This Greek hotel offers private overwater bungalows – and it’s way cheaper than the Maldives

It's got great reviews too

A fancy hotel resort in Greece has been dubbed the new Maldives - and rooms are available for a much cheaper price. The Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa in Crete was described as "a Maldives experience in the Mediterranean Sea" by one hotel guest on Tripadvisor -  no doubt because of the mini, Maldives-style, over-water villas which are available to stay in. It is a five-star, adults-only resort which considers itself  "a heaven on earth, a temple of relaxation and soul recreation". https://www.instagram.com/p/CfEPe3AMf9q/ The hotel's website explains how the over-water bungalows add an "extra dimension" to a holiday at the resort. "Decorated with wood and glass, in tropical scenery, guests have direct access down from each sunbathing deck to the pool," it says, "The bathroom consist of a walk-in shower and double sinks." [caption id="attachment_350319" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dealing with the heat wouldn't be quite so bad here (Image: Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa)[/caption] The price of one of these over-water bungalows depends on the time of year that you visit but one night of luxury starts at £299 in winter. Special villas will set you back £648 per night in the school holidays or £341 in mid-October. While it's still not exactly a bargain if you're working with a budget, it's significantly cheaper than the cost of some similar stays found in the Maldives. Flights to Greece from the UK are pretty much guaranteed to be cheaper, and travel time will of course be much quicker. Those really hoping to treat themselves to a luxurious trip can also opt for the 'Grand Over Water Bungalow', equipped with a jacuzzi, private pool and premium swim up. The resort has earned itself an 'excellent' rating on Tripadvisor, with an overall score of 4.5 out of 5. One reviewer said the private overwater bungalow was "worth every euro for the pool alone". Another said: "There is no doubt that the service, food and cleanliness will bring us back here every year." Related links:

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