Crete Reading Holiday

Imagine a serene escape to the luxurious Elounda Palm Hotel in Crete, where relaxation and rejuvenation take center stage. Spend your days basking in the sun by the sparkling pool or wandering along pristine beaches, and your evenings unwinding in elegant surroundings. Enjoy quiet moments of reflection, savour delicious local cuisine, and connect with like-minded travellers who share your love of tranquility and comfort. Set against the stunning Mediterranean landscape, this is the perfect place to leave the everyday behind and lose yourself in your reading.

For the first five evenings, we’ll gather over dinner to socialise and share thoughtful discussions. Our Book Club meeting will focus on The Island by Victoria Hislop — a moving historical novel set in Crete that explores love, family, and resilience against the haunting backdrop of Spinalonga’s leper colony.

A highlight of the trip is a boat excursion to the historic island of Spinalonga itself — the real-life setting of our book. After this immersive experience, the final two days of your holiday are unhosted, giving you the freedom to relax by the pool, unwind on the beach, or explore the local area at your own pace.

In addition to our Book Club dinners, we’ll enjoy a special “A Book I Love” evening, where each guest can share a personal favourite — inspiring lively conversation and new literary discoveries.

Books in Places creates exceptional reading retreats and literary escapes for book lovers, offering opportunities to connect with fellow readers and travellers who share your passions. Most guests join us solo, and single occupancy is the standard. However, twin rooms are available for those who prefer to share the experience with a friend or partner.

Your trip organiser is Paul Wright, or one of his experienced team – With over six years of experience running large book clubs in Bristol and Exeter, Paul has cultivated a deep understanding of what makes a great gathering. Since 2023, he has organised Books in Places trips, blending his love of literature and travel. the focus for the trip is on creating relaxed and sociable experiences where like-minded people can connect over books they love. 

Nestled on Crete’s northeastern coast, the 4* Elounda Palm Hotel provides a luxurious base to explore this enchanting region. Overlooking the sparkling waters of the Aegean Sea, the hotel features elegant accommodations, serene swimming pools, a private beach, a spa and wellness centre, and fully equipped fitness facilities. Guests can enjoy on-site restaurants and bars and water sports. Located in Elounda, a picturesque fishing village with stunning coves and historic sites, the hotel perfectly blends relaxation, culinary delights, and adventure, promising an unforgettable stay immersed in natural beauty and authentic Greek charm.

Climate Crisis Resilience Fee, sanctioned by the Greek State, was implemented in 2024. If you are staying at Elounda Palm this will cost €5 per person per night and is payable to the hotel.

The Classic Garden View Rooms at Elounda Palm Hotel & Suites offer a peaceful retreat overlooking lush gardens. Elegantly decorated, they feature a queen or twin beds, sofa bed, private balcony or terrace, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, mini-fridge, and marble bathroom with shower.

Upgrades to classic sea view rooms at an extra £90 per night.