This new, adults-only resort opens August 2016 in the extraordinary destination of Chania, Crete.

The sister hotel to the legendary Domes of Elounda, Domes Noruz Chania is a stylish 83 room and suite beachfront boutique hotel. Combining Greek heritage with modern design, Domes Noruz Chania provides an escape from the predictable and an Exactly Like Nothing Else experience synonymous with the authenticity of the Autograph Collection Hotels brand.

Located on the northwest coast of Crete, the Mediterranean destination of Chania offers an enchanting Venetian harbour, captivating streets and hidden treasures. A seamless blend of Ottoman, Venetian and Greek architecture, the old town is just a 10-minute drive from the hotel. The waterfront and promenade come alive at night with bars, clubs and restaurants – complete with flowing champagne and stylish pool parties.

For those seeking culture, Chania is also steeped in history housing Polyrinia, one of the most fortified towns in ancient Greece, as well as being home to a historic market and impressive Archaeological Museum.

With ‘Noruz’ meaning ‘new light’, sunlight is a focal point of the hotel interiors. Domes Noruz Chania’s striking design combines unique urban elements and a light, airy atmosphere with splashes of color. Its adult-only status will appeal to guests seeking privacy and exclusivity.

The spacious rooms feature spectacular pool and sea views of the lapis Cretan Sea as well as private outdoor baths or plunge pools. The surrounding architecture is inspired by the Venetian heritage of the old town of Chania, using Cretan sandstone. Carefully considered touches include Smeg mini bars, large outdoor living spaces and 49-inch Smart TVs.

In line with the seamless service for which the collection is known, the hotel is able to create tailor-made experiences – from bespoke cocktails with unexpected local ingredients, to late night moonlit events at the Domes Noruz’s sandy beach and helicopter rides at the magnificent UNESCO protected ‘Samaria Gorge’.

Wellness is an integral part of the Domes Noruz philosophy. The expansive beach provides a quiet spot for private yoga lessons and the hotel’s Soma Spa is a haven of serenity and tranquility. Inspired by traditional local embroidery and fabrics, this calming space offers the latest in natural massage and treatments using organic herbs from the island. Following their treatment, guests can enjoy an energising concoction from the nearby juice bar.

The hotel’s hotly anticipated restaurant, Zeen, will offer delicious Cretan cuisine with an international influence, led by the award-winning chef Doxis Bekris. A modern, all-day restaurant and bar is comprised of different deli counters during breakfast, including a bakery and vitality bar with an emphasis on local produce and organic ingredients. The sleek rooftop Raw Bar offers guests an extensive selection of exciting and innovative cocktails with breathtaking ocean views.

On this new property George P. Spanos, Vice-President of Ledra Hotels and Villas SA (the managing company of Domes Noruz Chania) comments, ‘‘We added our own distinctive aesthetics to make the accommodation at Domes Noruz Chania a unique experience.  From conception to completion, our aim is to create a fresh and innovative boutique property. These elements are further enhanced by the spectacular surroundings of Chania.”

Commenting on this new addition to Autograph Collection, John Licence, brand leader for Autograph Collection Hotels in Europe, says: “We are delighted to welcome the luxurious Domes Noruz as our second Greek and Mediterranean resort into the Collection. As the portfolio grows in Greece, in a country where Autograph Collection has been so well received with Domes of Elounda, we believe that Domes Noruz Chania truly embodies the philosophy of our collection by showcasing unique attributes ensuring that the brand’s offering is nothing short of exceptional.”

Domes Noruz Chania is owned by Ledra Hotels and Villas, a dynamic group of companies that combines authentic Cretan hospitality with contemporary design and tailored-made services.

Rooms start from €330 (£276/$363 at current exchange rates) per night for an Upbeat Retreat, pool view room with plunge pool in August.