Fall in love with Crete as soon as you set foot on its abundant land. As Greece’s largest island, its rich tapestry of sandy beaches, rugged landscapes, Grecian treasures and white washed blue villages are sure to win your heart and leave you wanting more. From its wonderful Cretan cuisine, vibrant cities and Serengeti-esq sunsets - - make Crete a place that you’ll want to keep on returning to.
The Cretans generous spirit and hospitality make travelling alone easy, so why not join GoSingles and experience authentic Greece, where we'll promise to make your singles holiday a memorable one.
The full spectrum of beaches
Crete has got 650 miles of coastline to go around. The beaches in the Lassithi area, to the east of the island, are annexes to the cosmopolitan towns of Agios Nikolaos and Elounda. Here, sunbathers can mix stints on the sunbed with shopping sprees and long lunches in the squares. Further west, the Chania area teams Blue Flag beaches with an historical old town. While half of the Heraklion area’s visitors come here to live in the moment, the other half come to explore the past.
Historical sights
Crete’s timeline stretches back more than 4,000 years. In fact, the island is credited with being the birthplace of modern civilisation. Evidence for this claim can be found at the Palace of Knossos, in the Heraklion area – According to legend, the foundations of this Bronze Age city were filled with an inescapable labyrinth, which was guarded by a vicious Minotaur.
Our Resort - Gouves
Crete – Perfect for Solo Travellers
Set on Crete’s sun-drenched northern coast, Gouves is a charming seaside resort that perfectly blends relaxation, culture, and connection. Known for its golden beaches, friendly locals, and authentic Greek spirit, it’s a haven for solo travellers seeking both freedom and companionship.
With an all-inclusive experience, you’ll enjoy delicious meals and drinks throughout the day without a care in the world. Spend your days soaking up the sun, exploring nearby villages and historical treasures like Knossos and Heraklion, or joining optional group excursions. Evenings bring coastal sunsets, local tavernas, and easy-going social vibes — the ideal mix for solo travellers looking to unwind, explore, and connect.
One Holiday, Two Islands – Discover Santorini from Crete
A once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll never forget.
Make your GoSingles Crete escape even more extraordinary with a day trip to Santorini, Greece’s most iconic island. Just a short boat journey away, this optional excursion lets you experience the breathtaking beauty of two stunning islands in one unforgettable holiday.
DESPO HOTEL* * * ALL INCLUSIVE
Nestled in the charming seaside resort of Gouves on the northern coast of Crete, Despo Hotel offers a relaxed, warm base just 600 metres from a sandy beach. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and featuring a central swimming pool, this hotel creates the perfect balance of relaxation, local character, and community.
Why it’s perfect for solo travellers
At GoSingles, we get solo travel — freedom, flexibility, and connection. Here’s why Gouves and Despo Hotel are made for it:
- All-inclusive — meaning all meals and drinks are covered, so you can focus entirely on enjoying your holiday without budgeting worries. From poolside cocktails to authentic Greek dinners.
- Solo-Friendly Comfort: Enjoy your own DOUBLE / TWIN room. No need to compromise; you can have your own space. Peace and privacy when you want it.
- Safe & Welcoming Setting: Gouves is friendly, easy to get around, and filled with local tavernas, cafés, and shops. Perfect for exploring at your own pace.
- Relaxed Community Vibe: Enjoy the calm of the gardens or pool area, or join in with other guests in a friendly, relaxed environment. Have plenty of opportunities to mingle — poolside chats, group dinners, or casual evenings out.
- Local Character: Despo Hotel is family-run, traditional, and full of personality — it feels more like staying with friends than in a hotel.
Accommodation
The Despo Hotel offers 73 comfortable and traditionally styled rooms, providing a warm and welcoming stay for solo travellers. Each room features either a garden or landscape view, allowing you to relax in peaceful surroundings and soak up the Cretan charm. All rooms include a private balcony or terrace, perfect for enjoying your morning coffee or evening drink.
Every room is fully air-conditioned with individual climate control and includes:
- Private bathroom with shower
- Direct-dial telephone
- Mini fridge
- Safe deposit box
- Wi-Fi access
Please note: Air conditioning and safe deposit boxes are available at a small local charge.
Simple, bright, and comfortable, the rooms at Despo Hotel provide the perfect base to unwind after a day of sunshine, sightseeing, or socialising with fellow GoSingles guests.
Facilities
The Despo Hotel offers a great range of facilities designed to make your stay relaxing, social, and carefree — ideal for solo travellers who enjoy comfort and convenience in equal measure.
Enjoy free Wi-Fi in all public areas, including the lounge, main bar, pool bar, and around the swimming pool, so you can stay connected and share your holiday moments with ease. The reception area features cosy lounges and a welcoming lobby, perfect for meeting fellow guests or simply unwinding.
Outside, you’ll find a large freshwater swimming pool surrounded by sun terraces, with sunbeds and umbrellas available free of charge. The sandy beach is just 600 metres away, offering the perfect spot for sea swims or sunset walks.
When it comes to dining, all meals are served in the Main Restaurant, featuring:
- Breakfast: Continental buffet
- Lunch: Complete buffet service
- Dinner: Full buffet selection with a variety of local and international dishes
For All Inclusive drinks and light bites, head to the Pool Snack Bar for refreshments throughout the day or unwind in the Bar/Coffee Shop in the evening.
For a bit of fun and friendly competition, enjoy a game of table tennis or billiards (a small charge applies).
Whether you’re here to relax by the pool, socialise over dinner, or explore the Cretan coastline, Despo Hotel offers everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable solo holiday experience.
What is included in the tour
- Stay at 3* Despo Hotel
- Your own single occupancy en suite room
- All Inclusive - All meals & drinks included
- Flights from London Gatwick
- Flights from your local airport at a small supplement
- All Taxes & Surcharges
- Airport transfers
- Services of a GoSingles Rep on holiday
- Welcome get together
- Coordinated Singles only site-seeing and activities (Optional Extra)
- Meet other single, like-minded travellers who wish to socialise and make new friends
Flight Timings -
| Flights | Details | Time |
| Outward | London Gatwick to Heraklion | 16:50 - 22:45 |
| Return | Heraklion to London Gatwick | 23:45 - 01:45 (next day) |
Or below flight at supplement of £175
| Flights | Details | Time |
| Outward | London Gatwick to Heraklion | 07:15 - 13:10 |
| Return | Heraklion to London Gatwick | 13:55 - 16:10 |
Flight timings are approximate and may be subject to change
Price & Itinerary may be subject to change
Price excludes Tourist Tax of approximately Euro 5/ person/ day to be paid locally
🌞 What to Do in Gouves
Whether you’re here to chill, explore, or mix things up, Gouves has it all — and it’s the perfect base to discover the island of Crete.
Soak Up the SunRelax by the pool or wander down to the golden sandy beach, just 600 metres from the resort. Take a dip, catch a tan, and let the Aegean breeze do its thing.
Explore Crete’s TreasuresStep back in time at the Palace of Knossos, stroll through Heraklion’s Old Town, or come face-to-face with marine life at the impressive Cretaquarium, all within easy reach of Gouves. Further afield, discover Crete’s rugged mountains, charming hill villages, and hidden coves that make the island legendary.
Eat Like a LocalTuck into authentic Cretan cuisine at traditional tavernas — grilled octopus, dakos, local cheeses, and a shot of raki under the stars. Every meal is a reason to celebrate.
Join the FunYour GoSingles rep hosts optional excursions, scenic walks, and lively social evenings. Whether you’re after adventure or just good company, there’s always something going on.
Day Trips Worth TakingMake the most of your stay — hop on a day trip to Santorini for iconic whitewashed views and a double-island holiday to remember. One trip, two incredible destinations.
