Rosewood Hotels & Resorts is making its debut in Greece, opening Rosewood Blue Palace in Crete.  

A reincarnation of an existing resort, Crete’s Blue Palace will reopen as part of the Rosewood portfolio in 2025, following redesign. Nestled between the small fishing village of Plaka and the elegant port of Elounda, Rosewood Blue Palace will be seamlessly integrated into its surroundings, offering an oasis that connects guests to Crete’s culture and history.  

Owned by Phāea Resorts, the property will comprise 154 rooms and suites – 85 of which will be accompanied by private pools. Grecian firm K-Studio are at the helm of interior design, realising a vision informed by Cretan traditions. Taking care of the food and beverage venues, Greek-born, London-based Afroditi Krassa has been tapped to create the interiors of the resort’s six restaurants and bars. 

The resort will feature an Asaya spa – Rosewood’s signature – alongside a fitness centre, movement studio, yoga pavilion and dedicated areas for guests to explore hydrotherapy treatments. Three outdoor pools meanwhile will offer panoramic ocean views. 

“With a compelling landscape that has fascinated explorers for centuries, we are delighted to mark our entrance into Greece with this stunning resort,” said Sonia Cheng, Chief Executive Officer of Rosewood Hotel Group. “Crete is an ideal location for creating meaningful connections that bring our guests closer to the soul of the destination and takes them far beyond their expectations.” 

Agapi and Constanza Sbokou, Co-Chief Executive Officers, Phāea Resorts add: “Through two decades of dedication, Blue Palace has been our heart’s endeavor, our family’s legacy, and a testament to the true soul of Crete – a history marked by exceptional service and attention to detail. We could not have found a better partner than Rosewood, known for their mindful approach, timeless elegance and extraordinary experiences, for Blue Palace’s next chapter. 

“Rosewood’s commitment to preserving the essence of each destination aligns seamlessly with our vision for the resort, ensuring that every guest is enveloped in the warmth of genuine hospitality. Entrusting Blue Palace’s legacy to Rosewood Hotels & Resorts allows us to embark on a new journey, nurturing our vision with Phāea.” 

Rosewood Blue Palace will add to the group’s existing collection of European properties, including Rosewood London, Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel, Rosewood Vienna and Rosewood Munich, with Rosewood Amsterdam and Rosewood Schloss Fuschl set to open over the next year.