October 2026 — Rethymno, Crete

There is something rather special about combining a favourite pastime with a beautiful Mediterranean setting, good company and the chance to discover somewhere new. Our October bridge holiday in Rethymno, Crete, brought all these ingredients together for a wonderful escape filled with cards, conversation and Cretan charm.

Bridge with a Mediterranean flavour

With more than 50 bridge-playing guests joining us, there was a wonderfully sociable atmosphere throughout the holiday. Our programme offered plenty of opportunities to play, improve and compete, with Swiss Pairs, Swiss Teams, a Teams competition and our Championship Pairs Finals, alongside morning sessions and engaging bridge seminars.

Whether concentrating on a challenging hand, celebrating a good result or catching up with friends over a drink, bridge provided the perfect centrepiece for a holiday shared with like-minded people.

Congratulations to all our prize-winners: Sally & Terry Stuttard, winners of the Championship Pairs; Angela & Ray Ashleigh, winners of the Swiss Pairs; Cindy Woods & Sandra Fenton, runners-up in the Swiss Pairs; Lesley & Paul Sweet, the highest ascenders across the two Swiss Pairs events; and Helen Nightingale & Bill Mowatt, alongside Andrew Bingley & Lynda Grundy, the winning team in the Swiss Teams event!  Prizes were presented by Colin Simcox, the Tournament Director.

Discovering the delights of Crete

Our home for the holiday was Rethymno, a charming coastal town where traditional Greek character meets the relaxed pleasures of a seaside escape. The beach and promenade were close by, while the atmospheric old harbour, winding lanes, inviting cafés and welcoming restaurants offered plenty to explore.

One of the highlights was our included excursion to Chania. With a knowledgeable and entertaining guide, we enjoyed spectacular coastal views, fascinating glimpses into Crete's history and time to wander around the beautiful harbour and picturesque old town. There was ample opportunity to browse the shops, discover a favourite café or settle down to a leisurely Greek lunch.

For those keen to explore further, Rethymno itself offered plenty of opportunities for independent outings, while local tours made it easy to discover more of the island.

Sunshine, friendship and a little indulgence

October can be a lovely time to visit Crete, and we enjoyed blue skies, sunshine and the refreshing Mediterranean breeze. The hotel provided a comfortable base, with swimming pools, a choice of places to relax and a tempting buffet selection to start and end the day.

Above all, it was the company that made the holiday memorable. A shared enthusiasm for bridge brings people together, but the friendships, laughter and conversations away from the table are just as much a part of the experience.

If you enjoy good bridge, discovering new places and spending time with friendly, like-minded people, a Bridge Collection holiday could be just the escape you are looking for.

Join us on a future bridge holiday and combine your love of the game with sunshine, sightseeing and wonderful company.

From Louise,
I came at the last to my first bridge collection holiday. On the first bridge free morning I took up the offer to go on an organised walk to La Corbiere lighthouse approximately 4 miles from our lovely hotel. Barry Watts our bridge Director had planned the walk along scenic country roads and the old railway track and came equipped with water, sun cream and BINOCULARS.  I was fortunate to have his knowledge imparted “one to one” on sailing around the Channel Islands the harbours, lighthouses, the rocks and tides. 
It was a glorious autumn day and when we arrived at the lighthouse it was impossible to reach by foot because the tide was just turning and the causeway was under water. He assured us, if we patiently waited we would soon be able to walk over.
What spectacular views
Thank you Barry for your company and a memorable walk
Louise Jowett