Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa * Private Pools & Views

Name: CAYO EXCLUSIVE RESORT & SPA, Elounda (Crete)
Address: Plaka, Elounda (Crete), Crete, 72053
Price range: US$443+
Rating: 9.4

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Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa Elounda Restaurant photo

Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa Elounda Interior photo

Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa Elounda Exterior photo

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Key details

About spa resort

Plaka, Elounda (Crete), 72053

Close to Plaka Beach

Perfect

9.4

9.9

/10

5.0

4.8

Loved by Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa guests

Crystal clear beach

Attentive staff

Fine views

Delicious breakfast

Relaxing atmosphere

"All rooms have the most breathtaking view over towards Spinalonga and the coast so you can watch the little boats making their journeys."

Caroline from United Kingdom

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"We really enjoyed our stay and the breakfast was excellent."

Laura from United Kingdom

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"Private pool and balcony with room is great."

Emma

5-star resort in Elounda with private pools in every accommodation and Michelin-starred dining

Accommodation

Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa offers private pools in every accommodation, each with panoramic sea views of Spinalonga Island. Rooms were designed by a renowned Italian designer and include soundproof walls and a separate walk-in closet. The hotel's funicular lift provides easy access across the hillside resort.

Dining

Four on-site restaurants serve Mediterranean and international cuisine. Menus are curated by Michelin-starred Chef Lefteris Lazarou. Breakfast includes gluten-free and vegetarian selections, with local specialties and fresh pastries.

Wellness

The dedicated spa offers personalized treatments including massages, body scrubs, and facials. Facilities include three outdoor pools, a fitness centre, sauna, steam room, and yoga classes. Spa/wellness packages and couples massage treatments are available.

Location and Activities

The hotel is a 4-minute walk from Plaka Beach and offers a complimentary shuttle to the private beach area. Nearby attractions include the historic Spinalonga Island, Lake Voulismeni, and Agios Nikolaos. Guests can book walking tours, cooking classes, and bike rentals through the concierge.

Family and Business

Children have a dedicated playground and kids' outdoor play equipment, plus babysitting services. For business, the hotel has state-of-the-art conference facilities and a business centre. Evening entertainment includes live music, themed dinner nights, and movie nights.

Highlights

Accommodation: Private pools in every room with sea views

Dining: Menus by Michelin-starred Chef Lefteris Lazarou

Wellness: Dedicated spa with personalized treatments

Location: 4 min from Plaka Beach, near Spinalonga

Transport: Funicular lift and complimentary beach shuttle

Family: Children's playground and babysitting services

Must-do experiences

Savor fresh octopus at Taverna Katerina by the seafront.
Visit Spinalonga Island for a glimpse of history and stunning views.
Explore the local farmers' market in Elounda on Fridays for fresh produce.
Enjoy a sunset dinner at Aglauros for spectacular views of the bay.
Wander through the olive groves and try local olive oils at farms.

Location: Perfect

9.4/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

Sports & FitnessFitness Paradise

Our villa included a private gym with a treadmill and exercise bike. Minimizing the damage from those scrumptious breakfasts was a breeze.

Marcus from Australia

Review on

DiningBreakfast heaven

The variety at breakfast was amazing. They offer fresh fruit, yogurts, pastries, waffles, pancakes, and even prosecco!

Olivia from Canada

Review on

Room FeaturesPlunge perfection

The room had a large plunge pool and outdoor loungers. Plus, the fridge was stocked with water daily.

Rajesh from India

Review on

BathroomLuxury Shower

The great shower was stocked with shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, and body lotions.

Emily from United Kingdom

Review on

Select your room type

Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Superior Room Sea View
2 persons
33 sq. feet
2 Single beds
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Superior Room Private Pool Sea View
2 persons
33 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Premium Room Private Pool Sea View
2 persons
33 sq. feet
2 Single beds
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details

Show all rooms

Price and Room Availability Calendar

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September 2026 - September 2027

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Perfect

9.4/10Review score

General

Non-smoking property
Free Wi-Fi
Free parking
Off-site car park
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Luggage storage
Locker room
Electric vehicle charging station
Key card access

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Yoga class
Sports trainer

Services

Paid airport shuttle
Valet parking
Car hire
Laundry
Wake up service
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area

Children

Children's menu
Children's play area

Facilities for people with disabilities

Toilet for disabled
Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

Outdoor swimming pool
Sun terrace
Spa & wellness centre
Sauna
Steam room
Pedicure
Manicure
Waxing
Body scrub
Facial
Treatment room
Body wraps
Back massage
Head massage
Full body massage
Foot massage
Make up services

Room features

Individual air conditioning
Heating
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Turndown service

Bathroom

Toilet

Bedroom

Pillow menu

Dining Onsite

Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa boasts an inviting array of dining venues that celebrate both local flavors and international influences. With an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from eco-friendly farms, guests can experience a range of culinary delights in enchanting settings that elevate every meal.

Ambrosia Main Restaurant
International
Ambiance
Bright and airy, perfect for a relaxed dining experience.
Key Offerings
Delight in a variety of vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options for breakfast and dinner, crafted with the freshest local produce.
Reservation
Not needed
Breakfast: 07:30 - 10:30, Dinner: 19:00 - 21:30
Sage & Thyme Mediterranean Restaurant
Mediterranean
Ambiance
Casual and inviting, with a sunlit backdrop for a delightful lunch break.
Key Offerings
Enjoy a selection of Mediterranean dishes, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, all prepared with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
Reservation
Not needed
Lunch: 11:00 - 19:00
Kelari Gourmet Restaurant
Mediterranean
Ambiance
Elegant and sophisticated, offering a refined atmosphere for dinner.
Key Offerings
Experience a gourmet selection of Mediterranean cuisine featuring vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free dishes, emphasizing creative twists on classic flavors.
Reservation
Recommended
Dinner: 19:30 - 22:30
Stone Beach by Cayo
Mediterranean
Ambiance
Beachside casual setting with ocean views, perfect for a scenic lunch.
Key Offerings
Indulge in fresh Mediterranean lunch options, ideal for those seeking a relaxed outdoor experience by the sea.
Reservation
Not needed
Lunch: 10:00 - 19:00
Filema Restaurant
Greek, Local
Ambiance
Modern decor, offering a cozy yet stylish setting for a hearty breakfast or charming dinner.
Key Offerings
Savor authentic Greek recipes alongside vegetarian options, with an emphasis on locally sourced produce for a true taste of the region.
Reservation
Recommended
Breakfast: 07:00 - 10:30, Dinner: 19:00 - 21:30

Location

Plaka, Elounda (Crete), 72053

Explore Elounda (Crete)

Local Highlights

Spinalonga Fortress

25 minutes' walk

Historical fortress on Spinalonga Island, with guided tours available. Offers beautiful views and unique history.

Plaka Village

8 minutes' walk

Charming village with traditional architecture. Ideal for leisurely strolls and capturing stunning coastal views.

Ferry to Spinalonga

8 minutes' walk

Access point for ferry rides to Spinalonga Island. Scenic boat trips with breathtaking views of the coastline.

Water Sports

8 minutes' walk

Available at nearby beaches, including snorkeling and kayaking. Rental services often on-site for convenience.

Hiking at Φαράγγι Χαυγά

30 minutes' walk

Scenic hiking trail featuring stunning landscapes. Open year-round, offering a great escape into nature.

Taverna Spinalonga

6 minutes' walk

Traditional Greek taverna with local dishes. Enjoy fresh seafood and stunning sunset views from the terrace.

Ostria

5 minutes' walk

Cozy eatery specializing in Mediterranean cuisine. Features a warm atmosphere and vegetarian options available.

Taverna Giorgos

9 minutes' walk

Family-run restaurant known for authentic Greek dishes. Reservations recommended for popular dinner times.

The Island Cafe

8 minutes' walk

Casual cafe with live music events. Great for evening entertainment in a relaxed setting with local vibes.

Ferry Terminal

45 minutes' walk

Access point for boat trips and scenic cruises. Offers family-friendly excursions and sunset tours.

Getting around

City Centre
Elounda (Crete) 7 min · 2.7 mi
Airports
Nikos Kazantzakis (HER) 94 min · 38.7 mi
Sitia Public (JSH) 123 min · 50.9 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

Public parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Breakfast

A full breakfast is served at the price of EUR 18.0 per person.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Languages

English, German, French, Italian, Greek, Russian, Ukrainian

Number of rooms:

114

Former name

cayo exclusive resort and spa

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa is praised for its beautiful design and spacious, clean rooms, some featuring divine private pools. Many guests appreciate the proximity to Plaka village with its excellent tavernas, a mere ten-minute walk away, as well as the views of Spinalonga Island. Breakfast is a highlight, offering a wide variety from fresh fruit and yoghurts to hot food and even prosecco; however, a few guests noted that some sunbeds at the beach were not always available. The hotel also provides a cable car for enjoying panoramic views.

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Review score

Based on 278 verified reviews

9.4 /10

Perfect

94 %

Recommend

Comfort

9.6/10

Staff

9.6/10

Breakfast

7.5/10

Value for money

8.6/10

Pros

Villa amenities

Excellent staff

Superb breakfasts

Private pools

Shuttle service

Cons

Cold pools

Beach chair policy

Christopher from United Kingdom

Couple

Superior Room Sea View

5 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 11, 2026

9.3/10

Wonderful and Clean!

great landscaping comfy bed divine pool spacious room

this hotel provided everything needed for relaxation. the welcome was just perfect upon arrival. the hotel is beautifully designed with great landscaping. rooms were spacious and clean, and the bed was so comfy. i spent most of the day on the terrace with its divine private pool.

the hotel location is relatively isolated. it lacks a beach, tennis court, and other little activities. i think it could benefit from offering more on-site options.

Service

9/10

reception staff was super helpful for me. restaurant staff was also very attentive. i find some employees insufficiently trained, but this did not affect my stay much. it was overall an amazing service.

Rooms

10/10

i stayed in an executive room. it was spotlessly clean and very comfortable. i found plenty of space, including an awesome balcony. we also enjoyed the great infinity pool .

Location

9/10

this location offered views of the sea and spinalonga island. i walked each evening to plaka village, a ten minute journey. it was easy to get around and discover the area. this location is peaceful.

0 Helpful

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Benjamin from Germany

Couple

Superior Room Sea View

5 nights in August 2025

Reviewed: August 27, 2025

9/10

clean room wide selection

the room was super clean the bed was very comfortable. breakfast offered a wide selection there was nothing to complain about.

sometimes i had to ask the bar staff to bring towels to the sunbeds near the main pool it could be improved.

0 Helpful

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Questions of the users

About Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa

What sets apart the executive room with a pool from the premium room that features a heated pool?

18 July 2024

Premium rooms provide a wider panoramic view of the sea and have a larger exterior space of 60 m2, complemented by additional furniture on the verandas, such as sofas to fully appreciate the stunning vistas.

Are there local dining options nearby that serve traditional cuisine within walking distance of the resort?

12 August 2024

The resort features four delightful restaurants on-site, in addition to several local traditional tavernas located in the village of Plaka, making it easy to explore local flavors.

Are there multiple dining options for guests on a half-board plan, or is there just one restaurant available?

22 September 2024

Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa has four different restaurants, and the Ambrosia restaurant specifically serves a half-board buffet for guests.

Is there a vegan-friendly menu available for meals at the resort?

5 May 2024

While there isn't a dedicated vegan menu, a variety of fruits and vegetables are offered from the vegetarian menu. Guests can also request specific vegan options that the chef could potentially accommodate.

Is it possible to heat the private pool in my room, and what is the associated cost?

14 June 2024

The private swimming pool in the room can be heated up to 26°C for an additional fee of 45€ per day, with prior notice of 24 hours required. However, for premium rooms or two-bedroom villas with private heated pools, no extra fee applies.

In rooms with twin beds, is there a space between the two beds?

8 March 2025

The twin beds in the resort feature separate bed bases and mattresses, allowing for a little space between them while still being positioned closely together.

How far is the resort from the nearest beach, and is there a transportation option available?

21 January 2025

The resort is situated 250 meters from Plaka pebble beach, with a complimentary shuttle service operating daily from 09:00 to 19:00 for easy access.

Is there an option to swim in heated pools at the resort?

30 March 2024

Yes, all room types with pools can have their pools heated to 26°C for an extra charge of 45 EUR per night.

What is the beach quality near the resort? Are there sandy areas or is it mainly rocky?

19 April 2025

The resort is located near a rocky beach, specifically Plaka's pebble beach, providing beautiful views and access to the vibrancy of the sea.

Are there any available fitness facilities for guests at the resort?

29 February 2024

Yes, there is a well-equipped fitness center available to guests, featuring state-of-the-art equipment for a comprehensive workout experience.

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CAYO EXCLUSIVE RESORT & SPA, Elounda (Crete)

About spa resort

Loved by Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa guests

Accommodation

Dining

Wellness

Location and Activities

Family and Business

Highlights

Must-do experiences

Select your room type

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Facilities

General

Sports & Fitness

Services

Dining

Children

Facilities for people with disabilities

Spa & Leisure

Room features

Bathroom

Bedroom

Dining Onsite

Ambrosia Main Restaurant

Sage & Thyme Mediterranean Restaurant

Kelari Gourmet Restaurant

Stone Beach by Cayo

Filema Restaurant

Location

Reviews and Ratings

Wonderful and Clean!

Next best alternative

Popular hotels all over the world