Greece’s tella thera: a luxury spa escape rooted in nature and tech
Forget the sterile, predictable wellness retreats of the past. Loukas Tourkomanis, former Airbnb executive, has carved out a radically different experience at Tella Thera, a brand-new, climate-conscious resort and spa on the Greek island of Thera. It’s a place where the digital world disappears, replaced by the scent of olive trees and the sound of the Mediterranean.
A vision born from a white horse
Tourkomanis’s journey began unexpectedly. After leaving Airbnb, he felt a pull towards his homeland, a desire to create something truly unique. A chance encounter – a white horse named Artemis – during a visit to Thera solidified his vision. “It was a sign,” he insists, reflecting on the site’s immediate appeal. Five years and meticulous planning followed, resulting in a property that’s as thoughtfully designed as it is breathtaking.
The result is a collection of 20 sand-poured concrete suites, each boasting its own pebble patio and private plunge pool. Pieris.Architects’ bioclimatic design ensures the resort operates in harmony with its surroundings, utilizing natural ventilation and solar shading. Details, from custom-sized pillows crafted in Singapore to a zero-waste restaurant, are obsessively curated.
Beyond the spa: a holistic retreat
But Tella Thera is more than just a luxurious spa. It’s an invitation to reconnect with Crete’s rich Culture and natural beauty. Guests can embark on guided hikes through the Sirikari Gorge, forage for wild greens with local experts, or sample low-intervention wines at a nearby boutique winery. Foteini Mavromataki, head of guest experience, is adept at tailoring each stay to individual interests – I spent one afternoon being chauffeured to PoTolo after expressing a love for hiking and Greek gastronomy.
The commitment to sustainability is woven into every aspect of the resort. Staff wear loose linen uniforms made from upcycled textiles by Thiswasasheet, and amenities are crafted from reclaimed wood. Tourkomanis’s philosophy extends beyond the property’s walls, advocating for exploring Crete’s “country within a country.” Membership with Design Hotels further cements Tella Thera’s position as a destination for discerning travelers.
The details matter
Forget juice cleanses and rapid weight loss. Tella Thera is about immersion – a slow, deliberate appreciation for the simple pleasures of life. From sipping coffee overlooking the cerulean sea to indulging in a magnesium-oil massage, the experience is designed to foster a sense of well-being. And remarkably, no plastic was encountered during my four-day stay.
Bookings are now open for 2026, marking the resort’s first full season. But be warned: Tella Thera isn’t a place to simply ‘do’ wellness. It’s a place to be.