Chania, Crete — June 15, 2025 — Global hospitality leader JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 iconic hotel brands, has officially made its Greek debut with the opening of the JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa. This luxurious new property, nestled on the sun-kissed shores of Marathi in Chania, introduces an elevated level of Mediterranean hospitality and wellness-focused experiences to one of Greece’s most beloved islands.
Marking a significant milestone for the brand, the resort is JW Marriott’s first Mediterranean beachfront property, seamlessly blending elegant design, ecological consciousness, and authentic Cretan culture. Situated across 100 acres of unspoiled coastline overlooking the sparkling Aegean Sea, the new resort features 160 meticulously designed rooms, suites, and villas, many with private pools and panoramic sea views.
Bruce Rohr, Vice President and Global Brand Leader of JW Marriott, celebrated the launch by stating, “The opening of JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa marks a milestone moment for the brand with its entrance into Greece. This extraordinary property captures the essence of the JW Marriott brand—warm service, serene spaces, and deep connection to place.”
JW Marriott Architecture in Harmony with Crete’s Natural Splendor
Designed by renowned Athens-based architecture studio Block722, the resort sets a new standard in sustainable luxury. The property was constructed with a deep respect for Crete’s landscape, incorporating planted roofs, groves of olive and carob trees, and abundant use of local marble and natural wood. This approach fosters a strong connection between the built environment and the surrounding nature.
Guest accommodations are adorned in a calm, earthy palette inspired by the Mediterranean—terracotta, olive, stone, and sand. Large windows invite natural light and offer sweeping views of the coastline, while handcrafted ceramics and soft sculptural lighting subtly reference Cretan heritage with modern finesse.
From its geothermal heating and solar energy systems to gray water reuse for irrigation, the resort’s construction and operations underscore JW Marriott’s commitment to sustainability without compromising luxury.
A Gastronomic Celebration of Cretan Flavors in JW Marriott kitchen
Dining at JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa is a culinary journey through Greece and the Mediterranean. The resort features six distinct restaurants and lounges, each showcasing fresh local ingredients and seasonal flavors. The resort’s JW Garden—a signature concept across JW Marriott hotels—grows herbs and vegetables like oregano, thyme, and capers, which are infused into both dishes and craft cocktails.
Leading the charge is ANOEE, a fire-grill restaurant helmed by celebrated Cretan chef Manolis Papoutsakis, who draws from centuries-old island cooking techniques. Õnalos offers elevated sea-to-table fare with the freshest Aegean catch, while Cuccagna delivers contemporary Italian comfort food. Fayi presents a convivial Mediterranean shared-plates concept.
Guests can unwind at Suncti by the Pool or Eēxis, two lounge-style spaces offering cocktails and light cuisine. Notably, JW Marriott has partnered with Line Athens, ranked No. 6 in The World’s 50 Best Bars, to curate a bespoke mixology program blending modern techniques with Cretan botanicals and JW Garden herbs.
Adding to its uniqueness, the resort is home to Europe’s first JW Market, a combined café and boutique offering locally sourced artisanal goods and wellness-focused snacks—a contemporary take on Greek philoxenia.
Immersive Wellness and Mindful Experiences
The ANOSEAS Spa is the heart of the wellness offerings, merging ancient Cretan healing rituals with modern therapy practices. The spa features five treatment rooms, hydrotherapy amenities, and a dedicated beauty suite. Complementing this are four infinity-style swimming pools, a sea-facing yoga deck, and a fully equipped gym, designed to support relaxation and rejuvenation.
Families will find a thoughtfully curated offering as well. The Phestos Den, powered by Worldwide Kids, provides younger guests with cultural explorations, creative workshops, and nature-based activities. Children can explore a mini herb garden or enjoy open-air storytelling sessions under Cretan skies.
Outside the resort, JW Marriott Crete offers customized cultural and sea-based excursions, including visits to nearby monasteries, archaeological ruins, and secluded beaches—highlighting the rich legacy and natural wonders of the island.
A Strategic Addition to Greece’s Luxury Tourism Landscape
The arrival of JW Marriott on Crete reflects the growing demand for high-end, culturally immersive travel experiences in Greece. With its prime location near Chania, a city known for its Venetian harbor, historic old town, and proximity to world-class beaches like Seitan Limania and Elafonissi, the resort is well-positioned to attract discerning travelers from across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.
The property also supports Greece’s national strategy for sustainable tourism development, promoting eco-conscious travel while delivering on the high standards associated with international luxury hospitality brands.
