Marilena Hotel, Crete

This beach hotel is just a short walk from the popular sandy beach of Amoudara and a ten-minute drive from the city centre of Heraklion. Guests can spend sunny afternoons lounging on the beach or by the hotel's inviting outdoor pool, or head into the city to see its Venetian fortress, city walls and old harbour and to visit its outstanding museums. The archaeological site of Knossos is also well worth a visit, just 20 minutes away by car.The hotel's guest rooms are light and airy, each with a balcony or terrace, satellite television and mini fridge in addition to a private en suite bathroom. Guests can sunbathe in the palm tree garden, play a game of billiards or table tennis, and dine on traditional Cretan as well as international dishes in the restaurant. The hotel also offers free Wi-Fi and onsite parking, making this an ideal base for those who wish to spend a holiday exploring the island by car.