Greece Tourism Gains New Luxury Landmark As Mar-Bella Collection Adds Cayo Resort In Crete

Mar-Bella Collection makes the leap into Crete with Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa As part of the new premium hospitality brand, the resort will be the latest addition to the Mar Bella Collection by Cayo as the group continues to expand into Greece’s burgeoning luxury market. Based in Plaka, Elounda, the new 117-room resort will join the collection in April 2027.

Mar-Bella Collection Brings Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa Into Crete’s Luxury Tourism Market

Mar-Bella Collection is strengthening its presence in Greece’s luxury tourism sector with the addition of Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa in Plaka, Elounda, Crete. The resort will officially join the collection from 22 April 2027, marking the brand’s first expansion into the island of Crete.

The move adds a premium coastal resort to Mar-Bella Collection’s growing Greek portfolio, which already includes MarBella, Nido and Avali in Corfu, along with Elix on the Greek mainland.

Located across 35,600 square metres, Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa offers panoramic views towards Spinalonga, one of Crete’s most recognised historical landmarks. The property features 117 rooms, suites and villas across 11 accommodation categories.

All accommodation options provide sea views, while many rooms, suites and villas include private pools. The resort has been positioned as a luxury escape combining privacy, comfort and access to Crete’s natural and cultural attractions.

Luxury Accommodation and Experiences Planned for International Visitors

Following the ownership transition, the resort will continue to maintain its existing identity while introducing the service standards and guest-focused approach associated with Mar-Bella Collection.

The property is expected to attract international leisure travellers seeking luxury holidays in Crete, particularly visitors interested in premium accommodation, Mediterranean landscapes and personalised experiences.

Guests staying at Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa will have access to several dining and lifestyle facilities, including:

• Five restaurants offering multiple culinary experiences
• Three bars for leisure and evening entertainment
• A dedicated spa facility
• Conference and event spaces
• Wedding facilities for destination celebrations

The resort also provides a range of activities designed around Crete’s landscape and heritage. Travellers can explore options such as hiking, cycling, cooking classes, private cruises and organised excursions.

Popular nearby experiences include visits to Spinalonga and Agios Nikolaos, allowing visitors to combine luxury accommodation with cultural exploration.

Family-Friendly Improvements Planned Alongside Luxury Experiences

Mar-Bella Collection is expected to introduce additional family-focused facilities at Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa while continuing to serve couples and luxury leisure travellers.

Planned improvements include dedicated zones for adults and families, along with a new kids’ club designed to expand the resort’s appeal among multi-generational travellers.

The development reflects the increasing demand for resorts that offer different experiences within one destination. Families can access child-friendly services, while couples and adult travellers can enjoy private spaces and premium facilities.

For travellers planning a Crete holiday, the resort’s location in Elounda provides access to beaches, coastal scenery, historic attractions and local experiences.

Travel Guide for Visitors Planning a Stay at Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa

Travellers visiting Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa should consider several planning factors before booking their Crete holiday.

Best time to visit:
The main travel season in Crete generally runs from spring to autumn. April onwards offers pleasant weather for sightseeing, outdoor activities and coastal experiences.

Getting there:
International visitors can reach Crete through the island’s major airports, including Heraklion International Airport, which serves as one of the primary entry points for tourists.

Local experiences to explore:

• Spinalonga historical island
• Agios Nikolaos coastal town
• Traditional Cretan villages
• Mediterranean hiking routes
• Local food and cultural experiences

Ideal travellers:
The resort is suitable for luxury holidaymakers, couples, families and travellers seeking a premium base for exploring eastern Crete.

Visitors should book accommodation early during peak summer months, as luxury resorts in popular Greek destinations often experience strong seasonal demand.

Crete Strengthens Position as a Global Luxury Travel Destination

The introduction of Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa with the Mar-Bella Collection represents the ongoing expansion of the luxury hospitality proposition in Crete.

The island is still one of Greece’s most popular destinations due to its beaches, history, cuisine and scenery.

Crete also continues to appeal to visitors seeking a luxurious Mediterranean break, with new-and-improved hospitality offerings and additional resort developments.

Including Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa is anticipated to diversify the options available to international visitors in search of a luxury resort experience coupled with a true Cretan one.