Karma Minoan Revisited April 2024 at the start of the season.
We're back after 6 years and not much has changed. It's still as fabulous as ever.
This time we arrived on the overnight ferry from Athens and hired a car in Heraklion. The 1 hour drive to Karma Minoan in daylight is very pleasant, but in the dark it can be a bit daunting. Parking at Karma Minoan is limited and some of the roads are narrow, so we plumped for a small car. Alternatively, you can catch the hotel hopper bus from the airport if you pre-book online, and there's a local bus service to Agios Nikolaos once you're here. Car hire is available from reception.
The resort has the traditional blue and white paintwork and faces east, with stunning views over the Gulf of Mirabello.
The rooms are simple and very nice, some with a balcony and chairs and some with a shared terrace and loungers. The pool and bar/restaurant area is the place to meet and chat. Did I mention the stunning view?
There is a games area with table tennis and a well equipped rooftop gym. There are also lots of steps, as it's built into the cliff face, with rooms on 4 levels. There is no lift. And the view from the top !!!!!!! Every room has a sea view.
Breakfast was included and very good. The lunch and dinner menu feature traditional Cretan food beautifully prepared by the very good local chefs. We ate here on the terrace most evenings, after enjoying happy hour and getting to know the other guests. The staff are mainly local and eager to share their fabulous island and cuisine to make your stay memorable and enjoyable.
Out and about, the town of Agios Nikolaos is about 5km away by car, bus or taxi. There are a few beaches and restaurants within walking distance. Further afield you'll find some lovely fish restaurants which will cook your chosen catch of the day.
Reception can recommend places to visit and tours to take, but the best excursions for us were the gentle drives along the coast roads and then turning up into the mountains for the views, mountain scenery, olive groves, sheep and the remote villages with tavernas and locals enjoying a drink.
