A new kind of Greek retreat has arrived on the island’s wild west. Tella Thera, set above Kissamos Bay, blends sculptural architecture with serious wellness and a food philosophy that reads both local and future‑minded. Open mid‑July 2025, it sits within the Design Hotels family under the Marriott Bonvoy umbrella—yet feels resolutely independent in spirit.
Why it matters now
Tella Thera speaks the language of future primitivism: buildings that hug the land, materials with grain and soul, and spaces that slow your pulse. The mood is stillness, not spectacle—an antidote to crowded beach scenes, with nature doing the talking.
Design that disappears into the hillside
Suites are partly underground, tucked into the slope for privacy and natural cooling. Planted rooftops—olive and Mediterranean species—blend the architecture into the grove and boost biodiversity. Inside, soft curves, lime‑wash tones and arched openings frame sea and olive views.
Space to breathe
This is a suite‑led place with generous terraces and tactile details. Expect earth tones, unprocessed wood, and light that lingers late. The overall effect is calm, not performative.
Wellness with intent
The spa revolves around deeper rest: a magnesium indoor pool, steam and sauna, plus chromotherapy. Mornings often begin with yoga; afternoons drift into slow swims and long shadows.
Plant‑forward dining, low‑waste thinking
At Anemoia, the resort’s restaurant and bar, menus follow the seasons. Produce is local, the approach is plant‑forward, and by‑products return as syrups, ferments and garnishes. It tastes of Crete first, trends second.
The setting: Kissamos, between olive groves and cobalt water
The hotel sits above Kissamos Bay in western Crete, close to hiking paths and boat trips, with headline beaches a drive away. For independent confirmation of the opening and positioning, see this concise opening news.
At a glance (save this)
- Season 2025: mid‑July to early November
- Location: Kissamos, western Crete (nearest airport: CHQ)
- Rooms: suite‑led inventory; many with private outdoor space
- Wellness: magnesium pool • steam • sauna • chromotherapy • yoga
- Dining: plant‑forward restaurant + bar
- Design: semi‑subterranean suites • planted rooftops • bioclimatic thinking
- Good to know: large terraces; EV charging; pets on request
How to plan your stay
When to go. Late August into September brings calmer roads and warm seas.
Room strategy. Ask for west‑facing light and extra terrace privacy.
Daily rhythm. Morning yoga, late swim, dinner at Anemoia.
Explore. Alternate a day in with a day out: trails above Kissamos, then a beach run next day.
FAQ
What is Tella Thera Crete?
A nature‑inspired retreat in Kissamos that pairs sculptural design with wellness and sustainability. See the official Design Hotels listing for a concise overview.
When did it open?
Mid‑July 2025; the current season runs to early November.
What’s special about the design?
Partly underground suites with planted rooftops in a future‑primitivist style that blends into the olive groves.
Does it have a magnesium pool?
Yes—alongside steam, sauna and chromotherapy in the spa.
How big are the suites?
Generous by island standards, with private outdoor space designed for slow mornings and long evenings.