Nana Royal Hotel Crete: Reviews, Location & What to Expect

The Nana Royal Premium Resort & Spa, which joined the Nana Hotels family in 2025 after a full rebranding from Knossos Royal, operates as a premium all-inclusive property on Crete’s northern coast. Situated on a private Blue Flag beach in Anissaras, the resort aims to balance family-friendly amenities with a relaxed, upscale atmosphere. This guide offers a verified overview of its location, facilities, and guest reception, drawing on official sources and current reviews.

Last checked: 2026-08-01

Official name: Nana Royal Premium Resort & Spa · Location: Hersonissos peninsula, northern Crete (Anissaras area) · Setting: Gardens overlooking Crete’s north coast, private beach · Accommodation: Bungalow complex with furnished balconies/verandas · Facilities: Multiple snack bars, restaurants, bars, waterpark (per related searches) · Atmosphere: Refined, relaxed, unhurried (per official Facebook)

Is Nana Royal Crete open?

Yes, the Nana Royal Premium Resort & Spa is open and actively hosting guests. TripAdvisor listings show reviews and photos from the current 2026 season, confirming regular operations. The resort successfully transitioned from the Knossos Royal brand in 2025 without interrupting services.

Where is Nana Royal hotel?

The Nana Royal Premium Resort & Spa is located on the Hersonissos peninsula in the Anissaras area, just east of Heraklion, the region’s capital. The specific address places it roughly 2 kilometres from the centre of Hersonissos and about 20 kilometres from Heraklion Airport (HER).

Is Nana Royal Resort in the Anissaras Heraklion area?

Yes, the resort is situated in the Anissaras area, which is administratively part of the Hersonissos municipality in the regional unit of Heraklion. This positioning places it close to Crete’s main airport while remaining in a quieter coastal enclave.

What are people saying about Nana Royal Crete on Tripadvisor?

Guest reviews on TripAdvisor rate the Nana Royal Premium Resort & Spa around 5.0 out of 5 bubbles, a strong score for a large-scale resort. Multiple reviewers consistently praise the spaciousness of the rooms, the variety and quality of the food and drinks, and the attentiveness of the staff. One TripAdvisor guest described the resort as “sheer luxury, peace and just the perfect retreat.” Another reviewer highlighted a “wonderful stay” with perfect food and beautiful grounds. The quiet atmosphere despite the resort’s size is a recurring compliment across recent feedback. For insights into how other beach resorts handle guest feedback, see Tasia Maris Beach Hotel & Spa Reviews: What Guests Really Say.

“Just wow! Sheer luxury, peace and just the perfect retreat. Do not miss this hotel.”

– TripAdvisor guest review

“Wonderful Stay – everything was perfect, from the food to the staff and the beautiful grounds.”

– TripAdvisor guest review

Where not to stay in Crete?

Where to avoid staying in Crete?

While Crete offers diverse accommodation options, travelers seeking the peaceful environment found at Nana Royal’s Anissaras setting may prefer to avoid the busiest stretches of Malia or the central Hersonissos strip, which are known for vibrant nightlife and higher tourist density. For those prioritizing tranquility, the quieter coasts of Elounda or the western regions near Chania typically offer a more relaxed pace. The resort’s deliberate positioning outside the main nightlife areas makes it a strong base for guests who want access to excursions without constant noise.

Where do the rich stay in Crete?

Upscale travellers in Crete often gravitate towards the Elounda area, known for its high-end resorts and private villas, or the historic waterfronts of Chania town. The Hersonissos peninsula, particularly the Anissaras stretch where Nana Royal is located, also hosts several premium properties that compete in the luxury segment while providing a family-oriented balance. The resort itself offers a Wellness Club spanning 1,400 square meters, a private Blue Flag beach, and multiple à la carte dining options, which align with expectations for a luxury stay.

“Nana Royal joined Nana Hotels family in 2025, previously known as Knossos Royal with the captivating landscape and the experience of Nana hotels brings Premium All inclusive resorts to new levels.”

– Nana Hotels group statement

Is it safe to walk around Crete at night?

How safe is Crete as a family destination?

Crete maintains a strong reputation as a safe destination for all types of travellers, including families. Walking in resort areas like Anissaras and Hersonissos at night is generally considered safe, with well-lit paths and a visible tourist police presence in season. The Nana Royal resort itself is designed as a self-contained environment, with family-oriented facilities including a kids’ pool, waterslide area, playgrounds, and a kids’ club, allowing parents to feel comfortable relaxing within the property.

Nana Royal Premium Resort & Spa: Key Specs

Pros & Cons

Best For

Families prioritizing convenience:The kids’ club, dedicated children’s pool with waterslides, and multiple playgrounds make it a strong choice for parents seeking a self-contained vacation where children are actively entertained.

Couples seeking a refined beach holiday: The adults-only bar, quiet atmosphere despite the resort’s size, and direct access to the Blue Flag beach create an environment suitable for relaxation without strict adult-only policies.

Travelers wanting a private beach experience: The resort’s private 350-metre beach with sun loungers and towels provided avoids the crowded public beaches typical of the Hersonissos area.

Pricing & What to Expect

As a 5-star premium all-inclusive resort, the Nana Royal commands a higher price point than standard 4-star all-inclusives in the Hersonissos area. Specific rates depend heavily on the season, room category (suite vs. villa), and the tour operator package selected. Official pricing is best obtained directly through the Nana Hotels group site or authorized booking partners.

Alternatives to Consider

• Nana Princess Suites & Villas – A more exclusive, smaller property also under the Nana Hotels banner, offering private pools and a quieter couples-focused atmosphere nearby.
• Aldemar Royal Mare – An established competitor in the Hersonissos area with a strong reputation for thalassotherapy and family amenities, though not as recently renovated as Nana Royal.
• Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas – A highly upscale option on the eastern coast of Crete, ideal for luxury travellers willing to trade airport proximity for a more secluded, elite setting.
• For a detailed comparison with other premium Mediterranean options, read our Hotel Xoria Deluxe Review: All-Inclusive Luxury in Alanya Turkey.

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