A Minoan-inspired luxury resort on the northern coast east of Heraklion, Amirandes is built around a vast lagoon-style pool and a private sandy beach. The resort's design references Minoan architecture and frescoes throughout. Suites are palatial, with some featuring their own pool on private terraces. Exceptional dining from acclaimed chef Lefteris Lazarou.
Amirandes Grecotel Exclusive Resort occupies a sweeping stretch of the northern Cretan coastline at Kato Gouves in Heraklion prefecture, approximately 25 kilometres east of Heraklion city and within convenient reach of the Palace of Knossos (18 km) and the resort town of Hersonissos (5 km). Its central position on Crete's northern arc makes it one of the more strategically located luxury resorts on the island, equidistant between the capital's museums and the natural beauty of the east.
The resort's design draws extensively from Minoan mythology and architecture. Public spaces, facades, and interiors reference the frescoes, column proportions, and colour palette associated with the Minoan palace at Knossos, creating an environment that frames a Crete holiday within the island's ancient cultural identity. A vast lagoon-style swimming pool anchors the resort grounds and extends toward a private sandy beach of approximately 200 metres. Suites occupy low-rise buildings arranged around the lagoon, with the most exclusive Royal Lagoon Suites and presidential villas featuring private pools directly on their terraces.
Dining at Amirandes is exceptional by Crete's already high resort standards. The MINOTAUR restaurant is the signature venue, its walls adorned with original ceramics attributed to Pablo Picasso, and its menu centred on refined Cretan and Greek cuisine. Nine restaurants and bars in total cover beachside casual dining, Mediterranean and Asian fusion options, and formal evening meals. Breakfast is elaborate and includes local products — Cretan honey, thyme-infused olive oil, fresh dakos, and regional cheeses. The Elixir Alchemy Spa provides a comprehensive wellness programme using local botanicals and international techniques.
The resort offers genuine family infrastructure: the Grecoland Kids Club provides supervised activities, educational programmes tied to Minoan heritage, and outdoor adventures across the resort's spacious grounds. An all-inclusive option is available and represents strong value given the nine dining venues. Concierge services include direct access to guided tours of Knossos, archaeological day trips across eastern Crete, and chartered boat excursions to Spinalonga Island.
Amenities
- Private sandy beach
- Lagoon pool complex
- Spa
- Multiple restaurants
- Tennis
- Watersports
- Kids club
- Minoan-themed design
Location
Kato Gouves, Heraklion 70014
35.3213, 25.3068 View on map
Highlights
- Minoan-inspired architecture and frescoes throughout, with a lagoon-style pool anchoring the resort grounds
- MINOTAUR restaurant adorned with original Picasso ceramics, serving refined Cretan and Greek cuisine
- Private sandy beach of approximately 200 metres on Crete's northern coast, east of Heraklion
- Royal Lagoon Suites and presidential villas with private pools directly above the resort lagoon
- Grecoland Kids Club offering Minoan-themed educational activities and outdoor adventures for children
Tips for visiting
- The Palace of Knossos is 18 km west — arrange an early morning visit through the concierge to beat the crowds.
- Book the MINOTAUR restaurant in advance; it is the most sought-after dining table on the property.
- Lagoon-facing suites offer easy pool access; beach-facing villas are better for those prioritising sea views.
- The all-inclusive option represents good value given the breadth of on-site restaurants and unlimited beverages.
- Hersonissos town is 5 km away for local tavernas and nightlife if guests want variety beyond the resort.
Accessibility
The resort's flat lagoon-side layout is comparatively accessible for a large Cretan resort. Some areas near the beach have soft sand surfaces that may present challenges. Guests with specific mobility requirements should contact the property to confirm room configurations and accessible route availability.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Amirandes family-friendly?
Yes, the resort has strong family infrastructure including the Grecoland Kids Club with supervised activities, Minoan-themed educational programmes, and outdoor adventure options for children of various ages. Family suite and villa configurations are available.
What is the resort's connection to the Palace of Knossos?
The resort's design directly references Minoan architecture from Knossos, and the Palace itself is 18 km away. The concierge arranges guided tours to the archaeological site, which is among the most visited in Greece.
Are all-inclusive packages available?
Yes, Amirandes offers all-inclusive packages covering meals at all restaurants, branded beverages, and daily-replenished minibars. These are especially valuable given the resort's nine dining venues.
How far is the resort from Heraklion airport?
The resort is approximately 25 kilometres east of Heraklion International Airport, about a 25-minute drive by transfer. Taxis and private transfers are readily available from the airport.