seeing starfish, sponges, crabs and an array of fish, and maybe even glimpsing an octopus. After a reviving snack, you’ll be off to the second, equally breathtaking snorkelling site for the day, where you’ll have another opportunity to discover the marine life of the Mediterranean. • Duration: half day • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience Good to know — You’ll need to be able to swim, but otherwise the trip is suitable for all.
Crete
The Landscapes Of Rethymno
If you love Rethymno’s small-town charm, you’ll be just as enchanted with the unspoiled countryside of its hinterland. It’s an area packed with fabulous scenery, glorious villages and other impressive sights that are just made for visiting in your own chauffeur-driven Land Rover. Among the many quaint villages that you’ll see en route is Giannoudi with its appealing Venetian-style architecture; Spili, whose famous lion-head fountain is fed by ice-cold water from mountain springs, and pretty Armeni, surrounded by olive, orange and avocado groves. Then there are the dramatic landscapes, from the wonderfully wild gorge of Prasses – home to rare vultures – and the equally ravishing gorge of Kourtaliotis to the picture-perfect beach at Preveli. Naturally, the day also includes a pause at a traditional tavern where you’ll have a chance to catch your breath over a lunch of Cretan cuisine at its most authentic and a glass or two of the local wine. • Duration: full day • Time: 9am to 5pm • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience
Crete
Discover Knossos
• Duration: Half day • Private experience Good to know — Specialist guides are available at Knossos and Heraklion Archaeological Museum for an extra fee.
Crete
Hike the Samaria Gorge
Pull on your hiking boots and embrace a day of adventure as we set out to the scenic Samaria Gorge. Wearing the crown for the longest gorge in Europe, you’ll journey 18 km south before winding up at the mouth of Crete's sparkling south coast. For a soul-soothing end to the day, take to the glistening waters of Agia Roumel for a refreshing paddle before regrouping and relishing a restful coach ride back to Corfu. • Duration: Full day • Departs: Tuesday • Operates: 15th May - October • Group experience
Crete
Historical Crete
The main draw is its ancient frescoes, only rediscovered recently during renovation work, though the cheese pies with honey from a nearby coffee shop – a local speciality – are also well worth investigating. Your next stop was one of western Crete’s most important cities during Roman times, before being destroyed in 828 AD. You’ll find traces of ancient Lappa in what is now the village of Argyroupolis, where you can enjoy lunch in one of the local taverns. On the return to Chania, there’s one last pause: the stunning Lake Kournas, in a beautiful setting backed by hills. • Duration: full day • Time: 9am to 4.30pm • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience Good to know — Lunch and drinks are not included.
Crete
Sail to Dia in a Day
Soak up an endless series of cinematic panoramas on this day-long trip to Dia. An uninhabited isle flanked by the rolling waves of the azure Mediterranean, clamber over 5km of pearl-grey rockery before hunkering down to soak up those majestic golden hour vistas. For the history buffs, an insight into the mythology of Dia is bound to score a big thumbs-up, while a suite of sailing trips welcome you to cruise the cobalt deep at your own leisurely pace. • Duration: Full day • Daily departures • Operates: April - October • Group experience
Crete
Cave of Zeus: Land Rover Discovery
Witness the wonders of the Cave of Zeus for yourself on this exclusive Land Rover Discovery tour. Placing you right at the heart of the action, our adventure begins in the cosmopolitan city of Agios Nikolaos before journeying west to historical Krista. A guaranteed hit with the history buffs, this traditional Greek village plays home to a lattice of religious monuments, archaeological sites and glistening gorges. You’ll wander a rugged path canopied by verdant Pine forestry before arriving at Katharo Plateau and journeying onwards to the impressive Lassithi Plateau, The Dikteon Cave and beyond. • Duration: Half day • Private experience
Crete
The Black Rose Pirate Boat Trip
Hop aboard The Black Rose and join us as we cruise from the sapphire shores of San George’s Bay, stopping off at lively Malia and family oriented Salis on the way. A handful of swim stops invite you to plunge into the invigorating ocean depths, and if you’re keen to uncover what lies beneath the shore, you can pop on your snorkelling gear and explore. A delicious meal on deck will keep your flavour cravings at bay and for the kids, the fun never ends with on-deck face painting, music and dancing. • Duration: Half day • Daily departures • Operates year-round • Group experience Good to know Lunch is included, as well as soft drinks and water. Please bring swimwear and snorkelling equipment if you wish to go in the sea.
Crete
Santorini by Seajet from Crete
If you love being out on the water, there’s an optional boat trip to Caldera. Or, if you want to witness the island’s fire-forged core up close, carve extra time to visit the Volcano of Santorini. With the day’s discoveries behind us, we’ll sail back to Heraklion and Rethymno, taking in sweeping vistas across the Aegean and Cretan seas. Good to know Ferry return tickets and bus transfers are included in the cost of your ticket.
Crete
Mirabello Day Cruise
• Duration: Full day • Daily departures • Operates: 15th May - 15th October • Group experience
Crete
Sunset Sail to Mirabello
Storied by a tapestry of jaw-dropping vistas, be sure to keep your eyes peeled if you want to catch a glimpse at the ancient venetian fortress. Kolokitha will instantly win you over with its untouched beauty, while the opportunity to swim, snorkel and paddle will keep you endlessly energised and entertained. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, hop back on-board and indulge in a flavour-filled gourmet Grecian feast mounted by a mesmerising ocean panorama. • Duration: Half day • Daily departures • Operates: 16th May - 15th October • Group experience
A retro-chic retreat on Crete’s sun-soaked north coast
There is more than one way to do this trip
A match made in paradise
This hotel is perfect on its own, but add a second destination and it becomes something even better. Discover our multi-centre holidays and make paradise last longer.
What’s in the area
In the area
Where the hotel sits, and what is within reach of it.
A retro-chic retreat on Crete’s sun-soaked north coast
Trip ideas
You've come this far - and the world has more to offer. Why not pair Niva Kuramathi with another island, add a stopover in Dubai on the way for city lights and desert skies, or extend to Sri Lanka for tea, temples and safari? Below you'll find our recommendations for maximising your time away...
When to visit
When to visit
Temperature and rainfall through the year.
| Measurement | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sept | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average temp | 12°C | 12°C | 14°C | 17°C | 20°C | 24°C | 26°C | 26°C | 24°C | 20°C | 17°C | 13°C |
| Average rainfall | 110mm | 60mm | 75mm | 125mm | 220mm | 175mm | 150mm | 175mm | 200mm | 195mm | 210mm | 215mm |
| Average price | £4,746pp | £4,992pp | £4,149pp | £4,222pp | £4,827pp | £4,835pp | £5,104pp | £5,176pp | £5,176pp | £5,129pp | £3,958pp | £3,958pp |
A retro-chic retreat on Crete’s sun-soaked north coast
Current offers
Savings worth having on the departures we think are worth taking. Every offer below applies to this hotel — check each one for the dates and conditions that come with it.
Save up to £300pp
Based on selected departures in September 2026
Save up to 25% when you book by 6th July
Based on selected departures in September 2026
Save up to 35% + complimentary meal upgrade
Based on 20th July 2026 departure
Free half-board upgrade
Based on selected departures in October 2026
Stay 7 nights, pay for 6
Based on selected departures in November 2026
Save up to £200pp on honeymoons
Based on selected departures in January 2027
Complimentary spa treatment for two
Based on stays of 7 nights or more
Free kids' places
Based on selected departures in August 2026
Build your holiday
Choose your dates, your room and where you fly from. Prices update as you go.
Your holiday so far
Flying from
Can't see your airport of choice?Enquire now
Prices are per person, based on two sharing. Your Personal Travel Expert confirms the final price.
May 2026
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June 2026
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You can upgrade your transfers and flight class when booking (subject to availability).
Local taxes & fees apply upon arrival.
Who's going?
2 adults, 1 child
Duration
7 nights + travel
Departure airport & date
Sat 9 May 2026London Gatwick
Board basis
Speak to an expert | Available until 8pm0800 298 5034
Great offers on Niva Kuramathi Maldives
Escape to Niva Kuramathi and enjoy exclusive savings on your Maldives getaway.
View offersHave you considered a multi-centre?
Maldives pairs really well with other destinations, from Dubai to Sri Lanka.
View multi-centresGood to know
- Includes flights, baggage, and private transfers to and from your hotel
- Total flight time ~ 7 hrs
- Total transfer time ~ 2 hrs
- Overnight in Malé may apply (subject to flights & transfers)
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to visit the Maldives?
British passport holders are issued a free 30-day visitor visa on arrival. You'll need a passport valid for the duration of your stay, a confirmed onward ticket and proof of your accommodation booking.
When is the best time to visit the Maldives?
November to April is the dry season, with the most reliable sunshine and calmest seas. May to October brings shorter rain showers, lower prices and better surf.
What currency is used in the Maldives, and do I need cash?
The local currency is the Maldivian rufiyaa, but resorts price and bill in US dollars and take major cards. Most guests never need cash — a small amount is handy for tipping.
Is the Maldives good for honeymoons outside peak season?
Yes. Off-peak brings noticeably lower rates and quieter islands, and rain tends to come in short bursts rather than all day. Many resorts add honeymoon extras during these months.
What activities are there for older kids and teens in the Maldives?
Most resorts run watersports centres with windsurfing, kayaking and paddleboarding, plus PADI dive courses from around age ten. Snorkelling safaris, sandbank trips and night fishing all suit older children.
Niva Kuramathi Maldives reviews
Guest reviews
Tripadvisor reviews will appear here once the feed is connected.
A retro-chic retreat on Crete’s sun-soaked north coast
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