Tella Thera: New sustainable tourism investment in Kissamos, Crete

A new hotel unit with an orientation towards sustainable development is expected to operate from July 14 in the Kissamos area, in Western Crete. It is Tella Thera, a 10 million euro investment, which is the first sustainable hotel unit to be included in the Development Law of 2024, achieving a high score based on the inclusion criteria.

The unit is currently in a soft opening phase.

The investment scheme and the strategic choice of location

Behind the investment are Loukas Tourkomanis and his wife, originally from Singapore. Mr. Tourkomanis, a former executive at global giants such as Airbnb and TikTok, returned to Greece to implement their shared vision for sustainable tourism development.

Crete was chosen due to its potential for energy self-sufficiency, local agricultural production and the increased demand for quality accommodation in non-urban areas.

Architectural and technical features

The complex includes 20 suites and 1 villa, ranging in size from 140 to 300 sq m. each. The layout is amphitheatrical, aiming to maximize privacy and views, while special emphasis was placed on the bioclimatic approach during the design and construction.

The architectural part was handled by Pierris Architects and the construction was assigned to Hellenic Homes. The project has already been awarded at the International Property Awards 2024 in two categories: Hotel Architecture and New Small Hotel Development. Key elements of the design are the integration of the building volume into the natural landscape, the use of natural materials (stone, wood), the installation of photovoltaic systems and planted roofs, as well as the thermal utilization of the subsoil for energy saving.

The consultant for the energy strategy of the project was Professor Agis Papadopoulos from the University of Thessaloniki.

Internal operation and additional services

The accommodation will have a restaurant with a menu based on local and seasonal products, under the zero waste philosophy. The restaurant's brand name is Anemoia. It will also include a gym, a wellness area (spa), as well as common meeting areas, including the reception with a pool bar, shaped like a "square".

The surrounding area has been designed by landscape architect Karolos Hanikian of Greenways, with an emphasis on creating soft infrastructure for activities such as yoga and outdoor relaxation.

Market positioning and target audience

Tella Thera is aimed at guests with increased environmental sensitivity and a preference for quiet, decentralized, high-standard accommodations. The branding strategy has been developed by AS Strategy with the aim of creating an identity that focuses on authenticity, atmosphere and connection to the landscape.