Imagery © IHG

IHG Hotels & Resorts is continuing growth of its luxury and lifestyle segment in Europe with the development of InterContinental Resort Crete.

Expected to open spring 2023, this new InterContinental retreat will be the only property in Agios Nikolaos to offer direct access from a seafront promenade along with views over Mirabello Bay.

Entry to Crete

IHG is partnering with the private equity real estate firm, Henderson Park, and international real estate firm, Hines, to develop the InterContinental brand’s first property on the Greek island of Crete.

Willemijn Geels, VP of development in Europe for IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “InterContinental is the world’s first and largest luxury hotel brand and has been renowned by guests as the epitome of luxury hotel experience for the past 75 years. We are delighted to be partnering with Henderson Park and Hines to introduce the brand in Crete and look forward to bringing our shared vision to life.”

“InterContinental Resort Crete is the latest in a series of signings by IHG in Europe over the past 12 months that perfectly illustrate the strength and popularity of the InterContinental brand.”

“Exciting new properties in locations including Ankara in Turkey, Baku in Azerbaijan and Canj in Montenegro have expanded our luxury footprint in the region. We’re also delighted to announce a 20-year extension of our agreement with InterContinental Athens. It’s going to be a great year ahead, and we look forward to more growth to come in 2022 and beyond.”

A nature-inspired retreat

On completion, InterContinental Resort Crete will comprise 205 guest rooms with private verandas, half of which are to also feature private Jacuzzis, along with four restaurants, three bars, a pool terrace, spa, infinity pool deck and rooftop pool, as well as event space.

The interiors of this property will be inspired by the elements of sea, air and rock, with influence taken from local history, materials and craft. The entrance area will stand out for its exposed rock face lit from above by a water-filled skylight.

The property will provide a base for exploration of Crete’s celebrated beaches and rich history. The resort is located less than an hour’s drive from Heraklion.

Commenting on the plans, Philippe Couturier, managing director at Henderson Park, said: “Our success in attracting the InterContinental brand, one of the world’s leading luxury hotel names, to commit to this resort in Crete is a strong endorsement for its quality and appeal, as well as the huge potential we believed it offered from the outset.”

“InterContinental Resort Crete is an exciting addition to Henderson Park and Hines’ Greek hospitality portfolio, and we hope that this agreement will mark just the first stage of building a rewarding long-term relationship with IHG at this exceptional property.”

Paul Gomopoulos, senior managing director and country head of Hines in Greece, added: “We’re proud to be working with IHG Hotels & Resorts on this truly unique property. Our joint venture has established a strong track record in the Greek hospitality market, and we are delighted to partner with IHG and look forward to harnessing the power of its global enterprise and utilising its market-leading expertise.”

“With a prime location and unrivalled facilities, InterContinental Resort Crete will be the first choice of guests seeking a luxury stay on the island. There are many exciting developments planned for Crete, and we’re confident that our new hotel will be at the heart of the island.”

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