The hype
Guests rave about the staff treating them like family and the 'conscious luxury' ethos, but some feel the prices are steep for the reduced facility footprint.
Phāea Blue - Small Luxury Hotels of the World
$400-800/ night
Book this if You want the legendary Blue Palace views and service without the mega-resort crowds (or the construction noise of its neighbor).
Why People Love It
- Epic views of Spinalonga Island from almost everywhere
- Private heated pools in many bungalows
- Intimate, boutique vibe (only 47 rooms) compared to the former massive resort
Quick Take: This is the 'lite' version of the old Blue Palace—smaller, quieter, and more exclusive, but you're basically staying next door to a future Rosewood construction site.
Reviewed by @lifeofabarbie: I felt like I was living in a movie here. Waking up to the view of Spinalonga from my private terrace was surreal. The service is impeccable, and lounging by my own pool with a glass of wine was the ultimate reset. It’s expensive, but absolutely worth the splurge.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You might hear construction noise from the neighboring property during the day, though the hotel tries to shield you from it.
- You prioritize privacy and having your own plunge pool
- You love farm-to-table dining (no generic buffets here)
- You want to be walking distance to Plaka's tavernas
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.5
- Housekeeping: Impeccable. Twice-daily service is standard and thorough.
- Bathroom hygiene: Spotless marble, high-end toiletries, no grout issues reported.
- Maintenance: Newly renovated (2024), so everything feels fresh and functional.
- Linens & towels: Crisp, high-thread-count linens and plush beach towels.
- Odors & scents: Fresh sea breeze and subtle local herbs; no mustiness.
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Daytime construction from neighboring Rosewood project
- Funicular mechanical noise if room is adjacent
- Piped music in public areas (can be loud)
Before you book
Good to know
- The 'Climate Crisis Resilience Fee' is steep here—expect ~€10-15 per night extra.
- Breakfast is often included and is excellent, but dinner reservations are essential.
- The beach is pebble, not sand—bring water shoes.
What to pack
- Water shoes for the pebble beach
- Dressy resort wear (people dress up for dinner)
- Mosquito repellent (vital for evenings)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Island Luxury Suites (heated pools, best privacy)
- Deluxe Bungalows (great for honeymooners, solid views)
Rooms to avoid
- Bungalows near the main walkways (passersby can see into your pool)
- Rooms closest to the construction boundary (ask specifically for a room 'away from the renovation zone')
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am celebrating a special occasion and would love a room with maximum privacy for the pool—specifically one not visible from the funicular or main pathways. Also, please ensure we are located as far as possible from the neighboring construction works.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the whole hotel under construction?
No. Phāea Blue is a standalone boutique section (47 rooms) that is fully open. The *rest* of the former resort is closed for renovation into a Rosewood.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, private pools in the Island Suites and Villas are heated, which is a game-changer in May/October.
Can I walk to town?
Yes, the village of Plaka is a short 5-10 minute walk (or quick buggy ride) away.
Is it kid-friendly?
Technically yes, but the vibe is heavily skewed toward couples and quiet luxury. Kids might be bored without the big resort clubs.
How is the beach?
It's a private pebble beach with wooden walkways and plush loungers. Crystal clear water, but rocky entry.
Is there a gym?
Yes, a 168m² indoor/outdoor fitness center with Technogym equipment.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Skip the hotel lunch one day and walk to 'Giorgos Plaka' for fresh fish right on the rocks.
- ✨
The 'Phāea Farmers Feast' pop-up is worth the splurge—you harvest ingredients and eat in the garden.
- ✨
Request a room near the top for better views, but be prepared for the funicular wait.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'funicular' is the lifeline of the resort; if it breaks (rare but happens), it's a steep hike.
💡You can actually see the island of Spinalonga from your bed in some suites.
💡The neighboring construction is the elephant in the room—staff try to ignore it, but you might see cranes.
💡Room service prices are eye-watering (€18 for dessert).
💡The 'private' beach is lovely but can get windy in the afternoons.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Phāea Blue - Small Luxury Hotels of the World is located and what's nearby.