Ierapetra, located on the southern coast of Crete, offers a unique blend of picturesque charm and historical significance. Known as the southernmost town in Europe, Ierapetra boasts a mild climate and is renowned for its vibrant agricultural sector, particularly its lush greenhouses that produce tomatoes and cucumbers year-round.
The town itself is rich with history, featuring remnants from various eras that speak to its longstanding importance as a maritime hub. Visitors can explore the remnants of the ancient city walls and the Venetian fortress of Kales, which dates back to the 13th century and offers stunning views over the Libyan Sea. The town’s Archaeological Museum, although small, contains an impressive collection of artifacts that chronicle the area’s past from Minoan to Roman times.
Ierapetra’s coastline is a major draw, with its long, sun-kissed beaches stretching along the Libyan Sea. The beachfront is lined with cafes, tavernas, and bars, creating a lively atmosphere both day and night. For those seeking tranquility, the surrounding area offers secluded coves and pristine beaches, like Agia Fotia and the exotic Chrissi Island, accessible via a short boat ride. Chrissi Island, or “Golden Island,” is famous for its white sandy beaches, cedar forest, and the turquoise waters that surround it.
While the town itself offers a lot to see and do, exploring the broader region of Ierapetra is best done by car due to Crete’s expansive size and the distance between major sites. The town is relatively far from the island’s northern cities and their ports, making car travel the most practical way to navigate the region efficiently. This autonomy allows visitors to explore the diverse landscapes and historical sites at their own pace, from ancient ruins scattered across the countryside to isolated villages and rugged mountain terrain.
Overall, Ierapetra presents a compelling mix of historical depth, cultural vibrancy, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the less trodden paths of Crete. Whether it’s lounging on sun-drenched beaches, delving into the rich tapestry of Cretan history, or enjoying the local cuisine, Ierapetra offers a slice of Crete that is both enriching and relaxing.
Numo Ierapetra Beach Resort, a jewel of the Curio Collection by Hilton, offers a luxurious escape on the southern shores of Crete. Embracing a minimalist design that reflects the raw beauty of the Cretan landscape, this resort harmoniously blends contemporary elegance with traditional Greek elements. Each of the resort’s rooms and bungalows provides a serene retreat with modern amenities and chic décor, many offering stunning views of the Libyan Sea.
Our stay at Numo Ierapetra Beach Resort was marked by the comfort and elegance of our ground-level suite, which seamlessly blended modern design with touches of local charm. The room itself was spacious and meticulously furnished, creating an atmosphere of luxury that was both inviting and stylish. One of the standout features of our suite was the small patio, offering a direct view of the resort’s beautifully preserved chapel set against the lush, well-manicured grounds.
The interior boasted a tasteful décor that resonated with the natural beauty of Crete, featuring earthy tones and high-quality finishes. Comfort was paramount, with plush seating and an exceptionally comfortable bed ensuring a restful sleep. Additionally, the room included thoughtful amenities that enhanced our stay, like a well-equipped minibar and a coffee machine, allowing for peaceful mornings sipping coffee on the patio while soaking in the serene views.
The grounds of Numo Ierapetra Beach Resort are a masterclass in meticulous design and maintenance, sprawling across a large, beautifully landscaped area that ensures every guest experiences both privacy and grandeur. The resort boasts a private beachfront that offers uninterrupted views and access to the sparkling Mediterranean, complemented by two swimming pools. The main pool, located near the ocean, allows guests to enjoy the sea breeze as they swim, while the other provides a tranquil retreat.
For entertainment, the resort features an outdoor cinema that hosts evening screenings under the stars, a well-equipped gym for fitness enthusiasts, and a spa that offers a range of relaxing treatments. Dining options include a main buffet restaurant, which serves a variety of international cuisines and is our go-to spot for both breakfast and dinner, enhancing our stay with delicious and diverse offerings. Additionally, there is a fine dining restaurant for more intimate and upscale dining experiences.
The pool area is enhanced by comprehensive poolside service and a bar that stays open late, ensuring that refreshments are always at hand. This combination of luxurious amenities and attentive service ensures that every moment at Numo Ierapetra Beach Resort is enjoyable and memorable, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a blend of relaxation and activity.
At Numo Ierapetra Beach Resort, the dining experience was a delightful surprise, particularly the buffet meals included in our stay. Despite our initial skepticism about resort buffets, the quality of food offered for both breakfast and dinner was exceptional, easily ranking as one of the best hotel buffets we’ve encountered. The variety and freshness of the food available, which also extends to lunch, were impressive. Although we didn’t try the fine dining restaurant, it added an option for those seeking a more gourmet dining experience. The bar’s offerings were excellent, serving a range of fantastic drinks, and the poolside service was prompt and efficient, ensuring our needs were met without ever having to leave our loungers. The comprehensive and high-quality food and drink options at Numo Ierapetra significantly enhanced our stay, making each meal a pleasure.
