Tucked into a picturesque hillside overlooking a private beach, Rosewood Blue Palace will be a seaside oasis of culture, history and heartfelt hospitality
The birthplace of Europe, as told by Greek mythology, never fails to hit the spot. With stunning beaches, breathtaking mountainscapes and delicious local cuisine all packed onto an island, Crete has plenty to offer beyond ancient history, making it an easy case for anyone to visit at any time of the year.
Honeymooners and well-heeled folks will make their way to Crete’s eastern end, where the Phāea Blue, previously known as the Blue Palace, is home to. But this 2026, the family-run hotel, owned by Phāea (Golf Residences S.A.), will begin a new chapter as Rosewood Blue Palace, marking Rosewood Hotels & Resorts‘ grand entrance into Greece.
Nestled between the small fishing village of Plaka and the elegant port of Elounda, Rosewood Blue Palace will be every guest’s seaside oasis of culture, history and heartfelt hospitality. A comprehensive renovation, informed by Cretan tradition and identity, will feature the work of K-Studio, the same acclaimed Grecian firm behind the breathtaking Mandarin Oriental Costa Navarino and Manna in Arcadia.
There will be 154 rooms and suites, 85 of which featuring a private pool for those who want elevated seclusion. Guests without such a luxury can dip into one of the three outdoor pools, each boasting panoramic deep-blue ocean views. The property, after all, aims to serve as a luxury wellness escape, and no one should leave without experiencing the Asaya, Rosewood’s holistic well-being concept, or one of the hydrotherapy treatments.
Appetites are also well-catered for. The resort’s six restaurants and bars, designed by London-based interior designer Afroditi Krassa, include an all-day restaurant that champions local produce, a beach club and bar with views of the stunning Spinalonga Island.
“Through two decades of dedication, Blue Palace has been our heart’s endeavour, our family’s legacy, and a testament to the true soul of Crete… We could not have found a better partner than Rosewood… for Blue Palace’s next chapter” said Agapi and Costantza Sbokou, co-CEOs, Phāea. “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.”
Featured photo by Rosewood Hotels & Resorts
