King Asterion looms large in the mythology of Crete. As the island’s first king, his long reign is associated with Crete’s rich cultural heritage, while as husband to the Phoenician princess Europa and stepfather to her children fathered by the mighty Zeus, he embodies the island’s outward-looking ethos and deep-rooted hospitality. So, Asterion is the first King of Crete, the husband of Europa, and the stepfather of Minoas.
But where is he from? What is his true origin?
Asterion was one of the Gods’ favourites. Because they knew that he was different. He was a man with strong intuition, which helped him receive and understand the secrets of Gods. He was born from the explosion of a supernova, which made him so bright that it gave him the ability to create a magnificent civilization. He was a cosmic amphora comprised of flesh and bone that contained the essence of the universe. He was a wise creature, made from stardust, created from all the atoms of the big bang, a unique being, that evolved from the depths of space and time like a flaming star.
These attributes lie at the heart of the five-star Asterion Suites & Spa whose mission is to authentically celebrate the island’s unique culture and hospitality with a sense of modern sophistication. Set in an idyllic beachfront location, this Cretan chic hotel draws from the myth of Asterion as much as from Crete’s natural beauty, welcoming guests into an exclusive kingdom where traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary luxury; where eating ambrosia and drinking nectar reveals our star-made essence.
The Asterion Suites & Spa is nestled in an area of lush greenery on the western coast of Crete, known for its incredible sandy beaches, set just back from the incredible beach of Pyrgos Platanias with a stunning view over the Aegean ocean and the nature reserve of Saint Theodore Island.
Located near the cosmopolitan village of Platanias, the hotel provides the perfect escape. Artfully blending into its beautiful surroundings, the property is far enough from the island’s busy towns and cities whilst conveniently remaining close to the island’s main attractions.
The historic town of Chania is just 15km away, a popular destination with a variety of restaurants and shops to suit all tastes, centred around its striking 14th century Venetian harbour. Chania is easy to access from the hotel via local transport or taxi. The airport is just 35km away making for a short transfer on your outgoing or return journey.
The hotel is also ideally located for exploring the region’s sandy beaches, majestic gorges, historical Minoan sites and cosmopolitan spots. No matter where you go though, one thing is for sure, you’ll get to experience first-hand the world-famous Cretan hospitality of its people.