Where are you located?

Amirandes is located in Crete, Greece, just 18 km (approx. 11 miles) and a 16-minute drive from Heraklion International Airport (HER) “Nikos Kazantzakis”. The airport operates domestic flights, mainly via Athens (ATH) and Thessaloniki (SKG), both of which offer extensive international connections. Heraklion is also accessible from the Heraklion Port, situated about 23 km (14 mi) away and a ~ 23-minute drive, serving local and regional ferry routes.

 

How far is the main town?

Amirandes is located just 23 km (14 miles) from Heraklion town, approximately a 25-minute drive. Crete offers a unique blend of stunning beaches, ancient archaeological sites, vibrant local culture, and exceptional cuisine.

For those who wish to explore other major towns, Rethymno Town is approximately 97 km (60 miles) away, with a drive time of around 1 hour and 20 minutes. Chania Town is located 155 km away (96 miles) from the resort, with an estimated drive time of 2 hours and 15 minutes.

 

What is the weather like?

Crete enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Spring (April–June) offers pleasant temperatures from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), ideal for outdoor activities. Summer (July–September) is warm, with temperatures between 25°C and 35°C (77°F to 95°F), perfect for beach days. Autumn (October–November) features mild weather ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), great for sightseeing, while winters (December–March) are mild, averaging 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) with some rainfall.

 

What Time Zone is followed?

Greece time is +2 GMT

How do I get there?

Amirandes is just 18 km (~11 miles), or a ~16 minute drive from Heraklion International Airport (HER). Taxis are available 24/7 just outside the terminal, and the journey to Amirandes typically takes around 15–20 minutes. Additionally, several car rental agencies operate on-site, offering flexibility for visitors who prefer to drive themselves.

 

Are private transfers available?

Private luxury transfers to and from the hotel are available upon request and at an additional charge. A selection of premium vehicles is offered to suit your preferences. To arrange a transfer, please contact our Reservations Department at [email protected], and our team will be pleased to assist you.

 

Are there any complimentary shuttle services available to/from the hotel?

The hotel does not offer a complimentary shuttle. However, we can arrange private or shared transfers or book a taxi for an additional fee. For assistance, contact our reservations team via e-mail at [email protected].

 

What modes of transportation are available at the destination?

Taxi service is available around the clock at the Amirandes reception, with a typical waiting time of 10-30 minutes. Rental cars and motorbikes can be arranged with assistance from the resort’s concierge. E-bikes are also available for guests who prefer an eco-friendlier way to explore the area.

To visit Heraklion city center, local public bus operated by KTEL Heraklion–Lasithi departs from Bus Stop No. 15, located approximately an 11-minute walk from the resort along the main road in Gouves. Buses run approximately every 25-30 minutes during the peak season (with reduced frequency in the off-season), and the journey to Heraklion takes around 20–24 minutes. Tickets typically cost €2–3 per person and can be purchased in cash directly from the bus driver or from nearby mini markets or kiosks along the main road.

What are the check-in and check-out hours?

Check-out: 11 AM
Check-in: 3 PM

 

What documents or items are required at check-in?

Kindly present your ID card or passport and the credit card used to book your reservation.

 

Can I arrange an early check-in or late check-out?

If the room is unoccupied, early check-in or check-out may be possible. However, to guarantee availability for early morning arrivals or late evening departures, booking an extra night is recommended. For late check-out, guests may inquire at reception the day before departure; options and charges vary depending on availability.

 

Can I use the hotel facilities before check-in or after check-out?

All hotel facilities are available to Amirandes guests from the moment the check-in process is completed. Following check-out, guests may request to keep their account open to include additional charges. If the account is settled at check-out, guests may still use the facilities for the remainder of the day, with any additional services paid for directly.

 

Are luggage storage services available?

The hotel provides a dedicated luggage area where we can safely store your bags and personal belongings before check-in or after check-out.

 

Are twin beds available?

Yes, twin beds are available upon request in select room types.

 

What is the size of the extra bed?

All our extra beds are 200 cm (78 inches) in length and 90 cm (35 inches) in width and may accommodate one additional guest, subject to the room’s maximum occupancy policy.

 

Is there an additional charge for a child staying in the room?

Children up to 12 years of age stay free of charge in their parents’ room, applicable to select room types and during specific periods.

 

Does the room include complimentary coffee or tea facilities?

All rooms are equipped with tea and coffee facilities, including a Nespresso machine with two complimentary pods daily, plus daily replenishment of instant coffee and tea. Please inform us if you would like fresh milk for your tea.

 

Is it possible to guarantee a specific room number or location before arrival?

Special requests regarding room number, location, and proximity are noted with care and will be accommodated whenever possible depending on room type and availability. We kindly recommend informing us prior to arrival via e-mail at [email protected].

 

Does the hotel provide an iron and ironing board in the room?

An iron and ironing board is available for our guests and can be delivered to your room for a limited length of time for security reasons. Ironing service is also available at an extra charge.

 

Is there a safe in the room?

All room types offer a safety deposit box.

 

What is included in the Premium All Inclusive Pack?

Exclusively for villa and suite guests, the Premium All Inclusive Pack includes unlimited dining at all à la carte and buffet restaurants for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with the option of in-villa breakfast for added privacy. Afternoon tea with gourmet bites is served at Labyrinth Bar, while beach and poolside service offers snacks, ice creams, juices and soft drinks delivered to your lounger. Premium wines, cocktails and beverages are available throughout the day and with all meals. The package includes 24-hour in-room dining, a daily-restocked minibar and a dedicated concierge for private dinners and personalised experiences.

Beyond dining, villas are prepared to your preferences for a seamless stay. Complimentary padel and tennis sessions with professional instructors, along with VIP airport or port transfers, are also included.

Are all restaurants operational?

Not all restaurants at Amirandes operate throughout the year, as many are seasonal and open from April to October. These include Minotaur, Petrino, Blue Monkey, Xasteria, Amirandes The Restaurant, and Labyrinth.

During the off-season (November to March), Minotaur remains open with limited à la carte breakfast and dinner service, while Labyrinth also operates with reduced hours and a light menu.

The Knossos Patisserie is open year-round, daily from 10:00 to 18:00.

Please note that reservations are required for dinner at most à la carte restaurants. Outdoor venues such as Xasteria are weather-dependent and may be subject to closure.

 

What meal plans are available?

Breakfast Only
Includes a daily breakfast buffet served at the main restaurant.

The Dine Club
The Dine Club offers a flexible and elevated dining experience, including daily breakfast and a choice of either daily free lunch or dinner. It also includes a credit allowance for selected à la carte restaurants across Grecotel Resorts in Crete. For every 7-night stay, indulge in two free à la carte dinners, including the option of one at the famous Agreco Farm. Drinks and beverages are not included.

Comfort All-In Pack
Includes all Dine Club benefits, plus daily buffet-style lunch at the main restaurant or à la carte lunch at Petrino restaurant with a €20 credit per adult and €10 per child (reservation required). Selected snacks are available at the Beach Bar from 16:00–18:00. A selection of beverages marked ‘CP’ on the menu is included throughout the day at all venues (excluding room service and mini bar). For every 7-night stay, enjoy two complimentary 3-course à la carte dinners at select restaurants, including Agreco Farm (reservation required; subject to availability) with a dedicated menu. The Comfort All-In Pack ends at 17:00 on the day of departure.

 

Which Restaurants are participating in the Dine Club Program and Comfort All-In Pack?

• Amirandes: The Restaurant, Petrino, Blue Monkey, Minotaur, Xasteria
• Caramel: Caramel The Restaurant
• Creta Palace: Labyrinth Atrium, Zeus + Amalthia Sky Bar, Barbarossa, Ariadne Restaurant
• LUXME White: Asia White, The White, Tavernaki, Guest Restaurant
• Agreco Farm Taverna

 

What meal plans are available for children?

Children up to 12 years of age enjoy a complimentary lunch buffet at the ‘Tasty Corner’ (12:30–14:00, from mid-June to mid-September), as well as free dining at the main restaurant from a dedicated kids’ menu. Guests aged over 12 are considered adults.

 

Do you have baby food available?

For infants aged 0–1 year, baby food can be prepared according to your preferences. Please contact the Restaurant Manager in advance to place your order. Our staff is also happy to assist with warming baby bottles or baby food.

 

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

We are happy to accommodate special dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, and halal options. Please inform us in advance of any dietary preferences or allergies so our chefs can tailor your dining experience to your needs.

 

Are there any dress codes for the restaurants?

We follow a resort-casual dress code during dinner time at our restaurants. Swimwear and flip-flops are discouraged at our restaurants.

 

Can private dinners be arranged?

Create and personalize your own private dining experience, prepared and served at the location of your choice. To arrange this service, please contact our concierge or reach out to the Guest Relations department at [email protected]. Our chefs are delighted to accommodate any special dietary or meal requirements.

 

Can we book a table in advance?

We recommend booking your restaurant reservations in advance. You may reserve in advance via the Grecotel mobile application, available for download on all iOS and Android devices. Please note that reservation time slots for the upcoming week are updated every Thursday. Alternatively, reservations can be made at the front desk upon arrival or at any time during your stay.

Do we have to book the spa in advance?

While it is not necessary to book in advance, we recommend booking Elixir Alchemy Spa treatments and massages at least a week in advance. To make a reservation, you can use the Grecotel Mobile App (available on the App Store and Google Play), email [email protected], or call +30 28970 41103 to guarantee your preferred timing.

 

What are the spa facilities?

The Elixir Alchemy Spa offers a range of facilities for relaxation and wellness. It features an indoor pool, separate saunas for men and women, and six private massage rooms (including five singles and one double room). Guests can also enjoy a beauty salon, changing rooms, and a seafront beach massage area.

 

Do you have male therapists?

We do not have Male therapists at Elixir Alchemy Spa.

 

Do you have a gym?

Yes. We have a well-equipped gym with numerous modern cardio and strength-training equipment.

 

Do you have a salon?

While we do have a beauty salon on-site, we only offer manicure and pedicure treatments, or makeup services. Should you require hairdressing services, we will be happy to arrange a professional hairdresser upon request.For further details on available treatments and spa offerings, please refer to the below link: View treatments > 

Do you have a kids club?

Our Grecoland kids club is a dedicated, fully equipped space designed for children aged 4–12, offering a variety of creative and educational activities supervised by trained staff. Children aged 3 years old and below are also welcome to use the kids club with the presence of a parent or legal guardian. The club operates six days a week throughout the season.

 

Do you provide special amenities for babies and toddlers?

Yes. Our GrecoBaby service provides a wide range of amenities for infants and toddlers (aged 0–3 years) to ensure a comfortable stay. Items can be requested in advance by completing the Grecobaby Form >

 

Are babysitting services available?

Yes. Babysitting services are available at an additional cost and can be arranged through our reception. View babysitting terms & conditions >

What indoor & outdoor activities are available?

At Amirandes, indoor activities include yoga and Pilates, offering a perfect way to relax and stay fit. Outdoor options include football, basketball, golf, water sports, tennis, padel among others.

 

Are there good diving spots near Amirandes?

Yes. A certified PADI diving center is located nearby, offering diving lessons, guided excursions, and full equipment rental. For certified divers, experiences include wrecks, reefs, walls, caves, drift dives, and night dives. Courses are available for all levels, from beginners to advanced divers, and suitable for all ages.

 

Do you do Excursion boat trips?

Yes. Amirandes offers a variety of boat excursions to explore the Cretan coastline and surrounding islands. Choose from half-day or full-day trips by speedboat or sailing boat, with destinations such as Saint George, Dia Island, Agia Pelagia, and Elounda.

A wide selection of boats is available, from private yachts to traditional cruises, offering tailored experiences like snorkeling, fishing, and swimming. To plan your perfect day at sea, you may inquire with our concierge team upon arrival (subject to availability) or in advance via e-mail at [email protected] to secure this experience.

 

How do I book?

Reservations can be made by email at [email protected], by phone at +30 28970 41103, or directly through our website.

 

How do I pay for my reservation?

Once your reservation is confirmed, our reservations team will provide a secure online payment link to complete the payment by credit card. Alternatively, payments may also be made via bank transfer. We accept credit cards, debit cards, and cash. For credit card payments, we support VISA, MasterCard, American Express, Union Pay, Discover, JCB, and Diners Club.

Please note that the same credit card used at the time of booking must be presented upon check-in, along with a valid photo ID or passport of the cardholder.

In accordance with local legislation, please note that partial or full payment of invoices exceeding €500 in cash is not permitted. All payments above this amount must be made by credit or debit card, or via bank transfer.

 

What is the payment and cancellation policy?

Pre-payment is required in order to guarantee reservations. The exact timing for payment, as well as how far in advance you can cancel free of charge, depends on your stay dates and the specific offer under which you have booked.

 

Are there any additional fees?

According to legislation, a mandatory environmental tax called the Climate Crisis Resilience Fee is charged. From April 1st to October 31st, the fee is €15.00 per room, per night, and from November 1st to March 31st, it is reduced to €4.00 per room, per night. This fee is settled directly by guests at check-out.

Is the hotel accessible to mobility-impaired guests?

Not all departments are accessible to guests in wheelchairs. However, there are ramp sections or elevators beside most of the steps in the hotel.

 

Are pets allowed in the hotel?

Pets are allowed in selected room categories (restrictions apply). Guide dogs are permitted to accompany their handler in all hotel areas. To ensure eligibility and proper arrangements, the reservations department must be informed at the time of booking. View pet policy >

 

Do you have a medical facility or pharmacy nearby?

A 24/7 on-call doctor is available upon request (extra charges may apply depending on your travel insurance). The nearest pharmacy is located approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) away, about a 5-minute drive. The closest hospital is The University Hospital of Heraklion (Pa. G.N.I.) and it is approximately 25 km (15.5 miles) from the resort, about a 25–30-minute drive. Additionally, a private medical center can be found nearby (in Gouves.) For medical assistance or to arrange a doctor visit, please contact guest relations via e-mail at [email protected].

 

Is there 24-hour reception service?

Reception is available 24 hours a day.

 

Is there an exchange office at the reception desk?

No. Cash notes can be exchanged at the airport into Euros.

 

Do you provide Wi-Fi, and is it free?

We provide complimentary Wi-Fi access.

 

What are the parking options at the hotel?

There is a parking area on the hotel premises, free of charge, and alongside electric vehicle charging stations. Valet service is also available.

 

What plug adapter do I need to bring?

The hotel is equipped with Type C power plugs and sockets. Type C plugs feature two round parallel pins that connect to corresponding two-hole wall sockets. The standard voltage supplied is 220 V.

 

Is the tap water drinkable?

Tap water in Crete is generally safe to drink. However, it is recommended to opt for bottled water.

How can I contact the resort?

You can contact the resort by telephone at +30 28970 4110, WhatsApp, or via email at [email protected].

 

Which languages are spoken by the staff?

Our resort has multilingual staff to ensure a comfortable experience for all guests. We speak English, Greek, French, German, and Russian depending on the staff available.

 

How can I get the Grecotel App on my device?

The Grecotel Hotels & Resorts Mobile App is available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Please visit your preferred app store, search for “Grecotel Hotels & Resorts”, and install the app to conveniently manage and enhance your stay with us.

 

Are personalised services available?

Yes. Guests in select accommodations may enjoy personalized services at an additional charge, ensuring exceptional care and attention throughout their stay. For more information about the services and to confirm eligible accommodations, please contact us at  [email protected]  or  [email protected].

 

Do you accommodate requests for special occassions?

Yes. We accommodate requests for special occasions and offer special arrangements for honeymooners, anniversaries, birthdays, and other special occassions. Please contact our Guest Relations department to make an inquiry via e-mail at [email protected].