Perched on a hillside above the Gulf of Elounda with panoramic views of Spinalonga, Blue Palace is an ultra-luxury resort with architecturally stunning infinity pools cascading toward the sea. Private villa suites and bungalows all have outdoor hot tubs or pools. The signature Thalassa Spa uses Cretan herb and olive oil treatments.
Blue Palace Elounda Resort & Spa — now operating under the Phāea Blue name — occupies a privileged hillside position above the Gulf of Elounda in northeastern Crete, delivering panoramic views that take in the Aegean, the historic fortress of Spinalonga, and the distant peaks of the Lasithi range. Set in the village of Plaka, approximately 12 kilometres north of Agios Nikolaos and 80 kilometres east of Heraklion, the resort combines dramatic coastal scenery with genuine seclusion, accessible from Elounda town in under ten minutes by road.
The architecture is contemporary Cycladic, with a series of terraced villa suites and bungalows that cascade down the hillside toward the sea. Private infinity pools align in tiers, each filled with Aegean-coloured water and positioned to frame Spinalonga across the gulf. The design integrates natural stone, timber, and local materials throughout, maintaining aesthetic coherence while allowing each villa to feel distinctly private. All villas and suites include private outdoor living areas; higher categories feature private plunge pools or hot tubs on dedicated terraces.
The Thalassa Spa is the resort's premier wellness facility, drawing on Cretan herbs, olive oil, and thalassotherapy protocols. Treatments include traditional Greek massage, vinotherapy, and hydrotherapy circuits. Five restaurants and bars serve a range from formal Cretan and Mediterranean cuisine to casual poolside dining and sunset cocktails, with fresh local seafood prominently featured. A private beach club is reached via a dedicated resort shuttle, and a full watersports centre offers sailing, snorkelling, and sea kayaking from the shore.
The resort is strongly positioned as a honeymoon and couples destination, offering dedicated romance packages and wedding facilities with Spinalonga as a backdrop. Concierge services include private yacht charters, guided Spinalonga excursions, and day trips to the Minoan Palace of Knossos approximately 80 kilometres west. The hillside layout naturally separates guests across independent villa units, maintaining a quiet and intimate atmosphere throughout the property.
Amenities
- Private infinity pools
- Thalassa Spa
- 5 restaurants and bars
- Private beach
- Watersports centre
- Tennis courts
- Wedding venue
- Concierge service
Location
Plaka, Elounda, Lasithi 72053
35.2852, 25.7298 View on map
Highlights
- Cascading infinity pools with unobstructed views of Spinalonga Island and the Gulf of Elounda
- Thalassa Spa treatments using Cretan herbs, olive oil, and thalassotherapy protocols in a dedicated wellness facility
- Private villa suites and bungalows with personal plunge pools or hot tubs on hillside terraces
- Five restaurants and bars serving contemporary Cretan and Mediterranean cuisine with fresh local seafood
- Private beach club with full watersports centre, reached by resort shuttle from the hillside accommodation
Tips for visiting
- Request a higher-elevation villa for the most dramatic views of Spinalonga and the open gulf.
- The spa fills quickly in summer; book treatments at check-in or in advance to secure preferred time slots.
- Ask about the resort shuttle schedule to the private beach on arrival — it runs throughout the day.
- Hiring a car is worthwhile for day trips; Agios Nikolaos is 12 km and the Palace of Knossos is about 80 km west.
- May, June, and September offer warm weather with fewer guests and better villa availability than peak July–August.
Accessibility
The resort's terraced hillside layout presents significant mobility challenges, with steps between villa levels and sloped pathways throughout. Guests with mobility limitations should contact the property directly before booking to confirm room-specific accessibility. The beach is reached via resort shuttle rather than on foot.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the Blue Palace still operating under that name?
The property has rebranded as Phāea Blue and operates under that name. It occupies the same site at Plaka, Elounda, and retains the same hillside pool villas and Spinalonga views familiar to returning guests.
Is the resort suitable for families with children?
The resort is primarily oriented toward couples and adults. The steep hillside terrain and villa layout are better suited to guests without young children. Families should confirm specific family facilities directly with the property before booking.
How do guests get to the private beach?
A complimentary resort shuttle connects the hillside accommodation with the private beach club. The journey takes a few minutes and operates throughout the day. Watersports are available from the beach.
What dining options are on-site?
Five restaurants and bars cover formal and casual dining. The flagship restaurant focuses on Cretan and Mediterranean cuisine using fresh local ingredients. Poolside dining and cocktail bar options are available throughout the day.