Acro Wellness Suites enjoy a sensational setting sprawled across the hillside of Mononaftis Bay on the northern Crete coastline, with mesmerising Aegean views. Originating from the Greek word akros, meaning ‘on the edge,’ the architects behind Acro based their design on organic materials, a contemporary aesthetic and desire to blend harmoniously into the natural landscape. The overall effect is impressive, and the resort has been beautifully designed to showcase local sustainable materials, including warm woods, textual stone, and sensual marble. With a focus on wellness, there’s farm-to-table cuisine, fabulous spa, and fitness facilities, along with daily yoga. Staff are unstuffy and friendly, and the vibe is hip and laidback.
Each of the adult-only 49 suites and villas boasts a private saltwater pool, spacious terrace with loungers, sea view, and chic pared back style. Suite amenities include King bed, sofa bed, Wi-Fi, Marshall Bluetooth speakers, Smart TV, minibar stocked with healthy drinks and snacks, Nespresso machine, and eco ceiling fans. Bathrooms include walk-in rain showers, double vanities, robes, slippers, hairdryer, beach towels and tote. All Suites sleep up to three adults, while the sumptuous Villas can sleep between two and eight adults. Villas offer a more residential experience with additional benefits that include climate control, vintage vinyl record players, private garden, and dining area.
The main restaurant Cremnos is described as a ‘nutritional haven,’ and serves classic Cretan dishes with a modern twist and emphasis on farm-to-table cuisine. To dine amid the olive groves, head to Eleonas in the heart of the resort, which promises a gastronomic journey reflecting the rich culinary heritage of the island. The wellness ethos continues at all-day pool bar CIRCLE, where experienced mixologists create cocktails using Mediterranean botanical herbs and local juices. The resort has also opened a restaurant in Agia Pelagia, UMI which serves Japanese/Peruvian cuisine. Open to both guests and locals, booking is essential.
The Moroccan-inspired spa pampers guests with organic products and the Bathhouse includes an authentic Byzantine hammam, dry sauna, outdoor pool, heated pool, and treatment rooms. There are daily yoga sessions in the spectacular Asana Yoga Shala, a well-equipped gym, tennis, padel and basketball courts. Alongside these leisure facilities, guests can enjoy hiking trips, climbing Mount Ida (the highest point on the island), and visits to historic attractions including the Minoan Palace of Knossos and ancient city of Eleftherna. The nearest sandy beach is around 3km away at Agia Pelagia.
Acro has excellent sustainability credentials, and runs on solar power, with a water and waste management system, robust recycling policy, and sponsorship of local community and cultural events.