A Luxury Crete Hotel Honors Art, Wine, and the Earth

The tales of Greek mythology already feel tangible on the island of Crete, but Minos Beach Art Hotel brings them to life. The winding trails that connect the waterfront bungalows feel like a mix between the Minotaur’s labyrinth and a modern art museum, thanks to the collection of sculptures by contemporary Greek artists spattered about the property. Even though you’d be happy to get lost in this maze, you’re never more than a few steps away from the beach for a quick escape to the sea.

Art has always been entwined with Minos Beach Hotel. The hotel’s director, Gina Mamidakis, also founded the George and Aristea Mamidakis Foundation dedicated to building up artists from around Crete, Greece, and the world. There are now dozens of art installations permanently settled around the property, offering a present-day juxtaposition to the ancient ruins you’ll see in other parts of the island. The sculpture garden, as it’s known, includes permanent pieces as well as revolving exhibitions that highlight up-and-coming artists.

Like the god Dionysus, Gina’s passions extend beyond art and into the world of wine. The wine cellar with hundreds of bottles is just as thoughtfully curated as the art pieces in the sculpture garden and, on top of that, she grows her own grapes right on the hotel’s property for a special Minos Beach wine.

Sustainability is ingrained into the ethos of Crete and Minos Beach Art is no exception. Hotel plans are developed based on environmentally sustainable practices, whether it’s efficient water usage, smart recycling, or minimizing use of plastics. When you’re enjoying meals at one of the restaurants overlooking the bay, you can feel confident that your ingredients likely traveled—at most—a few miles from the farm to your plate.

Chat with a curator today to start your planning your next trip on this island paradise.