Words Vidula KotianDate 26 June 2025

Opening this July in the heart of Kissamos, western Crete, Tella Thera is not just a hotel—it’s a living dialogue between past and future, nature and design, solitude and community. Set amid ancient olive groves with sweeping Mediterranean views, this new retreat invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with what truly matters.

Tella Thera’s architecture—designed by Stella Pieri of Pieris Architects—embodies the bold spirit of Future Primitivism, where tribal forms meet cutting-edge sustainability. Subterranean suites nestle into the earth, offering natural cooling and ultimate privacy, while green roofs crowned with olive trees dissolve the buildings into the landscape. Floor-to-ceiling arched windows frame endless sea views, inviting light and nature inside. Every curve, texture, and earthy tone feels intentional—an ode to the land’s raw beauty and timeless rhythms. The retreat’s sustainability vision was developed in consultation with Agis Papadopoulos of Thessaloniki University, whose insights guided energy-conscious strategies and future-facing design choices.

Here, privacy and connection are carefully balanced. Spacious rooms and intimate, cave-like bathrooms provide a sanctuary to retreat, while the hotel’s social heart pulses in the thoughtfully designed common areas. Guests are encouraged to cross paths, share stories, and find community amid the stunning setting.

The overall branding was developed in collaboration with Antonia Skarakis of AS Strategy, uniting authenticity, atmosphere, and meaning. At the culinary core is Anemoia, a restaurant that honors tradition through a modern, zero-waste lens. Its plant-forward menu celebrates seasonal, local ingredients, offering a taste of Crete’s fertile soil and deep respect for the land. Dining here is a soulful experience—both nourishing and mindful.

Outside, the landscape unfolds like a natural cathedral. Winding paths weave through olive groves, quiet clearings beckon reflection, and hilltop terraces offer the perfect stage for yoga and connection. Designed by landscape architect Karolos Chanikian of Greenways, these outdoor sanctuaries reflect the hotel’s commitment to biophilic design and emotional well-being.

At its core, Tella Thera is committed to environmental responsibility, meaningful hospitality, and creating space for conscious connection—with oneself, others, and the land.