IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of two new properties on the stunning island of Crete, Greece. The Chania Hotel Crete, Vignette Collection, and Kimpton La Mer Crete will be IHG’s first properties under their respective brands in Greece, adding to the luxury and lifestyle portfolio of the company. Expected to open in 2025 and 2026, these two hotels will introduce unique, memorable experiences for guests in one of Greece’s most sought-after destinations.
The new properties, owned by Gelasakis Group, will further expand IHG’s footprint in Crete, following the successful debut of InterContinental Crete in 2024. The Chania Hotel Crete, Vignette Collection will be located in the heart of Chania, just steps from the port and the bustling market. With 39 guestrooms, the hotel promises an exclusive and immersive experience, featuring a rooftop bar, an à la carte restaurant, and a wellness centre with a rooftop heated plunge pool. Its commitment to responsible travel will make it a standout in the region, offering guests an experience that goes beyond luxury.
Kimpton La Mer Crete will bring a world-class beach resort experience to the island, positioned perfectly between Chania and Rethymno. With 76 guestrooms and a range of upscale amenities, the beachfront property will include two distinctive restaurants and a state-of-the-art spa centre with an indoor seaside pool. Guests will also have direct access to the scenic Georgioupolis beach, offering spectacular views of the Gulf of Chania. Only 20 minutes from Chania Airport, Kimpton La Mer Crete promises an idyllic getaway for those looking for luxury by the sea.
IHG’s Commitment to Growth in Greece
Willemijn Geels, Vice President of Development for Europe at IHG Hotels & Resorts, expressed excitement over the company’s debut of two luxury and lifestyle brands in Greece. “Chania is emerging as one of the most sought-after destinations for high-end travelers, and the addition of these properties to our portfolio will further cement our presence in the country,” she said. “Our luxury and lifestyle portfolio has grown significantly, and we are excited to see the expansion of Vignette Collection and Kimpton in this beautiful part of the world.”
IHG’s luxury and lifestyle portfolio has grown rapidly in recent years, with more than 900 hotels in operation or in the pipeline globally. This expansion is a reflection of the growing demand for luxury accommodations and IHG’s ability to offer brands that cater to this market. The introduction of the Vignette Collection and Kimpton brands to Greece is just one example of IHG’s strategic growth in key destinations.
Distinctive Brands for the Modern Traveler
The Chania Hotel Crete will join IHG’s Vignette Collection, which represents a curated collection of distinct hotels, each with its own unique identity. Vignette Collection hotels are defined by the promise of “A Means for Good” and “Memorable Rituals,” offering guests a one-of-a-kind experience with all the benefits of the IHG One Rewards program. The Vignette Collection has already surpassed half of its 10-year target of 100 hotels globally, with 20 hotels open and 35 more in the pipeline.
Kimpton Hotels, on the other hand, is known for its design-forward, lifestyle luxury accommodations. Founded by Bill Kimpton in 1981, the brand revolutionized the hotel industry by creating unique properties where guests could experience more than just a place to stay. With a focus on human hospitality, distinctive design, and vibrant social spaces, Kimpton Hotels has become a leader in the luxury lifestyle segment.
Looking Ahead
Both properties are set to open in the coming years, offering travelers unique opportunities to experience two of IHG’s most popular brands in the stunning backdrop of Crete. As Greece continues to be a top tourist destination in Europe, these new additions to IHG’s portfolio will provide guests with luxury accommodations, excellent service, and unparalleled experiences in one of the most beautiful locations in the world.
