Crete, Greece

Pnoé Breathing Life

The Mediterranean • Stay • Pnoé Breathing Life in Crete, Greece

What’s the hotel in a nutshell?

Pnoé Breathing Life emerged as an invigorating presence among luxury wellness hotels in Crete in 2023, providing a distinct alternative to the familiar path of five-star accommodation. Set on the eastern fringe of Heraklion’s capital, this creative venture is the brainchild of trendsetter Marita Karatzi. Risen from the remnants of a forsaken hotel and brought to life in a mere ten months by Cube Concept, the property has been reimagined as a tranquil haven. Its modern yet inviting aura is enhanced by minimalist furniture and architecture, artfully arranged around the central swimming pool.

What are the rooms like?

The 60 suites of the hotel, each boasting private pools, are the heart of this exceptional hospitality experience. Keeping a clean, modern aesthetic, these suites offer a serene and cosy ambience. They eschew the conventional luxurious Greek guestroom décor, instead opting for a design steeped in natural, dark materials. Functionality and design blend seamlessly within the suites, as partitions optimise space and lighting bolsters the atmosphere. A commitment to inclusivity is evident in the accessibility of each room, regardless of category, and this mindful approach is echoed throughout the property with easy-access pathways.

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What else?

Beyond its opulent façade, Pnoé Breathing Life embodies the essence of next-gen wellness. Central to this is the spa, outfitted with cutting-edge wellness options such as Hyperbaric Oxygen therapy, Zerobody and Breathwork therapy. An ultra-modern fitness centre entices guests into a space accentuated by waterfalls, Himalayan salt stones, a wood-fired sauna and an ice fall. The hotel’s dining experience encompasses the Anása Restaurant and the Thymises Cretan Restaurant, each serving a wide array of delectable options for breakfast and dinner, with Thymises also offering snacks and light meals throughout the day. The Aeri Pool Bar and Uranos Rooftop Bar ensure refreshing beverages and signature cocktails are at guests’ fingertips, with the latter offering unique sunset views, premium cigars and a selection of shisha flavours.

What’s the island like?

Steeped in history and bathed in Mediterranean sunlight, Crete, Greece’s largest island, serves as a captivating blend of vibrant landscapes and cultural charm. Traverse the bustling streets of Heraklion, home to a treasure trove of Minoan art, or relish the coastal beauty of Chania with its stunning Venetian Harbour. History buffs can unravel ancient tales at the Palace of Knossos and the city of Phaistos, while nature enthusiasts can marvel at the impressive Samaria Gorge and the unique pink sands of Elafonisi Beach. A healthy, delectable Cretan diet awaits food lovers, and the locals’ legendary hospitality, philoxenia, warms the heart of every traveller.