News Center
JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa will introduce the brand’s mindful ethos and serene spaces to the sought-after island destination
Marriott International, Inc. announced it has signed an agreement in collaboration with Vasilakis SA to bring the JW Marriott brand to Greece. Anticipated to open in 2025, JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa will span 100 acres of coastal beauty and will be a haven for travelers who seek a luxury escape paired with exceptional service and holistic well-being experiences.
SWOT Hospitality, known for its expertise in managing luxury hotels across Greece, will collaborate with Vasilakis SA and Marriott International as the third-party operator for the franchised property.
“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. “We look forward to working with Vasilakis SA and SWOT Hospitality to introduce the brand’s legacy of extraordinary hospitality, thoughtful design, and enriching well-being experiences to the island destination of Crete.”
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.
“We are delighted to announce the opening of the first JW Marriott resort in Greece, marking a significant milestone for our company. The collaboration with SWOT hospitality, marked by their expertise and unwavering commitment, has already demonstrated the success that this project is destined for,” says Antonios Vasilakis, Owner of Vasilakis SA. “The values of JW Marriott align perfectly with our vision for this project, and we are confident that this brand will elevate the hospitality experience in Greece and set a new standard of luxury for our guests.”
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 in 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
"As a team, we are thrilled to announce our collaboration with Marriott International, and we are especially grateful for the trust placed in us by Vasilakis S.A.,” says Stelios Koutsivitis, President of SWOT Hospitality. “The debut οf JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa will redefine luxury hospitality in the Mediterranean, and also reinforces Greece’s position as an attractive destination for luxury brands and international jetsetters.”
About Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 8,800 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 139 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on X and Instagram.
About JW Marriott
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. JW Marriott is a tribute to the founder of Marriott International, J. Willard “J.W.” Marriott, who prioritized his own well-being so that he could take better care of others. Inspired by his approach to life and rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott properties offer a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together and experience every moment to the fullest. Today there are over 120 JW Marriott hotels in nearly 40 countries and territories worldwide that cater to sophisticated, mindful travelers who come seeking experiences that help them be fully present, foster meaningful connections and feed the soul. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including complimentary nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.
About Vasilakis SA
Vasilakis SA’s activity in the industry began with the establishment of the first retail timber trading in Heraklion, Crete, which very soon developed into the largest unit in the region. Later, the company expanded its activities in construction and building materials and supplied the market with a broader range of new products that improved construction results. The company’s core principle is maintaining ethical values and developing a solid relationship with society, people, and the environment. The mission of the company is to create value for customers and partners all around Greece. Antonios Vasilakis has recently expanded his company into the tourism industry as well, opening up the first the JW Marriott in Greece and a city hotel in Heraklion, both located in Crete.
About SWOT Hospitality
Established in May 2013, SWOT Hospitality is a leading hotel management company based in Athens, Greece specializing in hotel management, asset management and development, investment management, sales & marketing and advisory services. SWOT’s experience, professionalism, and ability to effectively respond to the rising demands of the global hospitality industry has led top investors and developers to entrust the company with realizing their vision to excellence. SWOT Hospitality is currently managing a portfolio worth 300 mil euros in Greece and Southeastern Europe. The company collaborates with renowned international hotel chains such as Hilton, Marriott International Inc., Hyatt Hotels Corporation, Accor S.A., and Nikki Beach Hotels & Resorts. Additionally, SWOT holds White Label Operator (WLO) certification from Intercontinental Hotels & Resorts and Leading Hotels of the World. The Firm’s principals have maintained a consistent track record of strong performance and value creation. They have acquired, developed, and managed some of the most high-profile hotels in the region, with more than 3,500 rooms and a value in excess of €1 billion.
Media Contact
Chandan Belani
Senior Director, Development PR – Europe, Middle East & Africa
Marriott International
Chandan.Belani@marriott.com
