Newsflash from Monday, 6 October 2025: The National Geographic Traveller (UK) Hotel Awards 2025 celebrate the world’s top 30 hotels — and Crete’s own Tella Thera in Kissamos, Chania, has earned a spot among them for its eco-friendly design and authentic Greek hospitality.
National Geographic Traveller Awards 2025: Boutique Hotel in Chania Among the World’s Best
Crete continues to shine on the global hospitality map. The National Geographic Traveller (UK) has unveiled its Hotel Awards 2025, recognizing 30 outstanding hotels worldwide — and among them is Tella Thera, a boutique eco-retreat located in Kissamos, Chania.
According to Hania News, the hotel earned distinction in the “Eco Retreat” category — a segment honoring sustainable sanctuaries that combine environmental responsibility with exceptional guest experiences.
A Celebration of Design, Sustainability, and Greek Hospitality
Tella Thera has been praised for its architectural harmony with the natural landscape, blending seamlessly into the rocky terrain of western Crete. With green roofs, semi-underground structures, and an aesthetic that draws from local tradition, the hotel embodies the essence of eco-luxury — offering comfort without compromising sustainability.
> “Tella Thera shows how Greek hospitality can stand proudly on the global stage, combining luxury with environmental consciousness,” National Geographic Traveller (UK) noted in its announcement.
The award highlights Greece’s growing reputation for sustainable tourism, where small, design-driven resorts are leading the way in redefining modern hospitality.
Global Recognition for Crete’s Hospitality Scene
The 2025 Awards feature hotels from across the globe — from Indonesia’s Anantara Ubud Bali Resort and Switzerland’s Grand Hotel Belvedere, to Australia’s Heyscape Denmark and Madagascar’s Voaara.
In addition to the Eco Retreat category, National Geographic Traveller also recognized:
– Revamped Hotels: such as the W Prague and Waldorf Astoria New York, both historic properties given new life through thoughtful restoration.
– Wellness Havens: focusing on holistic wellbeing and connection to nature.
– Remote Escapes: for travelers seeking tranquility far from the crowds.
Crete’s inclusion among these world-class destinations underscores its status as a top-tier travel destination, where natural beauty, tradition, and innovation coexist.
About the National Geographic Traveller Hotel Awards
The Hotel Awards 2025 celebrate creativity, sustainability, and the art of hospitality. Each year, editors and travel experts from National Geographic Traveller (UK) select hotels that exemplify exceptional design, cultural authenticity, and a sense of place.
This year’s winners reflect a global trend toward eco-conscious travel and meaningful experiences, rather than conventional luxury.
Crete’s Continued Rise as a World-Class Destination
From its Venetian harbors and mountain villages to its boutique eco-resorts, Crete continues to attract discerning travelers seeking authentic experiences. The recognition of Tella Thera adds to a growing list of international accolades for Greek hospitality — proving that sustainability and style can go hand in hand.
