It takes time to create a local legend. This year, Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort, Elounda, Crete celebrates two decades of excellence with a special summer of events, marking 20 seasons of Greek hospitality, style and enchanted customers. Come and raise a glass to mark its most glittering moment yet…

Crete’s premier resort arrived in Plaka, near Elounda on Crete’s northeastern coast, back in 2003. When launching this family business, Yannis Sbokos envisioned a serene retreat on this wild stretch of Cretan coast. Today, his daughters Agapi and Costantza keep the dream alive, taking the resort’s established glamour and popularity into the age of sustainability.

In celebration, the summer 2023 season will see festivities on the 20th of each month, while guests will enjoy 20 per cent off food and drink for dinner^† on those dates. Discounts of 20 per cent on stays^†† run throughout summer, and the team has crafted a calendar of 20 exceptional events across the season. Here’s what to expect…

Champagne sunsets
Kicking off proceedings on 20 April. Guests can gather in the view-blessed Arsenali Lounge Bar to try 20 complimentary Comte de Montaigne Champagnes. Later, cosy up to watch a dazzling fireworks display light up the night sky.

Organic garden feasts
One of the family’s pride and joys is its beautifully tended organic garden, which this summer will become the setting for a magical cooking and dining experience. Blue Palace’s executive chef will guide foodie guests through the preparation of a feast inspired by its garden produce, before the whole group sits down at a communal monastery table to share the fruits of their labour, paired with local organic wines.

Flavours of the fire
Top-quality meat, seasoned with herbs and sizzled over open flames, is a key taste of Greece. This summer, renowned Greek chefs Jordan Tseneklidis and Ioannis Beastalis will visit Blue Palace to host supper clubs dedicated to the art of open fire cooking, with local and seasonal ingredients elevated by the heat of a blazing wood grill. Tickets €85.

Full moon parties
On 4 June, everyone’s invited to a hedonistic beach party under the glowing ‘Strawberry Moon’. Food stalls will serve sushi, barbecued meats and seafood, while bartenders will be on hand with gin cocktails and prosecco. For families, an alfresco cinema will be a comfy spot to enjoy a movie with popcorn and ice cream. For older revellers, a DJ set is sure to prompt moonlight dancing. Full Moon Parties will also light up the sands on 3 July and 1 August. Adults €100; children €40.

Guest bartenders
This summer, raise a glass to creative collaborations from world-famous bartenders and the acclaimed mixologist Aristotelis Papadopoulos. The likes of David Rios, Achilleas Plakidas, Adal Marques and Jenniffer Le Nechet will showcase the culture, history, nature and traditions of the region through delectable cocktails, both timeless and exclusive, made from locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.

Spinalonga brought to life
This eerie islet off the coast of Elounda has had several lives: as a mediaeval citadel, a military stronghold and, most famously, as a colony for leprosy sufferers. This historical masterclass will take guests over the water in a traditional wooden boat at golden hour to witness an immersive re-enactment organised by archaeologists and experts from Discover Greek Culture. It’s a unique way to see the neighbouring landmark. 14 June, 10 July, 4 August, 21 August, 5 September, 11 September. Tickets €85.

Take to the waters
On the 15th of each month, guests can take to Blue Palace’s traditional caique fishing boat to watch the evening glow across the shimmering Aegean. With food, drink and music thrown in alongside glorious views of the coastline, this four-hour evening cruise will continue the celebrations all summer. Tickets €80.

All holidays with British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and come with a 23kg baggage allowance per person and a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your holiday to Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort, Elounda, Crete now with a low deposit^* on ba.com/bluepalace

T&Cs
†Offer subject to availability and can be withdrawn at any time. 20% off for dinner is applicable for dinner on 20th of each month (from April to October). The offer applies to all restaurants and bars, except room service and minibar consumption. Discount will apply to total dinner bill (including beverages). 
††Offer subject to availability and can be withdrawn at any time. Book by 31/05/23 to receive 20% off hotel accommodation for stays throughout 2023. Discounts apply automatically if eligible. 
*Deposit balance due 28 days in advance for short haul. Travel restrictions may apply.

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