Newsflash from Wednesday, 8 October 2025: Three luxury resorts in Crete — Elounda Peninsula, Grecotel Creta Palace, and St. Nicolas Bay — are ranked among Europe’s best in Condé Nast Traveller’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards.
Crete continues to make Greece proud on the international tourism stage. According to Condé Nast Traveller’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, three luxurious resorts from Crete have been ranked among the top ten hotels in Europe, showcasing the island’s world-class hospitality and stunning natural beauty.
The prestigious travel magazine highlighted Greece as one of the biggest winners in Europe, with Greek hotels dominating the top spots. Among them, Crete’s Elounda Peninsula Luxury Resort, Grecotel Creta Palace, and St. Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas stood out for their exceptional service, comfort, and authentic island charm.
Crete’s Top Three Resorts in Europe’s Elite List
1. St. Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas — Agios Nikolaos (Ranked #7, Score: 98.38)
A timeless favorite on Crete’s northern coast, St. Nicolas Bay combines boutique elegance with traditional Cretan hospitality. Its private beachfront, award-winning spa, and fine dining experiences make it a haven for travelers seeking both relaxation and luxury.
2. Grecotel Creta Palace — Rethymno (Ranked #8, Score: 97.50)
Located on the golden sands of Rethymno, Grecotel Creta Palace is a family-friendly resort known for its refined atmosphere and sustainable approach to tourism. Guests praise its lush gardens, gourmet cuisine, and attention to detail that reflects Grecotel’s signature style.
3. Elounda Peninsula Luxury Resort — Elounda (Ranked #9, Score: 97.14)
Nestled in one of Crete’s most exclusive destinations, Elounda Peninsula offers private pools, panoramic sea views, and impeccable service. Its elegant design and serene setting have made it a favorite among discerning travelers and celebrities alike.
Greece Dominates Europe’s Hospitality Scene
The Porto Zante Villas & Spa in Zakynthos claimed the #1 spot in Europe with a nearly perfect score of 99.71, followed by Sani Resort in Halkidiki and Ikos Dassia in Corfu. Overall, Greek hotels captured all ten positions in Condé Nast Traveller’s European ranking — a remarkable achievement that underscores the country’s ongoing leadership in global tourism.
Crete’s strong presence on this list reinforces its reputation as a destination that blends luxury, authenticity, and natural splendor. From the cosmopolitan energy of Agios Nikolaos to the tranquil shores of Rethymno and Elounda, the island continues to attract visitors from around the world seeking unforgettable Mediterranean experiences.
Key Takeaways:
– Three Cretan resorts ranked among Europe’s top 10 hotels for 2025.
– St. Nicolas Bay, Grecotel Creta Palace, and Elounda Peninsula earned top scores for excellence in hospitality.
– Greece dominated the entire Condé Nast Traveller European ranking, securing all top 10 spots.
Source: Creta24
