Why Domes Zeen Chania might just be Crete's coolest secret

Boutique family living

Design-led and family-friendly aren’t always found together in hotel descriptions, but Domes Zeen Chania brings the two together harmoniously. The resort appeals to clients seeking a stylish family holiday without losing the romantic aesthetic that attracts couples.

Families will be drawn to the Montessori-inspired kids’ club, focused on creativity, independence and natural learning, with activities ranging from simple crafts for toddlers to yoga for kids, and young guests can enjoy the playground, mini cinema and swimming pool within the club. Children are also invited to head out into the resort’s gardens with the resident experts to plant their own greens, herbs and flowers, as they learn more about sustainability and healthy eating in a fun way. 

When they need some downtime, families can relax in design-forward suites, villas and pavilions with private pools, with multi-room options available to comfortably accommodate multi-generational groups.

Direct wellness enthusiasts to the new Reformer Pilates in the Wild offering, which has been introduced for 2025. The Gym Pavilion will feature state-of-the-art Reformer Pilates beds, providing an elevated and immersive wellness experience set within the natural surroundings of the resort.

Sell it: This is not just a pretty hotel, it’s a versatile booking that earns you repeat business. Position the resort to design-conscious families or couples – the all-ages, all-style concept is rare and in demand.

Elevated dining experiences

Recently awarded a prestigious Michelin Key, Domes Zeen Chania offers guests a world of gastronomic wonder. Fine dining restaurant Gallina is presided over by award-winning chef Pavlos Kyriakis, with a menu inspired by Greece and the Mediterranean. For a more relaxed dining experience, all-day snacks and light bites are available at the Beach House bar and the poolside Ef Zeen bar.   

 
Sell it: The new Michelin Key accolade and beach club are great conversation starters with premium clients – use the Key in particular to highlight the resort’s quality.

Crete’s cultural capital 

Just 10 minutes’ drive from Domes Zeen, Chania is one of the world’s oldest settlements and visitors can explore highlights including the old harbour area, the iconic 16th-century lighthouse and the grand stately homes and Turkish bathhouses.

For those who prefer to spend their holiday by the water’s edge, there are plenty of beach options nearby including the golden sand of Falassarna, the blue waters of Seitan Limania and tropical Balos. Recommend a visit to the nature reserve of Elafonisi, where the beach is famed for its pale pink sand.  

Sell it: Promote the experience as well as the hotel. As well as being ideally located for accessing Chania’s old town, the hotel is also a gateway to some of Greece’s most iconic beaches.

A perfect pairing 

For clients keen to explore more than one island, combine Domes Zeen Chania with Domes Novos Santorini for an ultra-luxury twin-centre with a unique twist. In Santorini clients can soak up scenes of renowned sunsets and the caldera, dine in cliffside restaurants and visit the red and black sand beaches, all from the sanctuary of the resort where each suite or villa features a zen pool. This stunning resort is also an ideal option for families. 

For a premium all-inclusive experience, suggest clients opt for Domes Resorts’ Haute Living Selection (HLS). This hotel-within-a-hotel concept offers them a curated selection of special value offers, including premium accommodation types, a complimentary upgrade to HLS half-board, upgraded welcome and bathroom amenities and more.  

Sell it: Consider individual clients’ needs. A twin-centre such as Chania and Santorini can be a great option for those keen to explore different places, while couples or honeymooners looking for a quieter escape may prefer the tranquillity of Chania as an alternative to buzzy Santorini.