Tella Thera—whose name stems from Tellus, the ancient Roman goddess of the Earth, and the Greek words “therós” (summer) and “therismós” (harvest)—is a new, nature-inspired resort located in northwest Crete.According to DesignHotels—of which Tella Thera is a member—“the surrounding landscape is more than just a setting; it is an essential and respected part of every guest experience.” What does this mean? For starters, guests can expect partially subterranean suites with private pools, “biomorphically shaped” architecture and décor, planted rooftop terraces, a holistic spa, and a zero-waste restaurant.Athens-based design studio Pieris.Architects and landscape architect Karolos Chanikian were tasked with creating an aesthetic where buildings seemingly disappear into the surroundings. In addition, suites utilize biophilic designs that reportedly optimize energy efficiency and carbon absorption.
Tella Thera has just 20 suites—17 of which have private plunge pools—plus a Signature Villa. Each suite has at least 50 square metres of indoor space and 90 square metres of outdoor space with views of the Aegean Sea. The standout Signature Villa, which is powered entirely by onsite solar panels, has three en-suite bedrooms, a large living room, a kitchen, two dedicated parking spots with an EV charger, and a 220-square-metre private garden terrace with an infinity pool.As far as public spaces, there is a reception lounge with an outdoor rooftop yoga and meditation space, an underground spa, a beauty salon, and an indoor/outdoor gym. The spa focuses on holistic wellness journeys with facilities including a magnesium pool, chromotherapy showers, a steam room and a sauna. Guests can also enjoy outdoor nature-based healing experiences, plus yoga and Pilates sessions.
On the dining side, Anemoia Restaurant serves seasonal, locally inspired and plant-forward cuisine with a focus on sustainability. Here, the lunch and dinner focuses on sharing (in true Greek fashion), with family-style platters served alongside à la carte options. Pretty cool: All suppliers are found within a 20-kilometre radius of the property, and the hotel also produces its own olive oil.The heart of the hotel is its pool, surrounded by daybeds and loungers, which are further surrounded by “the true soul of the property:” The Grove. This (aptly named) grove of olive trees has meandering paths, meditative clearings, and rooftop terraces for yoga or quiet gatherings.
About the Destination
Good to know: Tella Thera is located in Kissamos Bay, less than a 10-minute drive from the centre of Kissamos and nine kilometres from Kolymbari. Kissamos is known for beaches like Balos, Falassarna, and Elafoniss. It was once a Roman city and is now home to archaeological sites, a local museum, and hidden tavernas.Tella Thera is a one-hour drive from Chania International Airport and a two-hour drive from Heraklion International Airport.
