Experiencing the ultimate adults-only resort in Crete at Numo Ierapetra. Enjoying serene beaches, luxurious amenities, and exquisite dining in this beachfront paradise

 

There’s a unique magic in stepping into an adults-only resort in Crete and leaving the city’s hustle and bustle behind. It’s like entering a parallel universe where everything slows down, and you can finally breathe. I’ve always loved classic hotels with grand facades and expansive lobbies, but summer resorts, especially those on the beach, have a special place in my heart. They offer a microcosm of relaxation and luxury, where you can fully immerse yourself without stepping outside. This time, my escape brought me back to one of my all-time favorites: Numo Ierapetra in Crete. Combining unpretentious luxury, wild landscapes, impeccable taste, and cool vibes, it’s the perfect adults-only retreat.

A Zen Welcome at Numo Ierapetra

From the moment I arrived at Numo Ierapetra, I felt a wave of calm wash over me. Situated on the southern coast of Crete, the resort is perched on a beautiful, somewhat rugged beach with crystal-clear waters, grey sand, and dramatic rock formations. The design here is all about zen simplicity, perfectly complementing the natural beauty. The view of tamarisk trees lining the beach instantly set a carefree summer mood.

Escaping to the best beachfront adults-only resort in Crete: Numo Ierapetra

Escaping to the best beachfront adults-only resort in Crete: Numo Ierapetra

Check-in was a breeze, with a refreshing welcome drink and cool towels that made me feel like I was already on vacation. The staff were so friendly and relaxed, making the transition from city stress to beach bliss seamless.

Morning Bliss in Crete
My day started at the Tamarisk Restaurant, a charming spot with big ceramic vases and comfy chairs. The buffet was a Cretan feast, full of local delights, that kicked off my day perfectly. I couldn’t help but appreciate the thick shade and cool breeze provided by the tamarisk trees. For us Greeks, tamarisks are the holy grail of beach life—they mean thick, rich shade and symbolize carefree summer days. Numo’s beachfront, with its full row of these magical trees, is one of the many reasons why this resort is my favorite adults-only destination in Crete.

Daytime Delights at a Beachfront Adults-Only Resort in Crete
Deciding between spending the day at the beach or the pool was a delightful dilemma. The beach, with its rhythmic waves, calls to my soul seeking tranquility. Here, the clear waters and soft grey sands invite long, lazy days of sunbathing and swimming. In contrast, the pool area pulses with life, featuring DJ sets and live performances that transform it into a vibrant oasis. Thankfully, there’s also a quiet zone with another pool for moments when solitude beckons, offering a serene escape amidst the lively atmosphere.

One of the highlights of the resort is its balance between liveliness and serenity. Being an adults-only resort, Numo Ierapetra ensures that you can enjoy the company of fellow adults without the usual chaos of family-oriented resorts. Yoga sessions, quiet zones by the pool, and the open-air cinema added to the relaxed yet engaging atmosphere.

Culinary Adventures in Crete
Tamarisk sets the tone from early morning with a lavish buffet breakfast. I start my day with an abundance of fresh ingredients and baked goods, lounging on a beachfront table and planning my perfect day at Numo. By noon, I’m back at Tamarisk for an à la carte lunch featuring the freshest seafood and meze, meticulously prepared at the open cooking stations.

As night falls, Tamarisk becomes a culinary haven. The buffet dinner offers the finest meat cuts, fish, and pasta, with every ingredients sourced from local suppliers. Each dish surprises and delights even the most discerning palates.

For a different dining experience,  I also tried the a la carte restaurant MenoaThis cool, candle-lit space offers a fusion menu of Mediterranean, Peruvian, and Asian influences, curated by chef Nikos Kourkoutas. Beef tataki and black cod were among my favorite dishes. And then there are the drinks. The Negroni with oregano and the gin and tonic with herbs from Crete are crafted to perfection, adding a final touch of sophistication to the dining experience.

Evenings of Delight at Numo Ierapetra

After dinner, the open-air cinema was the perfect way to end the day. Under the starry sky, I lounged in a comfortable chair, wrapped in a soft pashmina, and watched feel-good movies (one night it was “Mamma Mia”, another was “The Devil Wears Prada”). It was a brilliant touch by the resort’s owners, capturing the essence of Greek summer nights.

A Cretan resort that offers pure escapism

Numo Ierapetra has perfected the art of being the ideal adults-only retreat. It’s lively enough to keep you entertained but never crosses into chaotic. Imagine lounging by the pool, a gentle breeze carrying the melodies of “Sweet Dreams,” while fellow guests either sway to the rhythm or lose themselves in a good book. It’s a slice of heaven, carefully designed to offer just the right balance of energy and calm.

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