Wellbeing-focused resort Pnoé Breathing Life has opened its doors on the northern coast of Crete. Part of the new Greek-owned MK Hotel Collection, the resort’s name translates as ‘the breath of life’, in line with its philosophy of rejuvenating and relaxing guests.
Pnoé Breathing Life is the result of renovations and expansion of a hotel built in 1968, where the influence of Greek Modernism was apparent in the architecture – an influence that has been continued into the new resort. A large open pergola welcomes guests into the hotel, overlooking the common area and swimming pool. Modernist elements like round pillars and a marble wall have also been incorporated into the design as a tribute to the hotel’s previous era.
Designed by Cube Concept following a brief to create and “oasis of calm”, the new resort comprises 60 suites – all with private pools – that have been brought to life to reflect the island’s natural beauty, using subdued colour palettes and materials like wood and stone throughout. Additionally, each communal area has its own distinct identity – from warm earthy tones in restaurant Thymises, to the lush greenery that adorns the Uranos rooftop bar.
Thymises is a convivial, relaxed spot designed to take guests on a tour of Cretan cuisine, while Uranos serves up a bespoke range of cocktails created by mixologist Aris Antonakakis. Meanwhile, over at Anάsa, guests can choose from speciality meat cuts from Dry Aging cabinets, and enjoy a selection of cigars and shisha flavours.
Naturally, with wellness a key focus at Pnoé Breathing Life, health and fitness facilities come in abundance, where guests will have access to programmes including hyperbaric oxygen therapy, Zerobody and breathwork therapy. In addition to a fitness space, guests are able to visit the waterfalls of the wet area, Himalayan salt stones, a wood fired sauna or the hotel’s ice fall.
