You’ve probably seen the photos. That dizzying view of the Spinalonga fortress, the terra-cotta stone walls, and those private infinity pools that seem to spill right into the Mirabello Gulf. It's iconic. But if you’re trying to book a stay at the Blue Palace Resort Crete right now, things get kinda confusing.
The place is currently in the middle of a massive identity shift. For decades, it was the crown jewel of Marriott’s Luxury Collection on the island. Then, suddenly, it wasn't. If you search for it today, you'll find mentions of Phāea Blue Palace, Rosewood, and Marriott all fighting for space in the search results.
Honestly, here is the deal: the resort as we knew it has split. The larger part of the original estate is currently undergoing a deep, floor-to-ceiling renovation to become the Rosewood Blue Palace, set to debut in the summer of 2026. Meanwhile, a smaller, more intimate boutique version called Phāea Blue Palace is already open and running.
Why the Blue Palace Resort Crete is actually two things now
It’s a family affair. The Sbokou sisters, Agapi and Costantza, are second-generation Cretan hoteliers who took over the reins from their father. They decided to take the massive 251-room property and refine it.
The move to Rosewood is a big deal. It marks the brand's first entry into Greece. They aren't just swapping out the towels; they’ve hired K-Studio—the architects behind the stunning Mandarin Oriental Costa Navarino—to completely reimagine the vibe. We’re talking about a transition from "big luxury resort" to "high-end seaside sanctuary."
While that massive construction project hums along, the sisters kept a specific wing of the property to run independently. This is Phāea Blue Palace. It’s got about 47 bungalows and suites. It’s smaller. More quiet. It’s for the people who want the Spinalonga view without the 200-person breakfast buffet.
What to expect from the Rosewood era in 2026
When the full Blue Palace Resort Crete reopens under the Rosewood flag, the numbers change slightly. We're looking at 154 rooms and suites. More than half of those—85 to be exact—will have their own private pools.
The Asaya Factor
Rosewood is bringing its "Asaya" wellness concept to Crete. This isn't just a spa where you get a 50-minute massage and a cucumber slice. It’s a holistic thing. Hydrotherapy, movement studios, and indoor/outdoor treatment spaces that focus on "Place of Mind."
Dining with a View
The culinary side is getting a total facelift too. Afroditi Krassa, a London-based designer, is handling the six restaurants and bars. You’ll still have that beach club feel, but expect a much heavier emphasis on "farm-to-table" through their Phāea Farmers program.
Is it still worth visiting during the transition?
Short answer: Yes, but know what you’re booking.
If you book Phāea Blue Palace right now, you’re getting the "boutique" experience. It’s a member of Small Luxury Hotels (SLH). You still get the private beach. You still get the Blue Door Taverna—which, let’s be real, is the main reason half the people visit. That taverna is housed in a restored fisherman’s stone house right on the water. It’s rustic, blue-checked tablecloths, and fresh catch of the day. It’s perfect.
The main "palace" building and the funicular (that quirky elevator that takes you down the cliffside) are part of the larger renovation project. So, if you stay there before the 2026 grand opening, the footprint is smaller. It’s more "Cretan soul" and less "corporate luxury."
What most people get wrong about the location
The Blue Palace Resort Crete isn't actually in Elounda proper. It’s a few kilometers north, tucked between Elounda and the tiny fishing village of Plaka.
Plaka is the real gem here. You can walk there in about five minutes. It’s one street of pebble-stone beauty with fish tavernas that have been there longer than the resort has. If you stay at the hotel, don't eat every meal on-property. Go to Plaka. Sit by the water. Drink the local raki.
Spinalonga Island is the other big draw. It’s right across the water. It was a Venetian fortress and later one of Europe’s last leper colonies. You can take the hotel’s traditional wooden caique (a Greek fishing boat) over there. Seeing the sun set behind the fortress ruins with a glass of Assyrtiko in your hand is one of those "okay, I get the hype" moments.
Practical tips for your trip
- Fly into Heraklion (HER): It’s about an hour's drive. Don't bother with Chania unless you want a 3-hour road trip across the island.
- Rent a car: The resort is amazing, but Crete is huge. You’ll want to see the Lassithi Plateau or drive down to Vai Beach.
- Check the dates: Both the current Phāea boutique and the future Rosewood are seasonal. They usually open in May and shut down by late October.
- The Wind: The Mirabello Gulf can get breezy. If you’re sensitive to the wind, ask for a room that’s slightly more sheltered on the hillside.
The bottom line on the Blue Palace Resort Crete
The resort is growing up. It’s moving away from the mass-luxury Marriott model and leaning into something more curated and architectural. If you want the full-scale, 154-room Rosewood experience with the Asaya spa, wait for the Summer 2026 opening. If you want a quiet, 47-room boutique hideaway that feels like a private villa, book Phāea Blue Palace now.
Either way, that view of Spinalonga isn't going anywhere. It’s still the best seat in Greece.
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Next Steps for Your Trip:
- Verify your booking site: Make sure you aren't looking at old Marriott listings; use the official Phāea website for current stays or the Rosewood portal for 2026 reservations.
- Check the renovation schedule: If you are sensitive to construction noise, email the concierge to confirm which wings are active during your specific dates.
- Book the Blue Door in advance: Even if you're staying at the resort, this taverna fills up with outside guests from Elounda, so grab a sunset table early.