Perched along the turquoise shores of Crete’s north coast, Abaton Island Resort & Spa is the kind of place that redefines what a Greek island getaway feels like. Think mornings by the infinity pool, afternoons floating in the Aegean, world-class dining at your fingertips, and every detail designed to remind you, you’re on vacation. From the service to the setting, Abaton takes luxury to the next level.
Location
Just a quick 30-minute drive from Heraklion, Abaton sits in Hersonissos, a lively seaside town lined with hotels and resorts. What sets it apart? Abaton stretches across its own prime beachfront, offering a feeling of seclusion without cutting you off from the rest of the island. Whether you’re renting a car or hopping on public transport, it’s an easy-to-reach hideaway that feels worlds away.
Room Quality
Abaton’s rooms embody sleek, contemporary comfort with a touch of Cretan charm. Expect spacious layouts, plush furnishings, luxury toiletries, and thoughtful touches like daily housekeeping and generous balconies with room to lounge (or hang swimsuits after a beach day). For us, the space easily fit three people comfortably without ever feeling crowded.
Cleanliness
The resort was spotless during our stay, from the common areas to the private beaches. Even with Crete’s famously breezy afternoons scattering the occasional poolside drink, towels and loungers were always refreshed. It’s the kind of behind-the-scenes detail that makes your stay effortless.
Amenities included
- Outdoor Pool – The resort’s expansive outdoor pool is open to all guests and conveniently located just steps from the restaurants and the beach. Lined with plenty of lounge chairs, cabanas, and even floating waterbeds, it’s the perfect spot to unwind—just be sure to arrive early to secure your favorite seat.
- Gym – Well-equipped with everything you need for a vacation workout, conveniently located near the spa.
- Indoor Pool – Open year-round and perfect for a quieter dip.
- Common Work Area – Plenty of work-friendly nooks for digital nomads balancing emails with island views.
Extra amenities
- Spa – The spa uses Elemis products and offers an array of treatments. There are four treatment rooms and also a couple’s suite with a jacuzzi and sauna to enjoy with a friend or your significant other. Treatments range from spa massages, detox and body reshape, anti-ageing, LED facial therapy, a hair salon, nail services, and so much more. You can check out all the offerings through the menu here. The spa hours at 10:00am-8:00pm.
- Private Sunset Cruises – Board from Abaton’s pier and set sail with your own captain to explore Hersonissos Bay or the mythical island of Dia. Food and drinks are included, and timing is flexible, from a quick 30-minute voyage to a two-hour golden-hour escape. For more information, make sure to check out the experience page here.
Shopping – Abaton makes it easy to treat yourself without ever leaving the resort. Browse high-end Greek designer pieces at Hellene Chic, stock up on stylish beachwear at the Riviera Concept Boutique, or pick up a timeless keepsake at Abaton Jewels. And for the gentlemen, Man of Honor offers a carefully curated collection of handpicked fashion and accessories.
Customer Service
From the moment you book your stay until the moment you check out, Abaton’s customer service is flawless. Every interaction feels warm, attentive, and designed to elevate your experience, whether it’s a massage at the spa, a meal at one of the resort’s five restaurants, or simply relaxing with a view from your room.
During my stay, the front desk even called to check in and ask if there was anything they could do to make my time more enjoyable, a small but thoughtful gesture that speaks volumes. Check-in itself was effortless: we were greeted with a complimentary welcome drink, while a bellhop escorted us to our room, helped with luggage, and walked us through the amenities.
Reservations were never an issue either. When OpenTable showed no availability on a Saturday night, the concierge still managed to secure a table for us. At the beach, when we needed an extra chair, the staff brought one over right away. It’s these little touches, from the managers to the service staff—that make you feel genuinely cared for and completely at ease.
Public Transportation
Crete is well-connected by public transportation, and staying in Hersonissos is no exception. Just a ten-minute walk from Abaton, you’ll find a KTEL bus stop with routes to Heraklion and beyond. The buses are air-conditioned and affordable, costing around €1.20 one way across multiple zones.
The closest stop, Limenas Hersonissos, can take you to other parts of town or to nearby Analipsi. For longer trips, especially to Heraklion or the airport, a taxi is often quicker. The front desk can easily arrange one for you. My early morning transfer to the airport was seamless and cost about €40.
Dining
With five different restaurants on-site, Abaton takes dining seriously. Each venue highlights a different flavor of Greece (and beyond), making it easy to try something new every day. Dinner reservations are highly recommended, as the restaurants are also open to the public.
- Elemes Creative Cuisine – For our final night in Crete, we booked a table here, and it was nothing short of unforgettable. The menu celebrates the flavors of Crete, featuring local and seasonal produce—some of which is even grown in the garden right outside the restaurant. Dishes are cooked in a wood-fired oven, filling the air with the subtle aroma of burning wood while a Lyra musician sets the mood. We shared starters of fresh salad and dips before moving on to rooster pasta, grouper, and beef cheeks. Dessert was a fragrant orange cake—an incredible sendoff. Elemes is open for both breakfast and dinner, with à la carte and set menu options (dinner set menus start at €60). You can check out Elemen’s breakfast menu here and their dinner menu here.
- Buddha Bar Beach: Ocean views, poolside vibes, and a live DJ bring Buddha-Bar’s Mykonos energy straight to Crete. Sushi is the star here, but the menu also caters to meat lovers and vegetarians. We tried the avocado roll, California roll, spicy tuna roll, edamame, and shrimp bao buns (my personal favorite). The next day, we ordered lunch poolside—think sushi, burgers, and the katsu sando—proving you don’t even have to leave your sunbed to enjoy. Their lunch and dinner menus are the same,e and you can check out what else is featured here. The next day, we ordered at the pool, which has a slightly different menu that you can check out here.
- Bony Fish Seafood Restaurant: My only regret was not dining here. The seafood is caught fresh from the Aegean and prepared with traditional Cretan techniques, served alongside stunning sea views. Open for both lunch and dinner, with distinct menus, this is a must for seafood lovers. You can check out the menu for both meals during your day on their website, located here.
- WOW Steak: If you’ve been craving a perfectly cooked cut of meat during your travels, WOW Steak delivers. Chef Chronakis Giorgos presents standout dishes like wagyu tataki, beef carpaccio, bone marrow, slow-cooked brisket, and even housemade deli meats. Everything is à la carte, including the sauces. And for vegetarians, there’s a full dedicated menu as well. Make sure to check out their full menu here and make a reservation as soon as you check in, as it is a popular spot on the resort!
- Zin Ivy League Restaurant: The resort’s all-day dining restaurant. Breakfast is served buffet-style with plenty of choices, plus a menu of eggs cooked to order—omelets, scrambled, or fried—alongside yogurt, breakfast meats, pastries, coffee, and prosecco for morning mimosas. By evening, Zin transforms into a formal dining space with an à la carte menu. Think pasta with your choice of sauces (pesto, truffle, garlic oil, etc.) and grilled specialties like chicken, beef, lamb, and fish.
Unlike breakfast, dinner is a formal sit-down with an al la carte menu including some classics such as pasta with different sauces (linguini, penne, and risotto with choices of pesto, truffle, garlic oil, etc.) or dinner from the grill like chicken, beef, lamb, and fish! The full menu can be found here to explore all of the options they serve.
Room Options
With fourteen unique accommodations to choose from, ranging from deluxe rooms and guestrooms to suites and beachfront villas, Abaton ensures every guest finds their perfect retreat. Each option combines style, comfort, and proximity to the sparkling Aegean, making it easy to feel right at home while indulging in the ultimate Cretan escape.
Deep Blu Deluxe – This sea-view guest room offers a private balcony with an unobstructed glimpse of the stunning Aegean Sea. Thoughtfully designed for easy movement and comfort, the room is perfect for couples or friends sharing, combining functionality with relaxation for a truly enjoyable Cretan escape.
- King Size Bed
- Furnished balcony
- Breakfast included
- Bathroom amenities
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Beach and bath towels
- Hairdryer
- Coffee and Tea station, including a Nespresso machine
- Satellite Smart TV
- In-room mounting bathtub
- Bed & Breakfast or Half Board Dining Options
- Accessible Rooms Available
- Connecting rooms upon request
- Maximum 2 people
Thalassa Deluxe Room – True to its name, this room boasts a prime seafront location with breathtaking views of the Aegean. Relax on your fully furnished balcony or unwind in a soothing bath after a day of exploring Crete; every detail is designed to make your stay serene, indulgent, and unforgettable.
- King Size Bed
- Furnished balcony
- Bathroom amenities
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Coffee and Tea station, including a Nespresso machine
- Satellite Smart TV
- In-room mounting bathtub
- Bed & Breakfast or Half Board Dining Options
- Sea view location
- Maximum 2 people
Luxury Guest Room – Combining sleek design with stunning views, this room offers a private outdoor jacuzzi where you can unwind and soak in the beauty of Crete at your leisure. Every detail is crafted for comfort and relaxation, making it the perfect retreat for couples or solo travelers seeking a luxurious escape.
- King Size Bed
- Furnished balcony
- Bathroom amenities
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Coffee and Tea station, including a Nespresso machine
- Satellite Smart TV
- In-room mounting bathtub
- Bed & Breakfast or Half Board Dining Options
- Private outdoor jacuzzi
- Maximum 2 people
Loft Deluxe Room – Perfect for two guests plus one, this sleek, spacious loft-style room combines comfort and style with a homey touch. The upstairs loft features a sofa that converts into a cozy bed, while a desk makes it ideal for digital nomads or anyone needing a bit of work while enjoying the Aegean. With ample space for luggage, luxurious linens, and a well-appointed bathroom, it’s easy to get ready for a night out or a dinner at one of the resort’s restaurants, making this room both practical and indulgent
- King Size Bed
- Sofa Bed
- Desk and wardrobe
- Furnished balcony
- Bathroom amenities
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Coffee and Tea station, including a Nespresso machine
- Satellite Smart TV
- In-room mounting bathtub
- Bed & Breakfast or Half Board Dining Options
- Maximum 3 people
Luxury Guest Room with Shared Pool or Private Pool – Whether you opt for a private pool or a shared pool, stepping out onto your balcony for a swim is effortless, whether it’s 6 AM or 4 PM. The rooms themselves are identical in design and amenities, so you can’t go wrong with either choice. If you choose a shared pool, it’s exclusively shared with neighboring Luxury Guest Rooms, never the entire resort, giving you a semi-private and relaxing experience.
- King Size Bed
- Furnished balcony
- Bathroom amenities
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Coffee and Tea station, including a Nespresso machine
- Satellite Smart TV
- CD/DVD player (private pool room only)
- In-room mounting bathtub
- Bed & Breakfast or Half Board Dining Options
- Connecting rooms available upon request (shared pool only)
- Private or shared pool
- Maximum 2 people
Abaton Collection Suite with Private Jacuzzi – This multi-level suite combines stunning sea views with ultimate indulgence, featuring a private outdoor jacuzzi for whenever you wish to unwind. Luxuriously furnished and thoughtfully designed, the suite comfortably accommodates up to three guests, with two TVs and a private seating area, making it the perfect retreat for relaxation, entertainment, and enjoying the beauty of Crete in style.
- King Size Bed
- Furnished balcony
- Bathroom amenities
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Coffee and Tea station, including a Nespresso machine
- 2 Satellite Smart TV
- CD/DVD player
- In-room mounting bathtub
- Bed & Breakfast or Half Board Dining Options
- Private Jacuzzi
- Maximum 3 people
Abaton Collection Suite with Sharing Pool – Ideal for two or three guests, this split-level suite combines space, style, and relaxation. Step out to a beautifully maintained shared pool and enjoy all the comforts of the Abaton Collection, making it the perfect blend of privacy and social luxury for your Cretan escape.
- King Size Bed
- Furnished balcony
- Bathroom amenities
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Coffee and Tea station, including a Nespresso machine
- 2 Satellite Smart TV
- In-room mounting bathtub
- Bed & Breakfast or Half Board Dining Options
- Shared pool
- Maximum 3 people
Abaton Collection Suite with Private Pool – Placed on the hotel’s top floor, this suite offers sweeping views of the Aegean Sea from the comfort of your own private pool. Designed for ultimate luxury, the suite features Jo Malone amenities, setting it apart from other rooms in the resort. Every detail ensures a serene, indulgent escape where you can soak in the sea views and unwind in style.
- King Size Bed
- Furnished balcony
- Bathroom amenities (Jo Malone)
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Coffee and Tea station, including a Nespresso machine
- 2 Satellite Smart TV
- In-room mounting bathtub
- Bed & Breakfast or Half Board Dining Options
- Private pool
- Maximum 3 people
Luxury Seafront Guestroom with Private Pool – Perfect for two, this room offers a private pool and patio with stunning sea views, creating the ultimate setting for relaxation and alone time. Elevated with Frédéric Malle amenities—a step above the Elemis products found in most rooms—every detail is designed to make your Cretan escape feel indulgent, serene, and unforgettable.
- King Size Bed
- Furnished balcony
- Bathroom amenities (Frederic Malle)
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Coffee and Tea station, including a Nespresso machine
- Satellite Smart TV with International Channels
- In-room mounting bathtub
- Bed & Breakfast or Half Board Dining Options
- Private pool
- Maximum 2 people
Loft Luxury Seafront Guestroom with Private Pool – Just steps from the beach, this multi-level loft offers a perfect blend of style and comfort. Featuring a private pool, spacious living area, and thoughtfully designed amenities, it’s ideal for two to three guests seeking a luxurious seaside escape. Every detail is crafted to make your Cretan vacation effortless, indulgent, and unforgettable.
- King Size Bed
- Furnished balcony
- Bathroom amenities (Frederic Malle)
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Coffee and Tea station, including a Nespresso machine
- Satellite Smart TV with International Channels
- In-room mounting bathtub
- Bed & Breakfast or Half Board Dining Options
- Private pool
- Maximum 3 people
Island Seafront Honeymoon Suite with Private Pool & Outdoor Jacuzzi – Tucked away in a serene corner of the resort, this exclusive suite is one of only three of its kind. Designed for romance and indulgence, it features a private pool, an outdoor jacuzzi, and a chic seating area where you can soak in sweeping seafront views. Inside, the suite’s elegant interior ensures every moment feels unforgettable, making it the perfect retreat for couples seeking a truly memorable escape in Crete.
- King Size Bed
- Furnished balcony
- Bathroom amenities (Frederic Malle)
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Coffee and Tea station, including a Nespresso machine
- 2 Satellite Smart TV with International Channels
- In-room mounting bathtub
- Bed & Breakfast or Half Board Dining Options
- Private pool
- Private Jacauzzi
- Seating area
- Maximum 3 people
Dream Villa Beachfront with Private Pool – With only two of these exclusive villas on the property, staying here truly makes you feel like a VIP. This two-story escape brings your Cretan getaway to the next level, offering sweeping oceanfront views, a heated private pool, and a furnished patio perfect for lounging. Guests also enjoy first access to reservations at Elemes Creative Cuisine, just steps from the villa. With two bedrooms, the villa comfortably accommodates up to six guests, making it ideal for families or friends seeking a dreamy, unforgettable retreat.
- Seating area
- Dining Area
- 2 King Size Beds
- Bathroom amenities (Frederic Malle)
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Coffee and Tea station, including a Nespresso machine
- 2 Satellite Smart TV with International Channels
- In-room mounting bathtub
- Bed & Breakfast or Half Board Dining Options
- Private pool
- Outerdoor Jacuzzi
- Butler Service
- Maximum 6 people
The Royal Villa – The name says it all. This stunning two-story villa accommodates up to eight guests and redefines what it means to experience luxury in Crete. Enjoy your own private garden, steps from the beach, and a heated pool that invites relaxation at any hour. From the moment you arrive, the villa makes you feel like true Greek royalty—every detail crafted for comfort and indulgence, leaving you wishing your stay would never end.
- Seating area
- Dining Area
- Kitchen
- 2 King Size Beds
- Bathroom amenities (Frederic Malle)
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Coffee and Tea station, including a Nespresso machine
- 2 Satellite Smart TV
- CD or DVD player
- Steam bath
- Gym
- Walk-in closet
- Elevator
- Outdoor jacuzzi
- Private pool
- Butler Service
- Home cinema
- Butler service
- Maximum 9 people
Safety
Abaton is a fully private property, so even before you arrive, you’ll notice the focus on security. Vehicles entering must stop at the gate and provide guest information, including room number and number of passengers, before being allowed in. While Abaton’s restaurants are open to the public, most diners you’ll find are guests of the resort itself. Each room also comes equipped with a secure safe, giving you peace of mind for storing valuables and belongings throughout your stay.
Public Attractions
One of the best parts of staying at Abaton is how close you are to some of Crete’s most famous cultural and natural landmarks. A few highlights:
- Knossos Palace – The legendary birthplace of the Minotaur and one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites.
- Heraklion – Crete’s capital city, perfect for shopping, dining, and sightseeing.
- Parlamas Museum of Rural Life – Featuring a beautiful garden, sweeping views of Hersonissos, and history tied to the traditional olive mill where it’s located.
- Roza Gorge (Upper Entrance/Viewpoint) – A breathtaking vantage point with sheer cliffs and dramatic mountain scenery—perfect for hikers and nature lovers.
- Lychnostatis Open Air Museum – A beloved collection over 30 years in the making, showcasing Crete’s folklore, environment, traditions, and ethnology.
- Heraklion Archaeological Museum – One of Greece’s most important museums and the world’s leading collection of Minoan art and culture.
- Koules Fortress – A Venetian fortress in Heraklion, offering a great alternative if you can’t make it to Chania.
- Acqua Plus Water Park – One of the largest waterparks in Crete, great for families and thrill-seekers.
- CRETAquarium Thalassokosmos – Among Europe’s largest and most modern aquariums, home to 1,500 marine animals and 130 Mediterranean species.
- Skotino Cave – The largest cave in Crete, located near the village of Skotino.
- Fairy Cave – Just outside Astrakoi village, this spring-fed lake was once Heraklion’s water supply. Today, it’s a beautiful and easily accessible hiking spot.
Check-in Check-out Process
The arrival experience at Abaton sets the tone for the entire stay. Upon arrival, a bellhop greeted us, handled our luggage, and offered a choice of welcome drinks (wine, cocktails, or tea). While we waited, the front desk team checked us in, and the concierge explained the property layout, amenities, and experiences available during our stay.
Check-in officially begins at 3:00 pm, so we enjoyed lunch at Buddha-Bar Beach until we were called to our room. Once ready, the bellhop escorted us, explained how everything worked—from lighting and balcony features to directions around the property—and made sure we felt settled.
Check-out was equally smooth, though much harder emotionally; it’s never easy leaving paradise! With charges billed to the room, settling up was quick, and the staff was warm as we said our goodbyes. Standard check-out is 12:00 pm, though early check-in and late check-out may be arranged upon request, subject to availability.
Airport
Abaton is conveniently located about 30 minutes west of Heraklion Airport, making arrivals and departures simple. Parking is available on the property if you’re renting a car, and the front desk can easily arrange a taxi for you. My early morning airport transfer cost about €40.
Positive and Negatives
I’ll be honest—I don’t typically gravitate toward resorts when staying in Greece, but Abaton completely changed my mind. The resort perfectly balances the convenience and luxury of a five-star property with the authenticity of Cretan culture. From its thoughtful design and ambiance to the menus crafted with local ingredients, Abaton doesn’t feel like it could exist anywhere else.
Positives
- All amenities are walkable and easily accessible around the resort
- Multiple dining packages available
- Breakfast is included with every room
- Pool and beach access
- Extra beach towels are provided at the pool and beach
- Spacious, luxuriously furnished rooms
- Concierge service available
- Five restaurants on the property
- Parking on premises
- Private property with controlled access
- Close to Heraklion airport
- Room service available
Negatives
- The beach is not fully calm, and lounge chairs are set slightly off the shoreline
- Not all rooms offer sea views
- Limited nightlife; most bars and restaurants close by 11pm
- A rental car is recommended for exploring the island, as taxis are necessary otherwise
- Luggage space may feel tight for groups of three
- Spa treatments book quickly—reserve early
I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at Abaton. Its location strikes the perfect balance: close to the capital, the airport, and local attractions, yet secluded enough to truly unwind. The resort is small enough to navigate easily without ever feeling crowded, and the design and ambiance exude understated luxury. The hospitality is where Abaton truly shines; every staff member went above and beyond to ensure our stay was seamless and memorable. From concierge support to poolside assistance, it’s clear that every detail is designed with the guest in mind.
If you’re planning a trip to Crete and are seeking a luxurious, relaxing, and authentic experience, I couldn’t recommend Abaton Island Resort & Spa more. It’s a destination where comfort, elegance, and genuine Cretan charm come together beautifully.
