Rosewood Blue Palace - New Hotel in Crete, Greece

A spectacular setting between Plaka and Elounda

Nestled on a sun-drenched hillside between the charming fishing village of Plaka and the cosmopolitan port of Elounda, the resort overlooks the shimmering Gulf of Elounda with uninterrupted views toward the historic island of Spinalonga. This is a landscape that feels both cinematic and deeply authentic, where rugged mountains descend into crystalline waters and olive groves stretch toward the horizon. The setting offers a rare duality, serene and secluded, yet culturally rich, inviting guests to explore Crete’s layered heritage while remaining immersed in a tranquil seaside retreat.

A legacy reborn under Rosewood

Originally one of Crete’s most beloved resorts, Blue Palace enters a new era as part of the Rosewood portfolio, marking the brand’s debut in Greece. Owned by the visionary Greek hospitality group Phāea, the property is being thoughtfully reimagined to reflect Rosewood’s “A Sense of Place” philosophy. This transformation goes beyond renovation, it is a reinvention that honors the island’s identity while elevating every aspect of the guest experience. The result is a destination designed to foster meaningful connections, to culture, to history, and to the natural rhythms of the Mediterranean.

Architecture rooted in Cretan identity

The redesign is led by the acclaimed Greek architectural firm K-Studio, known for its ability to merge contemporary design with local heritage. The architecture embraces the natural topography, cascading gently down the hillside toward a private beach. Materials and forms draw inspiration from traditional Cretan villages, with textured stone, earthy tones, and organic lines that echo the surrounding landscape. Interiors feel both refined and grounded, creating a seamless dialogue between built environment and nature, where every space is infused with a quiet, understated elegance.

Rooms and suites with elevated privacy

The resort will feature 154 rooms and suites, thoughtfully designed to offer both comfort and a strong sense of place. Among them, 85 accommodations will include private pools, creating intimate sanctuaries that open onto sweeping sea views. Interiors are envisioned as serene retreats, where natural materials, soft neutral palettes, and artisanal details reflect the textures and tones of Crete itself. Each room is designed to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living, allowing light, sea air, and landscape to become integral elements of the experience.

A culinary journey shaped by design and destination

The culinary offering at Rosewood Blue Palace promises to be both diverse and immersive, with six restaurants and bars designed by Afroditi Krassa. Each venue will carry its own identity, from refined dining experiences to relaxed beachfront settings, all united by a commitment to local sourcing and seasonal ingredients. Guests can expect vibrant Mediterranean flavors, enhanced by produce from the resort’s organic garden, alongside panoramic views that elevate every meal into a sensory experience. The bar, overlooking Spinalonga, is set to become a destination in itself, where sunsets and signature cocktails define the rhythm of the evening.

A holistic wellness retreat overlooking the Aegean

Wellbeing lies at the heart of the experience, anchored by Asaya, Rosewood’s holistic wellness concept. Designed as a sanctuary for restoration and balance, the space will offer a comprehensive approach to health, combining modern therapies with ancient practices. Facilities include a fitness center, movement studio, yoga pavilion, and dedicated hydrotherapy areas. Beyond the spa, three outdoor pools, each with panoramic sea views, invite guests to unwind in a setting that feels both expansive and deeply calming. The entire resort becomes a place to reconnect, where body and mind are gently realigned with nature.

A new icon of Mediterranean living

Rosewood Blue Palace captures the enduring allure of Crete while introducing a new level of refinement and intentionality. It is a destination where history and contemporary luxury coexist effortlessly, where every detail is shaped by a deep respect for place. For travelers seeking an experience that is both elevated and authentic, this reimagined resort offers a compelling invitation to rediscover the Mediterranean in its most timeless form.

We love Rosewood Blue Palace for:

– Opening in late 2026
– 154 rooms and suites, including 85 with private pools
– A spectacular hillside setting overlooking Spinalonga Island
– Architecture by K-Studio inspired by Cretan heritage
– Six restaurants and bars designed by Afroditi Krassa
– An Asaya wellness sanctuary with panoramic Aegean views