The Greek islands are so paradisiacal that as long as we’re there, we’re content staying anywhere. A simple shack on the beach? Under the shade of an olive grove? Tucked in between two bright bougainvilleas? We’re in. But also, we’re completely joking, and there’s thankfully no need to rough it. The islands are full of lavish hotels that make taking a trip to the Hellenic Republic even more irresistible. The following four hotels are opening this year on the islands of Naxos, Therasia, Crete, and Corfu — and you’d better make a run for them. They are so gorgeous that we predict they’ll book up real fast.
The Laguna Coast Resort, Naxos
Naxos may not be the most well-known island in the Cyclades, but with the arrival of the Laguna Coast Resort on May 1, 2025, it’s likely to garner popularity.
The resort sits in the eastern part of the island on the Laguna Coast, an ecologically significant area that is receiving a lot of conservation effort. Situated between the Aegean Sea, the Laguna Lake, rugged hills, and a cedar forest, the property is the perfect place if you want to get a little more from your luxury vacation. Expect to spot migratory birds (including flamingos), unique flora, and bask in the history of the terrain. After all, this part of Naxos is the oldest known settlement and activity in the Central Aegean. So, as well as your bathing suit and sunscreen, don’t forget your binos and hiking boots.
The resort is on the small side, with only 21 suites and villas that can accommodate between three and 10 guests (for those who think that traveling with all their friends and family is a good idea). The accommodations offer a variety of views: forest, sea, hills – take your pick.
Amenities include two dining options: Raw Evo and Collatio Beach Bistro, both of which serve gourmet, local dishes. And if you prefer to eat outside of the resort, Collation Beach Bistro can even pack you a picnic basket (made from local reeds, no less). There’s also a unique open-air gym, so you can sweat your heart out with a view. While there’s no spa, the resort offers a wide array of experiences, including horse riding expeditions, snorkeling adventures, hiking and biking tours, cooking classes, and more. The property surrounds a shallow pool, giving the space a zen vibe. The decor throughout is very minimalist, with neutral colors and natural materials.
The Laguna Coast Resort is a seasonal establishment that is only open from May to October – but these are the best months to enjoy a heavy dose of Grecian sun.
The Duchess, Therasia
Very few travelers have ever heard of the Aegean island of Therasia, but everyone knows about its next-door neighbor, Santorini. The problem with Santorini is that because it is so famous, it’s overrun with tourists. Therasia does not have this problem. The island has a quiet and relaxed atmosphere for those who seek a tranquil stay. And with the arrival of The Duchess on the island in the spring of 2025, you’ll have the perfect place to retreat.
The property is located in the small village of Manolas, and offers sea views. Or, more precisely, views of the submerged Santorini caldera. Because the property is in a village, you have access to the local tavernas, restaurants, and bakeries – all the good stuff.
The Duchess is a luxury, adult-only hotel that consists of 12 suites only. While there are three different types of suites, all of them have a private outdoor area with views of the Aegean Sea. The architecture and decor of the establishment is in line with traditional Aegean homes, with curved, whitewashed walls, and touches of cobalt blue and earthy colors. The furnishings of the suites are plush and beautiful, yet minimalistic, letting the views do all the impressive work.
Amenities include a spa where you can enjoy massages, a restaurant serving Greek cuisine with locally sourced ingredients, and even a church. If you want to get married at The Duchess, you absolutely can. Of course, there are also a couple of bars and an outdoor pool. That said, the beach is very close by if you prefer wild swimming.
Télla Théra, Crete
Located along Kissamos Bay in northeastern Crete, Télla Théra is a sustainability-focused, luxury property, scheduled to open in July 2025. The hotel is set on a hill covered in olive trees, but the suites and villas on offer all have views of both the groves and the Aegean Sea – you don’t have to choose.
There are three types of suites and two types of villa available at Télla Théra. While the smallest suite can accommodate a maximum of three guests, the largest villa can welcome up to seven people. The largest of the villas also has an infinity pool. All the accommodations have a private terrace.
Télla Théra is not your average hotel. The property was carefully designed to reduce energy consumption throughout. A rooftop garden acts as a natural insulator, and the clever fenestration works to maximize natural ventilation and light. The property’s earthy and curvy look mimics a rock-hewn habitation and blends in very well with the surrounding scenery. The interior decor aligns with the exterior, with neutral colors, natural materials, and simple furnishings (many of them made locally.)
The on-site restaurant, Anemoia, serves plant-based dishes crafted with locally grown and seasonal ingredients. Better yet, Anemoia is a zero-waste restaurant. How’s that for a sustainability ethos? The hotel has also created small dining spaces throughout the property for those who want to have a more intimate experience in nature.
Amenities and services include an outdoor natural pool, a spa offering a variety of therapies and treatments, and outdoor yoga classes at dawn. Everything at Télla Théra was thought out for you to vacation and relax in a gentle, earth-friendly way.
Avali, Corfu
Avali is an all-inclusive, five-star resort scheduled to open in the summer of 2025 on the beautiful island of Corfu. The property is located south of Corfu Town on the eastern shore of the island. Avali is a waterfront property with a private beach and direct access to the Ionian Sea.
The luxury hotel consists of 76 rooms and suites able to accommodate between two and three guests each. While most of the rooms and suites offer sea views, a few of them feature mountain views instead – after all, the hills are beautiful and deserve a little attention, too. While all the rooms and suites are decorated and furnished in the same contemporary style, they are all tasteful. All of the accommodations have floor-to-ceiling windows and private outdoor spaces. And the best rooms have private pools.
Avali has plenty of food and drink options: two restaurants, one all-day food truck, and two bars. But there are more amenities. There’s an infinity pool, an outdoor gym, outdoor fitness classes (including yoga), and a spa for massages. For those who want to party the nights away, there are regularly scheduled evening events such as live music and beach parties.
The private beach is home to a watersports center equipped with SUPs, canoes, and kayaks that you can use to while away an afternoon in between sunbathing sessions.
FAQs:
Q: How many suites and villas are there at the Laguna Coast Resort in Naxos?
A: The Laguna Coast Resort consists of 21 suites and villas.
Q: Where is the island of Therasia located?
A: Therasia lies west of Santorini and forms part of the Cyclades Islands.
Q: How many guests can stay in Télla Théra’s largest villa?
A: Télla Théra’s largest villa can accommodate up to seven guests.
