In the sun-drenched embrace of the Aegean, a new sanctuary of serenity has emerged—JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa, a coastal masterpiece redefining eco-conscious luxury on Greece’s largest island. This marks JW Marriott’s first foray into Greece, and it does so not with spectacle, but with soul.
Spread across 100 pristine acres of unspoiled coastline near the beloved harbor town of Chania, this new Mediterranean hideaway is more than a resort it’s a sensory retreat that taps into the ancient rhythms of Crete while setting a bold new standard for mindful travel.
At the heart of the experience is design minimal, organic, yet unmistakably luxurious. Athens-based studio Block722 infused the space with thoughtful contrasts: modern architecture softened by planted rooftops, carob and olive groves, natural wood and marble, and open spaces that invite the outdoors in. Whether you’re inside one of the 160 rooms, suites, or villas, many complete with private pools and ocean-facing terraces, or gazing through expansive windows adorned with handcrafted Cretan ceramics, the Aegean is always within view and within reach.
But it’s not just the rooms where water meets the sky. The resort features four pools, including a tranquil adults-only pool and a lush main pool accented by a sunken lounge and surrounding greenery. The Anosea Spa offers a journey into Crete’s healing heritage, blending local rituals with modern hydrotherapy, while a state-of-the-art fitness center and sunlit yoga deck cater to movement and mindfulness.
Culinary artistry is at the resort’s core. With six distinct dining venues, each rooted in seasonal, local ingredients, the JW Marriott Crete showcases the island’s richness in flavor and culture.
At Anoee, Chef Manolis Papoutsakis masterfully works the open flame with Cretan tradition in mind. Õnalos delivers a refined sea-to-table concept, while Cuccagna indulges guests with Italian flair. For Mediterranean fare, head to Fayi, and for breezy cocktails and small bites, Suncti by the Pool and Eēxis bring casual luxury to life. The bar program crafted in collaboration with Line Athens, ranked No. 6 globally in 2024 features herbal infusions and botanicals plucked straight from the resort’s own gardens.
“This extraordinary property captures the essence of the JW Marriott brand—pairing warm, intuitive service with serene, thoughtfully designed spaces that invite guests to be present and truly connect”
— Bruce Rohr, Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott
Families are not forgotten. The Phestos Den Play Area ensures little explorers are just as captivated, while curated off-property excursions offer immersive cultural experiences and unforgettable sea voyages.
This isn’t just a vacation. It’s an invitation to slow down, to reconnect—with nature, with heritage, and with yourself. For the discerning traveler, JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa is a retreat made for more than escape it’s made for transformation.
