Stella Island, Crete

A luxurious pool area with lounge chairs and a sunset view.
Top-down view of a blue swimming pool with lounge chairs and plants.
Luxurious resort pool area at night with illuminated water and modern cabanas.
Luxurious poolside area with wooden deck and modern seating under a pergola.
Luxury outdoor pool area with modern seating and palm trees at sunset.
Modern poolside resort with wooden cabins and lounge chairs under a cloudy sky.
Luxurious resort pools illuminated at dusk with ocean views.
Modern outdoor pool area with wooden deck and seating under a large canopy.
Aerial view of a luxurious pool area with a circular floating lounge and sunbeds.
Modern cafe with woven bamboo ceiling and minimalist furniture.
Cozy beachside restaurant with wooden decor and ocean views.
Elegant restaurant interior with wooden tables and chairs.
Balcony seating with wooden privacy screens and outdoor views.
Cozy modern living room with wooden accents and natural light.
Cozy bedroom with wooden accents and soft lighting.
Modern bedroom and bathroom interior with wooden accents and a view of the pool.
Modern bedroom with wooden ceiling accents and minimalist decor.
Sleek modern bathroom with a freestanding white tub and black marble wall.
Modern bathroom with wooden accents and a large mirror.
Luxurious indoor spa area with a large hot tub and ambient lighting.
Luxurious indoor spa with reclining chairs and ambient lighting.
Calm spa room with massage tables and soft lighting.

Overview

Designed for adults who dream in turquoise, Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa in Crete is the definition of indulgent escape. Its signature lagoon style pool winds through palm lined walkways and overwater bungalows, giving every suite a direct connection to the water. Chic, minimalist interiors meet island warmth, where sun-drenched decks, candlelit dinners, and world class service create a resort that feels at once serene, sociable and impossibly photogenic.

A luxurious resort pool area illuminated at dusk.

Highlights

  • Lagoon style pool that flows through the entire resort, creating overwater suites
  • Adults only retreat, perfect for couples seeking privacy and tranquility
  • Five elegant restaurants and bars offering global and Cretan flavours
  • Overwater spa bungalows with glass floors for serene aquatic treatments
  • Daily yoga, water fitness and curated wellness programmes
Modern resort pool area with wooden cabanas and lounge chairs at sunset.

Reflections

  • Adults only policy means not suitable for families
  • The resort's Instagram popularity can make some areas busy in peak season
  • Limited local immersion, guests often stay within the resort grounds
  • Pool suites offer little privacy from neighbouring decks
  • Some evening entertainment leans towards the resort style rather than authentic Cretan culture
Aerial view of a coastal area with buildings and roads.

Location

Located near Analipsi on Crete's northern coast, Stella Island is close to both Heraklion and Hersonissos. Surrounded by golden beaches and gentle countryside, it offers easy access to local villages and archaeological sites while maintaining a secluded, exclusive feel.

The Journey from the UK

Fly direct into Heraklion (HER) from London Heathrow, London Gatwick and many regional UK airports, with a flight time of around 4 hours. From Heraklion Airport, its a 25 minute drive along the coastal road to the resort. Helicopter transfers and private chauffeur services can be arranged for a seamless arrival.

Suites/Villas

Stella Island features 225 rooms and villas designed in natural tones and contemporary island style. Overwater Bungalows are the standout, with glass floors, hammocks, and direct ladder access to the lagoon pool. Luxury Pool View Rooms offer swim-up terraces, while the Island Villas include private pools and sun decks. All rooms feature rainfall showers, plush robes, Nespresso machines and Greek amenities by Apivita. Maxiumum occupancy is two guests, ideal for couples or honeymooners.

Modern bedroom with a large bed and a view of a cozy balcony.
Elegant, modern restaurant interior with wooden chairs and soft lighting.

Food and Restaurants

Dining at Stella Island is an international affair with five distinct venues. Oceania serves Mediterranean dishes with sea views, while Vegera celebrates Cretan cuisine and farm to table ingredients. Utopia offers a fine dining experience with creative tasting menus, and Paraiso brings Asian fusion flair to the poolside. The Cabana Bar and Umami Lounge offer sunset cocktails and late night bites. Floating breakfasts, private beach dinners, and candlelit tastings add a touch of theatre to every meal.

Facilities and Activities

  • Lagoon style pool spanning the entire resort.

  • Overwater spa with sauna, hammam, and couple's suites.
  • Daily yoga, aqua fitness and meditation classes.
  • Private beach area with sun loungers and cabanas.
  • Fitness centre with personal trainers and wellness consultations.
  • Wine tastings, mixology classes and weekly live music events.
  • Access to nearby golf course and boat excursions arranged through concierge.
Luxurious indoor pool area with warm lighting and modern design.