Two hotels in Crete among the 19 best hotels in Greece for 2025: An overview of the top travel destinations.
Two hotels in Crete among the 19 best hotels in Greece for 2025
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In 2025, Conde Nast Traveller, a prominent travel magazine, highlighted some of the finest hotels in Greece. Among these, Crete holds a significant place, with two top hotels earning recognition. The selected hotels represent a blend of luxury and boutique styles, showcasing authentic experiences that immerse visitors in the local culture.
The selection process involved editors who have first-hand experience with the hotels. Their assessment criteria included factors such as stunning design, prime locations, outstanding service, and adherence to sustainability practices.
Notable Hotels in Crete
Crete boasts luxurious accommodations that provide an exceptional experience for travellers. The following hotels made it to the prestigious list:
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Domes of Elounda:: Renowned for its luxurious amenities and breathtaking views of Spinalonga Island, this resort offers private beach access and stunning villas perfect for relaxation. Guests can engage in various activities, including water sports and gourmet dining.
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Acro Wellness Suites: Located in a serene environment, Acro Wellness Suites focus on wellness and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy spa treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind, along with wellness retreats that promote a balanced lifestyle.
These hotels reflect the charm of Crete while fostering an ambiance of luxury. With offerings that cater to diverse traveller preferences, these establishments provide not just accommodation but extraordinary experiences.
Key Features
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Stunning Locations: Positioned near beautiful beaches, both hotels offer easy access to Cretan coastline beauty, making them ideal spots for sunbathing or enjoying sea activities.
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Exceptional Service: Staff at these hotels strive to provide a high level of service, ensuring guests feel welcome and cared for throughout their stay.
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Elegant Design: Each hotel features a unique architectural style that resonates with the surrounding landscape, creating a harmonious balance between nature and luxury.
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Gastronomy: Culinary experiences stand out in both hotels, with restaurants that showcase local Cretan dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Guests are often treated to unique gastronomic creations that reflect the region’s heritage.
Activities and Experiences
Guests in Crete can indulge in a variety of activities designed to enhance their holiday:
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Water Sports: The beautiful beaches offer numerous water sports opportunities, from jet skiing to paddleboarding.
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Excursions: Travellers can participate in guided tours of local attractions, including historical sites and natural wonders, enriching their understanding of Cretan culture.
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Shopping: The surrounding areas offer shops featuring local crafts, making it the perfect place to find unique souvenirs and gifts.
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Relaxation and Wellness: Both hotels feature wellness centres and spa services, allowing guests to unwind and rejuvenate. Treatments include massages and beauty therapies aimed at promoting relaxation.
Beach and Relaxation
The beautiful beaches of Crete create a perfect setting for relaxation. Visitors can lounge by the sea, enjoying the sound of waves and the sun’s warmth. Both hotels provide beach access, making it convenient for guests to enjoy sandy shores and refreshing waters.
Cultural Highlights
Crete is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its rich history. Visitors can explore ancient ruins and museums that tell the story of the island’s past. Engaging with local culture through food, music, and art can enhance the travel experience.
These are the most profitable companies in tourism in Greece
The latest analysis from ICAP CRIF reveals the top 30 hotel companies and the 11 most profitable car rental firms in Greece for 2023. This information has been made available through an exclusive report by ‘Money and Tourism’. The rankings are based on financial reports, particularly focusing on Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation, and Amortisation (EBITDA).
Among the prominent families within Greek tourism featured in the report are the Andreadis, Vassilakis, Konstantinakopoulos, Sapounakis (Ανδρεάδη, Βασιλάκη, Κωνσταντακόπουλου, Σαπουνάκη), and others. The analysis presents a comprehensive overview of both individual companies and corporate groups.
Key Financial Insights
In 2023, the combined revenue from these leading tourism companies reached €1.531 billion, a significant increase from €1.296 billion in 2022. However, while revenues rose, profits before taxes fell from €507 million in 2022 to €398 million in 2023. This decline in profits highlights the challenges faced by these entities, particularly due to rising operational costs and tax burdens.
Year |
Revenue (€ million) |
Profit Before Tax (€ million) |
|---|---|---|
2022 |
1,296 |
507 |
2023 |
1,531 |
398 |
Simultaneously, the equity of these hotel firms also saw a notable increase. In the car rental sector, the 11 most profitable companies generated revenue of €1.06 billion, compared to €864 million in the previous year, with profits amounting to €169 million, slightly down from €174 million in 2022.
Top Hotel Companies
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ASTIR PALACE – Leading in profitability, it is known for its iconic properties. A notable aspect of its profits stems from real estate ventures, particularly land sales for residential development.
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SANI – The Sani brand, associated with the Andreadis family and backed by a Singaporean state fund, holds the second position in profitability. Its diversification into various sectors also bolsters its financial standing.
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FURAMA – This company has shown strong performance and continues to expand its market reach.
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POSEIDON – With strategic investments, Poseidon has made its mark as one of the top companies in the tourism sector.
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MEDITERRANEAN – Known for its high-quality services and offerings, this company consistently ranks among the leaders.
Other Notable Companies
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LINDOS – This organisation has leveraged the charm of Greek destinations to create a successful hospitality business.
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KOS – With a focus on customer satisfaction, KOS has carved out a significant share in the tourism market.
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KAPPA – Kappa continues to perform well, maintaining strong relations with partners and clients alike.
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GREEK HOLIDAY – A name synonymous with quality, this company has made inroads into various aspects of tourism.
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HORIZON – Horizon has expanded its portfolio, showcasing a mixture of luxury and conventional accommodation options.
Industry Challenges
The tourism industry in Greece has been experiencing significant pressure due to rising operational costs. Factors such as increased taxes and a surge in service fees have severely impacted profit margins. Recent forecasts suggest that these trends may persist, resulting in further challenges for companies in the upcoming years.
Noteworthy Developments
The report from ICAP CRIF emphasises the need for companies to adapt their business strategies to address these challenges effectively.
- Increased costs are driving many companies to explore new revenue streams.
- Innovation and sustainability are becoming more critical as consumer preferences shift.
- Companies that embrace these changes are more likely to thrive in the competitive landscape of Greek tourism.
Car Rental Sector Highlights
The report also includes insights into the car rental segment, where the leading companies have demonstrated impressive revenue growth. The total revenue for the top 11 firms reached €1.06 billion, indicating a continued demand for vehicle rentals.
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CARS4YOU – A frontrunner in the sector, well-known for its extensive fleet and customer-oriented services.
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ON THE ROAD – This company thrives by focusing on premium services that enhance customer experiences.
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ECO CAR RENTAL – Prioritising sustainability, this firm has gained traction among environmentally conscious consumers.
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CITY CARS – Known for its competitive pricing and variety of vehicles, City Cars remains a popular choice.
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FASTTRACK – It stands out for its quick service and a user-friendly booking process.
Future Outlook
The projections for the tourism sector in Greece suggest a cautious optimism. While recent losses in profitability highlight ongoing challenges, the growth in revenue indicates resilience among these key players. Adaptation and innovation will be crucial for sustained success, especially as the economic landscape continues to evolve.
As the industry moves forward, stakeholders must keep a close eye on emerging trends and consumer behaviours. Those who prioritise adaptability are better positioned to navigate potential shifts in the market landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features contribute to two Cretan hotels being among Greece’s top 19 for 2025?
The two hotels from Crete that made the prestigious list for 2025 stand out due to their exceptional service, unique architecture, and stunning locations. Their commitment to providing a memorable experience for guests plays a significant role in their recognition.
How have customer reviews shaped the ranking of Cretan hotels in the 2025 listing?
Guest feedback has a strong impact on how hotels are evaluated. Positive reviews highlighting excellent service, cleanliness, and unique offerings help to elevate these hotels’ standings, making them more appealing to potential guests.
What facilities do the highly-rated Cretan hotels provide to excel in the 2025 rankings?
The top-rated Cretan hotels typically offer a range of amenities such as luxurious pools, fine dining options, wellness centres, and breathtaking views. These features enhance the overall guest experience and contribute to their high rankings.
Can you describe the distinctive experiences that resulted in these Cretan hotels being included in Greece’s top list for 2025?
Unique experiences, such as personalised services, local cultural activities, and exclusive culinary offerings, set these hotels apart. They focus on creating memorable moments that resonate with guests, making their stays one-of-a-kind.
What eco-friendly initiatives have the leading Cretan hotels implemented to achieve the 2025 accolades?
Many top Cretan hotels are embracing sustainable practices, including energy-efficient systems, waste reduction programmes, and sourcing local products. These efforts show a commitment to environmental responsibility while providing a unique experience for guests.
Are there any new hospitality trends reflected in the Cretan hotels featured in Greece’s best hotels for 2025?
The Cretan hotels set to be among the best in 2025 showcase trends such as a focus on wellness, the integration of digital technology for enhanced guest experiences, and a commitment to sustainable tourism.
