InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has opened its inaugural property in the Greek Islands, InterContinental Crete.

The 199-key property is within walking distance of the coastal city of Agios Nikolaos, and an hour from the island’s capital, Heraklion and the Heraklion airport.

Amenities of InterContinental Crete include two outdoor infinity pools overlooking Mirabello Bay, three Mediterranean-inspired restaurants, a nature-inspired wellness center, and various family-friendly facilities. The hotel offers a selection of guestrooms, most complete with private plunge pools and many with interconnecting capabilities.

Nikolaos Iliadis, general manager of InterContinental Crete said: “As we open the doors to InterContinental Crete, we are proud to introduce both InterContinental and IHG to the Greek Islands. InterContinental Crete celebrates the newly reimagined InterContinental brand evolution and brings to life a range of new initiatives for the modern luxury traveler. We are thrilled to set a new standard for luxury hospitality in the Greek isles as we connect guests with our culture through cutting-edge technology, innovative design, and the exceptional talents of our diverse team members at InterContinental Crete.”

Design details and highlights of InterContinental Crete include:

• An original sculpture in the lobby that represents a hybrid between the Sphinx and Minotaur – two icons of the island’s ancient history.
• An original work reflective of branches and lungs stretches vertically behind the reception, symbolizing life and vitality.
• Three Greek eateries – Zeus, Knossos, and Minoan – helmed by Michelin-starred chef consultant, Nikos Roussos. Roussos has been awarded with two Michelin stars and today is the executive chef / co-owner of esteemed modern Greek restaurants in London. Committed to modern Greek food and seasonality, he has created menus featuring elegant comfort dishes that reflect the Cretan culinary heritage using handpicked local ingredients.
• The Aegeo Spa offers several traditional and one-of-a-kind treatments including a Cretan massage infused with local olive oil, a Saffron infused anti-aging face and neck massage, and an antioxidant-rich cryotherapy treatment. A hammam, sauna, steam room, indoor pool and relaxation area complement the Spa’s four treatment rooms, two of which are double for couples to take treatments together. A fully equipped gym is also available.

Each of the resort’s 199 guestrooms and suites evoke a sense of serenity and elegance through interiors that harmoniously blend crisp contemporary linens and soft furnishings with organic-inspired elements and traditional Cretan influences. The Classic and Premium rooms boast private plunge pools, balconies, coffee-making facilities, walk-in showers, and luxury toiletries. For a Cretan home-away-from-home, guests can select from a range of spacious suites featuring super king beds, furnished balconies offering sea views, walk-in showers, and comfortable added sofa beds.

Bringing to life the Insider Expertise of InterContinental Crete is The Concierge, on hand to facilitate cultural exploration by introducing guests to in-the-know discoveries and bespoke experiences such as excursions to the island’s archaeological sites and traditional villages, natural gorges, small vineyards, and olive groves.