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The backstory: Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, is noted for its craggy landscape and ancient rock-hewn caverns, but the latest hideaway is decidedly less rugged. Set on the brink of a cliff in Mononaftis, just 30 minutes from the main airport, Acro Suites is a wellness-focused boutique resort where your suite might be the most stylish “cave” you’ve ever seen. Following a soft launch last year, the adults-only luxury property is now open for its first full season (April to October).

The space: The 49 suites and villas are distinct, but each comes with views of the Aegean Sea and a private pool. The overall design is sleek, contemporary and meant to blend in with the environment, which translates to organic materials (stone, wood, marble), a low-key palette of earth tones, and natural fabrics like raw-silk bedding. The most unusual suites take inspiration from caves, where you can imagine you’re swimming in your own personal grotto.

The dining: Favouring organic ingredients from small farms around Crete, the main restaurant, Cremnos, serves up modern Greek, with dishes like black truffle pastitsio (beef cheek with paccheri pasta) and dumplings saganaki (bisque-sauced shrimps). Circle, the poolside lounge/bar, is open all day, but time your cocktails or just-squeezed juices with sunset for especially photogenic views.

The extra amenities: Gyms aren’t typically known for their architectural interest, but the Asana Fitness Club is an exception. The space — shared between Acro Suites and Sea Side Resort & Spa (the 248-room sister property next door) — is a custom-made shala with a curved bamboo roof, where you can do your cardio, weight training or yoga classes while taking in distractingly beautiful sea views. But of course, there’s a spa, too: Bath House, featuring a hammam, a Finnish dry sauna, two treatment rooms (for aromatherapy massages and other pampering), and indoor and outdoor pools.

The nearby sights: From the resort, it’s a 10-minute drive to the beach at Agia Pelagia, a small fishing village turned resort town, dotted with waterfront cafes and seafood restaurants. Those looking for a more boisterous scene will find it a half-hour away in Heraklion, the vibrant capital of Crete.

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