Where kids take the lead: A family summer like no other in Crete

“Mum, I planted a tree and gave it a Greek name!” At Candia Park Village, kids aren’t just along for the ride — they’re the stars of the show. This summer, in celebration of International Family Day (15 May), Bluegr Hotels & Resorts invites guests to rediscover childhood magic at its beloved seaside retreat — a resort that doesn’t just welcome kids but places them at the heart of every story. Through its much-loved “7 Days of Joy” programme and an ever-evolving Mini Blues Kids Club, Candia Park Village becomes a playground for imagination, creativity and cultural connection — all set in a living Cretan village brought to life.

A Home Away From Home

Set along 65,000 sqm of coastline on Crete’s stunning Mirabello Bay, Candia Park Village resembles a traditional Cretan village, featuring colourful neighbourhoods, a central square, and an iconic clock tower. Families gather here each day for games, storytelling and sun-drenched memories. The resort offers 222 spacious apartments and suites with terraces, balconies, separate living areas and kitchenettes - providing a home away from home - as well as three pools and a private Blue-flag, sandy beach. On the water's edge, The Serenity Suites offer complete privacy and tranquillity for families with panoramic sea views, an open-plan design and luxury amenities to suit every need of travelling families.

Mini Blues Kids Club & 7 Days of Joy

Guided by a team of dedicated educators, children aged 4–12 dive into meaningful, themed experiences that bring Bluegr’s pillars — environment, cultural heritage, solidarity, and sustainable education — to life. Mirroring the limitless imagination of young minds, activities unfold across the entire resort, turning Candia Park Village into a wonderland for tiny travellers. As part of the 7 Days of Joy programme, kids explore through hands-on workshops such as Mediterranean cooking classes, tree planting, beach clean-ups, and arts & crafts. They delve into the rich tapestry of Greek mythology and folklore, stepping into the roles of gods and heroes, and enjoy fun, educational activities like pirate-themed hat making, treasure hunts, theatre workshops, and themed adventure days. On May 15th, in celebration of International Family Day, the resort’s central square comes alive with traditional “tsouvalodromies” — joyful sack races that unite generations in friendly, sun-soaked competition.

Calendar of Fun & Fitness

Candia Park Village presents a daily array of activities catering to all ages. Families can enjoy movie nights under the stars, family cooking classes, and cultural evenings, from lively Latin nights to traditional Cretan celebrations with live music. Evenings wrap up with karaoke, a Kids Disco, and endless laughter. Wellness seekers can recharge with yoga sessions — both group and private — while children enjoy their own gentle kids’ yoga classes. The resort also features tennis courts, personal training, and rentable Blue Bikes with maps to help families explore nearby hidden gems. For parents in need of downtime, the Aegeo Spa offers a world of relaxation, with treatments using natural ingredients from across Greece — and babysitting services for those moments of peaceful escape.

Family Adventures & Excursions

Guests are encouraged to explore Crete’s natural beauty and cultural treasures, with plenty of adventures just beyond Candia Park Village. Families can enjoy day trips to the local Aquarium, the Plush Splash water park, or the UNESCO-protected Vai Palm Forest, where palm-lined trails lead to a golden beach. Curious minds can wander the traditional village of Kritsa or explore the island’s history at the Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy Amazonas Park, while culture lovers can visit the mythical Diktaean Cave or take a boat trip to the island of Spinalonga, rich in Venetian and Ottoman history. For a taste of local tradition, wine and olive oil tours offer a glimpse into Crete’s culinary heritage. Water lovers can dive into scuba lessons, windsurfing, paddleboarding, sea cycling, or banana boating — or set sail on a family fishing trip in Mirabello Bay.

Dining by the Sea

Featuring locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and family-friendly menus, dining at Candia Park Village is both delightful and hassle-free. Menus are tailored to children’s tastes and needs, with dedicated food stations serving Greek and international favourites — all enjoyed with views of shimmering blue waters. New for 2025, the beloved Agapi Restaurant – traditionally open for buffet-style breakfast and dinner – will now also open for lunch with a fresh à la carte Mediterranean menu, offering families even more opportunities to gather and reconnect over good food. The resort also features a Mini Market for any forgotten family essentials, and a gelateria with handmade ice cream — a daily ritual for kids (and grown-ups) alike.

108 EUR (approx. £92 per night) for the lead-in rate for Candia Park Village. For more information or to book, please visit www.candiapark.com.