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Greek hotel boasts overwater bungalows that are far cheaper than the Maldives

Stella Island resort in Crete, Greece, has been dubbed "a Maldives experience in the Mediterranean sea. thanks to its overwater bungalows and swim up rooms at a fraction of the cost

[The over water bungalows have their own decks]

The over water bungalows have their own decks(Image: Stella Island Resort)

Thousands of Brits hope one day to head to the Maldives the ultimate luxury holiday destination with white sands, tropical weather and overwater villas. However, flying out the the Indian Ocean atolls can cost a fortune so why not opt for Greece or even Albania instead?

In all, Maldives hotels can cost thousands of pounds each night, plus extra for flights and seaplanes or boats to the island putting it out of reach for most UK tourists. Luckily, overwater bungalows are becoming more popular around the world and can be found at resorts even close by in Europe.

One hotel in nearby Crete has been described as "a Maldives experience in the Mediterranean sea and we can see why thanks to its luxurious bungalows which sit over the pool at a fraction of the cost of jetting off to the atolls of the Maldives.

READ MORE: Breathtaking European 'Maldives' boast 32C weather in March, 50p pints and 5.50 rooms

READ MORE: Sun-soaked beach is 'one of Europe's most beautiful' with 7.50pp rooms and 22 flights

Thankfully, Crete is only a few hours away by plane from the UK and flights cost from a tiny 44 for a return so travel will also be less stressful.

[Stella Island Resort ]

Stella Island Resort (Image: Stella Island Resort)

So, those looking to sink into blue waters, relax in the sunshine and swim up to their room can finally afford to do so. The bungalows are decorated in wood and glass with tropical scenery and a private deck for each villa. That way you can enjoy privacy and your own space to chow down of Lay's crisps and a cold Fanta, or beer, after a mid-afternoon swim.

Crete is pretty good value for Brits too if you don't opt for all all-inclusive option you can buy a pint for as cheaply as 2.54, according to PintPrice. However, we're pretty sure you won't want to leave your hotel if you opt for an overwater bungalow.

The Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa in Greece, looks just as amazing as the Maldives and for a lot less money which is important during the current financial crisis. he 225-room adults only hotel boasts overwater bungalows, which looks like the ones youd see in the Indian Ocean.

Guests can sunbathe beside a giant pool, on the stylish decks or at a private beach on Cretes northern coast. Alternatively, holidaymakers can enjoy dinner at one of the resorts five restaurants.

[Stella Island Resortin Crete, Greece, looks seriously dreamy]

Stella Island Resortin Crete, Greece, looks seriously dreamy(Image: Stella Island Resort)

These include a party garden, traditional Cretan food, an Asian restaurant, cocktail cabana and an all day lounge. Theres also a spa that offers manicures, massages, facials and couples treatments. Plus, holidaymakers can throw themselves into scuba diving, mountain biking, horse riding, trekking and sports if theyre after an adventure.

Anyone who wants to leave the resort can head on an excursion to the archaeological site of Knossos where the dynasty of Minos rules. Youll be able to spot the Royal Villa, Great Palace, Tomb Sanctuary and learn more about the myth of the Labyrinth and the Minotaur. There are also plenty of museums, beaches and nightlife nearby for you to get stuck into whatever your vibe.

[Ksamil is one of the most popular beaches in Albania ]

Ksamil is one of the most popular beaches in Albania (Image: Getty Images)

Basic rooms with a pool view at the hotel start from 189 per night on booking.com though this is not for the overwater option. Guests who want to sleep on one of the Maldives style overwater bungalows can do so from 485 per night. There are a number of other accommodation types on site with various prices including island villas, bungalows, jacuzzi rooms and pool rooms with steam baths.

[The resort is well rated online]

The resort is well rated online(Image: Stella Island Resort)

One person review online said: "My girlfriend and I stayed at Stella Island for eight nights, and we cannot fault it. We had a swim up room, which was ideal because we didn't have to wake up early to get the sun beds and a waitress would take the order for your drinks and bring them over. The beds were comfy and the shower was really powerful.

"Definitely a MUST to go all inclusive as this covers all your food and drink all night for room service the Kimata buffet in the evening outstanding! Overall the hotel is absolutely beautiful and the architecture was unbelievable, would definitely come back here."

[The rooms have a tropical vibe]

The rooms have a tropical vibe(Image: Stella Island Resort)

Another added: "This was our second visit to Stella Island. After visiting last year, we absolutely had to return. The entire resort is stunning, even better than it looks on social media. It is incredibly peaceful and ideal for a relaxing break. The rooms are gorgeous. We chose a luxury swim up room ."

While a third person commented: "Maldives meets Crete! The resort itself is beautiful. No detail was spared when building this place."

If the cost of a stay at Stella Islands is just that bit too high for you then there are other options within Europe. Ksamil in Albania boasts sparkling blue sea and white sand beaches and has been dubbed a "Maldives-style" paradise by fans. You can stay in the stunning Albanian Riviera incredibly cheaply with rooms from 5.50pp per night.

*All prices were correct at the time of publication but are subject to change and adjustment at any time.

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