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Uncover a different kind of masterpiece – where every corner tells a story, every meal is a celebration, and the Aegean laps at your doorstep like a living canvas. Here, Crete’s soul is woven through sculpted gardens, slow pleasures, and architecture that invites the outside in.
Tucked away in the southern part of the Aegean Sea, and known as the birthplace of Zeus, sits the largest island in Greece: Crete. A naturally commanding Mediterranean muse, it speaks of rich mythology and legendary archaeological sites without being loud. Sister to the islands of Mykonos and Santorini, Crete shares their way of life. It’s felt through authentic locals, abundant olive groves and restful pace. The majestic island holds hidden gems, one being the Minos Beach Art Hotel in Agios Nikolaos.
Debuted in 1963, Minos Beach Art Hotel is the original luxurious design hotel on the island. The private peninsula is set apart by its magnificent connection to art, starring international artists, curated by the G. & A. Mamidakis Foundation. The open-air sculpture garden holds over 70 installations, each with its own story and sacredly placed around every corner of the retreat. They not only honour the beauty of art but include it as part of the culture and hospitality. Each large creation is a destination in itself and is blended naturally into the green landscapes.
The accommodation takes the form of white concrete-style bungalows, double-storey private villas and suites, all with minimalistic interiors. The villas have their own freshwater private pool surrounded by tall palm trees, whereas the bungalows are nestled directly on the beach; either way, you wake up to pristine blue waters, just steps away from your bed. Inside, the spaces are adorned with carefully curated amenities that reflect the seamless flow between nature and living. The layout blurs the boundaries between the indoors and out, inviting guests to feel suspended between earth and air, a philosophy that defines the essence of the retreat.
While the art is the main character of the stay, no Greek escape is complete without the thrill of water sports. Guests are encouraged to slip beneath the surface and uncover the coastal beauty through diving, canoeing, and windsurfing directly from the hotel’s private beach. Let time slow as you lounge on a sun bed, sipping on a frappé as you soak in the golden sun. The Ananea Wellness by Aegeo Spas offers nature-based treatments using lavender and olive oil, strategically curated to nourish the body and calm the mind. For enriching the soul, indulge in rejuvenating yoga sessions by the sea that are synchronised with the sound of the waves to guide the mind into harmony.
Built around the idea of togetherness, Cretan hospitality is tasted through the astonishing Terpsis restaurant. Situated on an open-air terrace overlooking Mirabello Bay, dining unfolds slowly with succulent fresh-caught fish, traditional mezze and olive-oil-drizzled dishes. Each ingredient is locally curated from the island’s soil, a practice that celebrates the heart of soul of the island. For something more modern, La Bouillabaisse Restaurant by chef Kyriakos Mylonas showcases a blend of tradition and innovation, allowing guests to embark on a journey of gastronomy. Its dishes are visually artistic and flavours creatively expressed with Mediterranean spices. This dining experience is further elevated with carefully curated wine selections that echo the story of each dish.
This coastal escape lingers in the memory long after you leave, like a brush stroke on canvas. It leaves a mark through a place shaped by Crete’s rich heritage, art, architecture, and quietly curated moments.
