Escape to Paradise: Indigo Mare Hotel, Crete's Hidden Gem
Escape to Paradise: Indigo Mare Hotel, Crete – Yeah, This is the Life (Mostly)
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I just got back from the Indigo Mare Hotel in Crete, and my brain is still buzzing with sun, ouzo, and the general feeling of well-being. Forget those perfectly polished travel blogs; this is the real deal, warts (and sunburns) and all.
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Right, so first impressions. You arrive, and… wow. Seriously, wow. The Indigo Mare is perched on a hillside, all whitewashed buildings and sparkling turquoise water. It’s postcard perfect, and honestly, it almost feels… too perfect. Suspiciously perfect. You’re expecting Zeus to pop out at any moment, handing out ambrosia and telling you to relax.
(Getting There & The Lay of the Land – Accessibility, Bless Their Hearts!)
Getting there? Easy peasy with the airport transfer – a smooth ride in a comfy, air-conditioned (thank the heavens!) vehicle provided by the hotel. That’s a HUGE plus, especially after a transatlantic flight. And speaking of pluses, for those of you wanting details on access, I've got you.
Accessibility: Now, let's be real, Crete isn’t exactly flat. The Indigo Mare does its best though. There's an elevator, ramps are strategically placed, and the public areas, including the pool area, feel quite accessible. They even had a room labeled accessible with wider doors and grab bars. Now, I don't use a wheelchair myself, but I saw plenty of people using wheelchairs out and about. If this is a primary need, and you want it all flat, flat, flat, I'd call the hotel directly and make SURE your needs are met in a specific room.
Wheelchair Accessible: The hotel is generally wheelchair accessible, and has ramps and elevators, but confirming directly with the hotel regarding specifics is highly recommended
Facilities for Disabled Guests: Again, hats off for the thoughtful touches. The front desk was helpful too, and they even have a dedicated concierge, which is just chef’s kiss for a bit of help!
Elevator: Makes life easier, especially with luggage and any mobility issues.
(Checking In, and the Pure Bliss of a Clean Room – Cleanliness & Convenience, Oh My!)
Check-in was a breeze. Contactless, even! (You know, safety first, and all that.) The hotel chain has a very professional feel. Plus, you're greeted with… a cold towel! Yes, a cold, scented towel. After a long flight and a bit of travel? Instant win.
- Cleanliness & Safety: Okay, this is where the Indigo Mare shines. I'm talking gleaming surfaces, hand sanitizer everywhere, and a general vibe of "we take this seriously."
- Anti-viral cleaning products: Good to know in these times.
- Daily disinfection in common areas: Reassuring.
- Hygiene certification: Check!
- Rooms sanitized between stays: Whew!
- Staff trained in safety protocol: Felt safe, for sure.
- Hand sanitizer Ubiquitous.
- Room sanitization opt-out available: Nice touch of personal choice.
- Rooms, Sweet Rooms: The room itself? Heaven.
- Free Wi-Fi: (Hallelujah!) In all rooms too! You know, for all those Insta-worthy sunsets.
- Air conditioning: Absolutely necessary.
- Blackout curtains: Sleep like a log.
- Balcony/Terrace: Essential for sundowners.
- Non-smoking rooms: (Thank you!) and though this is great, I saw designated smoking areas.
- In-room safe box: For your valuables, and your crippling fear of losing your passport.
- Coffee/tea maker: Crucial for serious caffeine addicts.
- Additional toilet: A real blessing.
- Bathrobes & Slippers: The ultimate in decadent relaxation.
- Daily housekeeping: My room was always spotless, and the staff were lovely.
- Wake-up service: Useful if you aren't a morning person.
- Extra long bed: A big plus (especially for tall people).
- Internet access – wireless: Worked flawlessly!
- Complimentary tea: Always welcome
- Complimentary tea and free bottled water: Good!
- Desk: For working (if you must).
- Hair dryer: Saved me the weight in my luggage.
- Ironing facilities: (Though I didn’t use them – let’s be honest, I’m on vacation).
- Laptop workspace A nice touch.
- Linens Pristine.
- Mini bar: Stocked with goodies (and temptation).
- Mirror: Definitely.
- On-demand movies: Perfect for a lazy night in.
- Private bathroom: Of course.
- Reading light: Useful.
- Refrigerator: For keeping those mini-bar beers cold.
- Satellite/cable channels: A good selection.
- Seating area: Comfortable.
- Separate shower/bathtub: Luxury!
- Slippers: Yes!
- Smoke detector: Safety first.
- Socket near the bed: Genius design!
- Soundproofing: Absolutely necessary.
- Telephone: (Not that I used it much).
- Toiletries Decent quality.
- Towels: Fluffy and plentiful.
- Umbrella: (Just in case, even though it didn't rain).
- Wi-Fi [free]: Thank you, Indigo Mare.
(Food, Glorious Food! – Dining & Drinking, Let's Get Down to Business)
Now, let’s talk about the food. Because honestly, a vacation isn't a vacation without delicious food. The Indigo Mare does not disappoint.
- Restaurants: There's a main restaurant offering a mix of international and regional dishes, plus a poolside bar and a snack bar.
- A la carte in restaurant: Fine dining option.
- Breakfast [buffet]: Glorious, sprawling, carb-tastic heaven. Think fresh pastries, omelets made to order, Greek yogurt with honey, the works!
- Breakfast service: Excellent.
- Buffet in restaurant: Always a winner for choice!
- Coffee/tea in restaurant: Essential.
- Happy hour: Cocktails by the pool at sunset? Yes, please!
- International cuisine in restaurant: Something for any palate.
- Poolside bar: The perfect spot for a midday Mythos beer.
- Restaurants: Choice aplenty.
- Room service [24-hour]: For those midnight cravings. Tempting.
- Salad in restaurant: For the slightly healthier among us.
- Snack bar: Burgers, etc.
- Vegetarian restaurant: For all those vegetarian options.
- Western breakfast: The best breakfast.
Now, here's a confession. I had a moment at breakfast one morning. Picture this: sunlight streaming through the windows, a plate piled high with bacon (yes, bacon!), and a tiny, almost imperceptible, tremor of regret for wearing such snug pants. The buffet was dangerously good. I may or may not have gone back for seconds (and thirds). But no judgment! It's vacation, after all!
And the drinks! The poolside bar makes a mean Mojito. (Tip: Order two. You'll thank me later.)
(Things to Do, or, How to Master the Art of Doing Absolutely Nothing – Ways to Relax & Fun Stuff)
Look, the Indigo Mare is all about relaxation.
- Body scrub This is vacation, after all.
- Body wrap Even more vacation.
- Fitness center: I looked at it. That's about as close as I got.
- Foot bath: Bliss.
- Gym/fitness: For those more disciplined than I.
- Massage: Amazing. Definitely book one. Or two. Or, just live there.
- Pool with view: Stunning.
- Sauna: Relaxing
- Spa: The ultimate in chill.
- Spa/sauna: The best place to be.
- Steamroom: Detoxifying.
- Swimming pool: The most
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into my chaotic Cretan adventure at the Indigo Mare Hotel. Forget those perfectly polished itineraries. This is the REAL DEAL, warts and all, sunburnt shoulders and all-inclusive cocktails galore. Prepare for a rollercoaster…
Day 1: Arriving Like a Drowned Rat (and Loving It)
Morning (or, What Felt Like Morning After 24 Hours of Travel): Touchdown in Heraklion. Let me tell you, navigating that airport? Absolute pandemonium. Think a flock of caffeinated pigeons trying to find a crumb of bread. Somehow, miraculously, I found my baggage (thank you, God, for the bright pink suitcase!) and wrestled a taxi driver into taking me to the Indigo Mare.
Afternoon: Arrived at the Indigo Mare. And WOW. The sea was THIS close (gesturing wildly). The hotel itself? Pretty. Standard hotel stuff - all white walls, a pool that screamed "Instagram me!" and the faint smell of chlorine and hope. I was ravenous, so I hit the buffet. The first plate? Disaster. I tried everything and it all ended up tasting like a spicy version of nothing. Feeling a deep pang of regret and the immediate compulsion to buy some chips at a restaurant by the pool.
Evening: The Sunset and the Sunburn: Spent the rest of the day by the pool which, of course, involved a valiant attempt at sunbathing (read: falling asleep and waking up looking like a lobster). But then…the sunset. Oh. My. God. The sky was exploding with oranges and pinks, the sea shimmered, and for five blissful minutes, I thought, "Yes. This is it." Later, I had that first truly delicious Greek salad. The tomatoes tasted like sunshine, feta like pure joy, and that simple meal was a revelation. Then I got delightfully tipsy on the house red. Bliss.
Day 2: Exploring Knossos (and Battling the Tourists)
Morning: Okay, so Knossos. The Minoan Palace. History, right? The whole reason I was in Greece. I signed up for a tour. Mistake number one. The guide. Lovely woman, clearly passionate, but also spoke at the speed of light, in a language that sounded like a swarm of bees wearing tweed jackets. I learned approximately 3% of anything. Still, the architecture was…impressive. Especially when I saw the tourists. So many tourists. It was like a human tide, and I was trying to swim against it. I felt completely overwhelmed, and had to retreat away from the crowds to a quiet section of the ruins to get a bit of peace.
Afternoon: Lunch at a taverna near Knossos. I ordered grilled octopus, which, I am embarrassed to admit, I previously thought was a mythical creature. Turns out, it’s delicious, especially with lemon juice and a view. I also saw a cat, which, if you know me, is the key to happiness.
Evening: Dinner, Disaster, and Delirium: Back at the hotel, I tried to get a massage. Booked and paid. Arrived on time. Nope. Apparently, there was some sort of scheduling SNAFU, and my appointment was mysteriously vanished. Major eye roll. Dinner was another buffet attempt. It was another attempt. The food was…fine. Later, I overdid it on the free cocktails. Let's just say I woke up with fuzzy memories of the hotel bar and a sudden, urgent need for a greasy pizza.
Day 3: Beach Day (or, The Sea, the Sand, and a Very Bad sunburn)
Morning: Beach day! Hallelujah! First, I walked to the nearby beach. Clear blue water, golden sand. I found a perfect spot, spread out my towel, and promptly fell asleep.
Afternoon (and the Beginning of the End): Woke up. Holy sunburn, Batman! I looked like a cooked lobster. But, the water was calling me. So, I took a dip. This part felt like a dream - warm, refreshing, completely worth it. I stayed in for hours, swimming and bobbing. Then. I attempted to order a cocktail from the beach bar and had trouble. The barman was charming, but my Greek wasn't getting me anywhere.
Evening: The Recovery Plan and a Moment of Truth: After my fiery sunburn and having to rely on the hotel's heavily-chlorinated pool rather than the beautiful beaches, I decided my sunburn was completely worth it. After applying copious amounts of aloe vera. Dinner was simple: a Greek yogurt with honey (which was heavenly) and an early night. I sat on my balcony, listening to the waves, and finally, everything aligned. I felt happy.
Day 4: Departure (and the Hope for a Return)
Morning: Last breakfast at the buffet (still questionable, even after all those days). Walked to the beach one last time. Feeling sad that my holiday was ending.
Afternoon: Last walk by the pool. Last coffee (and it was actually a good one). It was a bittersweet goodbye. The Indigo Mare, with all its beautiful imperfections.
Evening: Taxi to Heraklion airport (again, the chaos!). The feeling of "This is it, freedom!" was mixed with sadness.
Quirks, Observations, and General Ramblings:
- Food: The food in Crete is generally amazing, but the hotel buffet is a gamble. Prepare to experiment! And embrace the gyro. You will crave it.
- The Locals: Cretans are friendly, but they don't put up with your nonsense. Learn a few basic Greek phrases! It goes a long way (plus, it's fun). But the ones in the beach bar? Some of the most kind to me.
- The Heat: It's hot. Like, really hot. Bring a hat, bring SPF, and make peace with being a sweaty mess.
- The Cats: Seriously, everywhere! Beautiful, graceful, and slightly aloof. I loved them.
- The All-Inclusive: Worth it for convenience, but be prepared for the potential for food fatigue.
- The Verdict: Crete stole a piece of my heart. It wasn't always perfect (ahem, sunburn), but it was vibrant, real, and utterly unforgettable. Will I go back? Absolutely. I already had my next holiday.
So, there you have it: my utterly unglamorous, slightly messy, completely honest account of Crete. Go. Explore. Embrace the chaos. And don't forget the aloe vera!
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Escape to Paradise: Indigo Mare Hotel - Crete's Hidden Gem... Or Is It?
Okay, spill. What's the *real* deal with the Indigo Mare? Seriously. Is it actually paradise?
Alright, alright. Let's be real. Paradise? Well, it depends on your definition of paradise. If your version involves pristine beaches, unlimited cocktails, and being waited on hand and foot… maybe dial back your expectations a *smidge*. Indigo Mare is more… authentically Cretan. Think less manufactured perfection and more… raw beauty mixed with a healthy dose of Cretan charm. Which, let me tell you, can be a *wild* ride.
I’d say… it’s *Paradise-adjacent*. Mostly because the views from pretty much every room? Jaw-dropping. Especially at sunset. Honestly, my first night there, I just stood on my balcony staring out at the Aegean, totally speechless. My partner, however, was already aggressively trying to connect to the Wi-Fi. Balance, you know?
The food. Tell me about the food. I live to eat (and drink copious amounts of wine).
Okay, the food. Okay, the food. This is where things get… interesting. The hotel restaurant, bless its heart, isn't Michelin-star material. Let's just say the presentation is… rustic. Think "homemade" which, in Crete, often translates to "deliciously messy."
But the *flavors*! Oh, the flavors. They’re amazing. Seriously, the Greek salad? Fresh, bursting with sunshine, and probably the best I've ever eaten. The local cheeses? Divine. And the grilled octopus? Okay, picture this: I’m not a huge octopus person. Never have been. But at Indigo Mare? I devoured it. Ate the whole thing. My partner, who *loves* octopus, was utterly horrified. He didn't get a bite! Oops. Sorry, honey.
Pro tip: Head into the nearby village for dinner a few times too. Seriously, the tavernas there are like stepping back in time. Home-cooked, authentic Cretan food. You will *not* regret it. And the local wine? It’s… plentiful. And cheap. Win-win.
The rooms! Are they actually luxurious? Or just "clean and functional"?
Right, the rooms. Let's be candid. Luxurious? Now, that’s a strong word. "Clean and functional" is probably closer to the truth. But, and this is a BIG but… they're comfortable. And they have *those views*. Seriously, you wake up to the ocean every morning. It’s impossible to be grumpy with that view. Unless, like me, you’re a total coffee snob and the in-room coffee situation is… well, let's just say it's an adventure. I ended up becoming best friends with the local coffee shop. They made *proper* espresso. And their pastries? Kill me now.
My room's balcony was slightly… wobbly. Not a deal-breaker, but it definitely added to the "rustic charm." And the air conditioning? Oh, it worked… *eventually*. It took a bit of coaxing. And a stern talking-to. But hey, that's part of the experience, right? Embrace the imperfections!
What about the beach? Is it all sun, sea, and sand?
The beach! The *beach*! Okay, here’s a confession: I am a beach snob. I like soft, white sand. And crystal-clear water. And… well, I like to be able to walk into the sea without tripping over rocks. The beach at Indigo Mare is… a bit more rugged. Think pebbles, some bigger rocks, and water that's absolutely gorgeous but… you know… not *perfectly* clear all the time.
My husband, who’s basically a walking, talking Golden Retriever, loved it. Immediately jumped in, started splashing around like a maniac. Me? I took a deep breath, did the slow, careful shuffle into the water, and then promptly twisted my ankle on something. (Probably a rock. Let's be real.) But once I was in? Bliss. The water is unbelievably clear and the sea is so blue. The beach itself is pretty empty, which is a massive win. You can actually spread out and relax, which is a rare treat these days. And, you know, the view! Still, pack some water shoes.
The staff? Friendly? Helpful? Or a bit "lost in translation?"
The staff. This is the real heart of the place. They’re amazing. They might not all speak perfect English (my Greek is… nonexistent, so I'm in no position to judge). But they're genuinely lovely. Kind, helpful, and always smiling. They’ll go out of their way to make you feel comfortable, even if it involves frantic hand gestures and Google Translate. One morning, I got a terrible headache. The woman at reception, bless her, brought me some local herbs and a bottle of water. She didn’t even speak much English, but her kindness transcended any language barrier. I just about cried. It made me feel really at home.
There was one guy, though. I think he was the barman. Always humming some tune, and always made me the strongest (and, sometimes, slightly erratic) cocktails I’ve ever had. Good times.
Is it kid-friendly? Because, you know, tiny humans.
Kid-friendly? Well, that depends on *your* definition of kid-friendly. There's no dedicated kids' club or anything like that. But the pool is a decent size, and the kids running around seemed to be having a blast. The vibe is pretty relaxed, so the little ones have plenty of space to run around and play without being overly scrutinized. The food isn't specifically designed for kids, but there are plenty of options. Plus, there’s that irresistible pool.
Honestly, it seemed like a good place *for* kids, but more importantly, a good place *with* kids. Everyone was pretty chill, and nobody seemed bothered by the usual kid-related chaos. Which, if you have kids, you know is a huge bonus. The Cretans in general love kids, so you'll probably be greeted with smiles and maybe even a free scoop of ice cream. Now, where's that travel agent...
Okay, hit me with a final verdict. Would you go back?
Okay, final verdict. Would I go back? Absolutely. In a heartbeat. Because despite the slightly wobbly balconies, the sometimes-challenging Wi-Fi, and the "rustic" food presentation, Indigo Mare is… special. It’s authentic. It’s beautiful. It’s relaxing (eventually, after you've unwound from the stress of modern life). And it’s filled with genuine Cretan charm. It's not a polished, cookie-cutter resort. And, forFind Your Perfect Stay
