Crete’s idyllic ancient town of Rethymno is set to pair its rich history with a pair of hot new hotel openings. Grecotel Hotels & Resorts will launch its latest hotels on the north of the island, coinciding with the British Airways’ latest Greece route, which opens up ahead of the summer season in April.
The White Palace by Grecotel – The Cretan Riviera is being pitched to savvy travellers with a focus of Cretan hospitality. The aesthetic is an all-familiar Greek white and aqua, but complemented by a variety of mosaics, fabrics and sea-mist green accents.
The 166-room hotel boasts 64 bungalows and 33 suites, surrounded by a plethora of mature flora, including palms, bougainvillea and jasmine.
The Yali Exclusive Collection of suites is a first for the brand, naming waterfront ‘Yali’ suites from the Greek word “yalos” - meaning seaside. Guests will be able to walk directly from the terrace of a Yali Luxe suite into a private infinity pool.
The second hotel is a chic boutique. Caramel by Grecotel – Rethymnon, has a more eccentric aesthetic on the island’s longest beachfront, just minutes from the town’s Venetian harbour.
The resort’s spacious villas are replete with antiques and designer furniture, and the 69 suites are interconnected via tile-covered pathways and private courtyards.