Nestled on Elounda's shores, this upscale resort offers refined bungalows and villas with stunning sea views, plus gourmet dining, a spa, and a private beach.
Plaka 720 53, Greece Get directions
"Crete’s Phāea Blue Palace opens in May 2024 after a complete reinvention that has split the original 250-room Blue Palace hotel in two." - Nicola Chilton
"Crete’s Blue Palace has a strong sense of place. Set on a lucid pebble beach, this family-run property has more authenticity than all the pre-fab looking resorts along the Elounda coastline combined. There’s a wooden fishing boat to putter across to Spinalonga island (a freshy minted UNESCO World Heritage site); an open-air cinema on the beach; and lamb spit-roast over a bonfire, accompanied by a mournful Cretan lyre. Take in more cretan traditions with a sunset sail on the hotel's wooden Caique while sharing some evening drinks. (For those looking for a more mod Crete setting, the Blue Palace's sustainably-minded sister resort, Cretan Malia Park, was anointed a Design Hotel in late 2019, after a radical makeover combining local stone and ceramics with textiles by of-the-moment designers like LRNCE and House of Hackney.) Doubles from $250, marriott.com"
"Agapi Sbokou, CEO of Phāea Resorts, designed the restaurant concepts at Blue Palace Elounda around Crete’s UNESCO-protected cuisine." - Lane Nieset
"Whether you’re looking to stay in a bungalow, a suite or a villa, Blue Palace has it all. Boasting breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and Spinalonga Island, this property was designed for those who treasure their private space. If you’re craving a little bit of adventure, immerse yourself in Crete’s heritage and tradition by going on a private cruise, which will take you to ancient Minoan ruins, secluded beaches, traditional villages and more."
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