The Greek air, that Cretan sun and awesome Aegean Sea – welcome to another Destination MAXIM as we explore the opulence that is the Sea Side Resort & Spa…
After a two year hiatus, Destination MAXIM is back! Last month we returned to the epic Acro Suites in Crete, Greece, and shortly after we took a stroll down to road to the amazing Sea Side Resort & Spa, where we turned up the fun factor!
Two groups of stunning models joined us to bathe in the Cretan sunshine across various pools in this sprawling resort over Mononafis Bay. Besides basking in the opulence and enjoying the all-you-can-eat (and drink!) bars and buffet, our first group went on a thrilling quad bike adventure, while our second stepped into nature for a spot of mountain horse-riding.
Sea Side Resort & Spa is among the best that Crete has to offer – unique location, consistent high standards, true hospitality, luxurious amenities and diverse dining options that will make your stay a unique holiday experience. Words cannot describe the incredible experience that Sea Side Resort & Spa provides. The service is unparalleled, the views expansive, the weather perfect and the food… just, wow!
Every day we all looked forward to what the buffet would deliver and we were never disappointed with both the quality of cuisine and vast variety. And if we were after something a little more romantic and lavish, the finer dining experiences offered by UMI and Kullinarium were ready to deliver something extra special. UMI offers a harmonious synthesis between the culinary traditions of Peru and Japan, while at Kullinarium only natural products are used, supported by the “we do local” community of the island.
We are already planning our return trip! Thank you again for your incredible hospitality, Sea Side. Sea you soon!
When you’re searching for a romantic couples’ getaway in the Greek Islands, an adults-only resort is a no brainer. The island of Crete is a hot spot for singles and couples looking to escape the grind, many of whom can be found chilling out in the area’s countless wellness resorts and spas. The handsome Sea Side Resort & Spa is a fantastic option for a trip to Crete. Like other resorts in the area, Sea Side is proudly adults-only and recently hosted our gorgeous cast of ladies for Destination MAXIM 2022.
Located at the top of a hill in Mononaftis bay, the property is spread generously along a quiet area of Agia Pelagia. One a small fishing village, Agia is now the centre of Crete’s wellness resorts thanks to its sweeping ocean views. It’s also highly convenient for incoming travellers landing at the island’s main airport while still being removed from the chaos of Heraklion. The Seaside Crete consists of 248 rooms and suites, each offering breathtaking views of the beautiful coastline below. There’s a variety of room options available, from super romantic suites that make for a fantastic honeymoon to larger suites ideal for groups and bucks parties.
Interiors at the Sea Side are suitably chic and typically Greek, with lots of bright white soft linens and natural finishes sourced from local materials. What’s more, the Resort will empower you to fully dive into the Crete lifestyle. Upon check-in, guests at the Sea Side can look forward to an all-encompassing wellness experience, including a Spa centre offering massages, as well as a sauna, steam room, face treatments, manicure & pedicure and an indoor hydropool.
Wellness is a major preoccupation on the island of Crete and starts with the Cretan diet. Eating like a local means eating what’s grown on the island, so you’ll be looking forward to a lot of fresh fruit, vegetables, whole grains and pulses. When you want to try something more edgy, the resort’s Umi Restaurant offers a fascinating fusion menu blending Japanese and Peruvian cuisine. Spend a week reclining on soft, whitewashed sunbeds while noshing on something from the resort’s selection of bars and restaurants.
The true show stopper of this property is its various pools onsite, ideal for a dip while taking in the sites of the spectacular Mononaftis bay. Yes, the top pool of the Sea Side is a mandatory stop for all your social media posts, but the real action is going on below. Head to the downstairs pool to take in all the action, with a full staff behind the bar pouring Raki (a local spirit) and serving piles of fresh beach towels by the dozen. If you’re extra adventurous, wander down to
the actual beach and stake a claim on a couple sun loungers.
Local legend says Mononaftis, which means single sailor, got its name when a ship sank in the area centuries ago and one lucky sailor survived. Fast forward to today and that same bay plays host to spray tanned euros on their summer vacations and an international money set cruising around on rent-a-boats. The Sea Side is an oasis in this sense, a haven for travellers looking to rediscover themselves (or their partner) in a discreetly luxurious setting. The sands and sea of Agia Pelagia are said to be healing, and this resort frames the local environment while adding in a few creature comforts. ■
For more information on Sea Side Resort & Spa go to www.seaside-hotel.gr
Text by REILLY SULLIVAN
Tour Leader Paris Raine
Photography By Corrina Louise
Cinematography By Alex Scapens
Hair & Make-Up By Evy Papadopoulos
Styling By Jac Merlino
Creative Agency 19zero3
Location Sea Side Resort & Spa, Crete
