Marriott International to Bring First ‘JW Marriott’ Hotel to Greece

Marriott International, Inc. on Wednesday announced a partnership with Vasilakis SA to bring the JW Marriott brand to Greece.

Part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands, JW Marriott consists of properties and distinctive resort locations around the world.

Anticipated to open in 2025 on Crete, the JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa will span 100 acres of coastal beauty and aim to attract travelers seeking a luxury escape paired with to notch service and holistic well-being experiences.

“Greece remains as one of the most attractive destinations for today’s global traveller, and the signing of JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa reflects the continued demand we are seeing for luxury accommodation across the country,” says Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International.

Designed by acclaimed architecture firm Block722, JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa is anticipated to blend modern elegance with authentic Cretan heritage. The resort is slated to offer 160 stylishly appointed luxury guestrooms with all suites and villas featuring a private pool or jacuzzi.

Design plans for the resort also comprise multiple tranquil wellness spaces inviting guests to fully embrace the here and now including a JW Garden and five culinary experiences, inclusive of a traditional Cretan restaurant and a beach dining venue. Additionally, the property will offer multiple swimming pools, a fitness centre, beach club, spa and Family by JW experiences.

JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa will be situated in the outskirts of the town Chania along Marathi Beach, which is known for its crystal clear, shallow water and is regarded as a popular starting point for excursions on Crete. Chania is a charming medieval town home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, castles, and a breathtaking natural landscape. The property will be in close proximity to Chania Airport, and a two-hour drive from Heraklion International Airport.

Antonis Vasilakis, owner of Vasilakis SA., said the values of JW Marriott align perfectly with the company’s vision for the project.

“We are confident that this brand will elevate the hospitality experience in Greece and set a new standard of luxury for our guests,” he said.

Based on the island of Crete since 1912, Vasilakis SA began as the first retail timber trading in Heraklion and later expanded its activities in construction and building materials. The company recently expanded into the tourism industry, opening up the first the JW Marriott in Greece and a city hotel in Heraklion, both located on Crete.

SWOT Hospitality, a Greek company that manages luxury hotels across Greece, will collaborate with Vasilakis SA and Marriott International as the third-party operator for the franchised property.