By Shane Cullen Stephen Aherne
Ikos Resorts announces the launch of its first property on the iconic Greek island of Crete: Ikos Kissamos, which will welcome guests from April 2026. This exciting addition expands the brand’s award-winning portfolio to eight luxury all-inclusive resorts in Greece and Spain, each located in breathtaking beachfront destinations across the Mediterranean. A full decade has passed since the opening of the first Ikos resort—a decade in which the Greek-born brand has established itself as a leader in the luxury all-inclusive segment.
Ikos Resorts
Ikos Resorts was named World’s Leading Luxury All-Inclusive Resort Brand 2024 in the World Travel Awards 2024. All Ikos Resorts are beachfront escapes, balancing serenity and adventure in mind. Elegantly appointed suites and sublime restaurants are dotted throughout the manicured gardens, with untouched beaches, crystalline waters, dazzling pools and elegant bars. They offer à la carte menus created by Michelin-star chefs. From sunset yoga on the beach, a paddleboard around the cove, introductory diving lessons, or family tennis matches on floodlit courts, private yacht rentals and football coaching sessions – guests have a choice of unforgettable experiences.
Most significant luxury hotel development on Crete
With a significant €150m investment, Ikos Kissamos marks the most significant luxury hotel development on Crete, further cementing the group’s leadership in Mediterranean hospitality. The project is poised to usher in a new era of tourism and economic growth for the region, blending exceptional design, elevated service, and sustainable development in true Ikos fashion.
Chania Region of Crete
Located in Chania region, just 45 minutes from the airport, Ikos Kissamos is nestled along the pristine shores of Kissamos Bay. Surrounded by rolling sand dunes and lush gardens, the resort unfolds as a serene eco-retreat, immersed in Crete’s stunning natural beauty. Drawing inspiration from the island’s rich heritage, ancient Minoan motifs, and the rhythmic lull of the Aegean, the resort’s distinctive design fuses relaxed luxury with authentic Mediterranean warmth. Indoors and outdoors flow seamlessly, creating a sanctuary where every space invites connection, reflection, and delight.
Contemporary Relaxed Luxury with Authentic Mediterranean Warmth
With 414 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, Ikos Kissamos is surrounded by turquoise sea, blooming gardens, or private pools, completing a retreat defined by beauty, harmony, and understated sophistication. The architectural design draws inspiration from the island’s rich heritage, blending contemporary, relaxed luxury with authentic Mediterranean warmth. The soothing colour palette of warm neutral tones is embellished with natural materials such as wood, fibre, and stone, creating a tranquil, organic retreat. Accents of terracotta and olive further evoke the vibrant spirit of Crete.
Near Balos Lagoon Beach and the Ancient Port of Falasarna
Notable nearby attractions include the breathtaking Balos Lagoon beach and the ancient port of Falasarna – both consistently ranked among the best beaches in Europe by leading travel publications and beloved by visitors, for their crystal-clear waters and dramatic landscapes -as well as Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s premier hiking destinations.
Commitment to Sustainability
In line with Ikos’ strong sustainability commitment and efforts to preserve the surrounding environment, the landscape design of Ikos Kissamos has been carefully crafted to blend seamlessly with the region’s natural beauty. The resort welcomes guests to an immersive landscape designed not simply to be seen, but to be lived. From lavender mazes alive with butterflies to shaded olive groves where families gather under ancient trees, the landscape is a quiet celebration of the island’s rich heritage. Children explore sensory gardens and hidden play spaces while adults find stillness in hammock gardens and sea-facing yoga decks, allowing guests to feel fully immersed in the protected setting.
Ikos Kissamos also continues the brand’s commitment to sustainability. The resort is pursuing LEED Gold certification for Building Design and Construction and is in line with Ikos Green standards, which include: net-zero carbon emission plan for 2030, elimination of single-use plastics, zero waste to landfill, 100% water reuse, and organic waste composting. The brand’s comprehensive sustainability ecosystem strengthens the local community and biodiversity, serving as a model for long-term positive-impact tourism.
Offering Unconditional Luxury in a new destination, Ikos is delighted to welcome guests to a haven on the beautiful bay of Kissamos.
For more, visit Ikos Kissamos or for Ikos Resorts, visit https://ikosresorts.com/.