Europe's islands have long been a magnet for travellers seeking sun, sea, and serenity. Now, a fresh wave of hotel openings is set to elevate the island experience, with properties ranging from intimate wellness retreats to sprawling luxury resorts. Whether you're drawn to the turquoise coves of Sardinia or the rugged cliffs of Malta's Comino, there's a new stay to tempt you.
Greece: Luura Paros Cliff
On the Cycladic island of Paros, Luura Hotels has opened its first property on the island, Luura Paros Cliff. Perched above the bay of Agia Irini on the western coast, the hotel opened on 1 August 2026 and welcomes guests aged 12 and above. The 39 suites offer uninterrupted sea views from expansive gardens and terraces, with 19 private pools for those who prefer a dip away from the shore. A private chapel, a vast wellness area, and two restaurants round out the amenities.
Dining spans two concepts: Mimi Kakushi, a contemporary Japanese restaurant inspired by 1920s Osaka, and Lenea, which serves modern Mediterranean cuisine with seasonal ingredients. Guests can also immerse themselves in local culture through ceramics workshops led by Parian artist Maria Economides, or take a private boat for fishing tours to remote islets. A second Luura property is planned for New Golden Beach by 2028.
Estonia: Eha Retreat on Hiiumaa
On Estonia's Hiiumaa Island in the Baltic Sea, Eha Retreat is set to open in September 2026. With just eight suites and three forest cabins, the retreat accommodates a maximum of 22 guests, ensuring an intimate atmosphere. Wellness is at the core of the experience: each stay begins with a consultation to craft a personalised programme, and in-room elements include guided sleep meditations.
Guests choose between three, five, or seven-night packages, designed around Estonia's "five seasons" and focused on deep rest and regenerative wellbeing. A five-night retreat starts at £5,500 (€6,417.81) per person, based on double occupancy, and includes dining, treatments, wellness sessions, and activities. The culinary programme, led by Michelin green star-awarded chef Peeter Pihel, champions local produce from Hiiumaa fishermen, grain growers, and herbalists, with opportunities to explore Estonian food conservation techniques.
Italy: Two luxury arrivals in Sardinia
Sardinia's Costa Smeralda is set to welcome two high-profile openings. Rocco Forte's Costa Smeralda resort, located just north of Porto Cervo, will debut in 2027 with 64 rooms and suites, each with a private terrace overlooking the sea. The property marks the brand's first on the Italian island and will feature three dining concepts, a state-of-the-art spa, and two acres of palm-filled gardens.
Nearby, Mandarin Oriental Porto Cervo will offer 83 rooms and suites, five dining concepts, a spa, a fitness centre, and both indoor and outdoor pools set in lush gardens. Both properties are poised to become anchors of the island's luxury scene.
Malta: Six Senses Comino
On the lesser-known island of Comino, known for its rugged cliffs, the Blue Lagoon, and wild herbs, Six Senses is developing a retreat across the bays of San Niklaw and San Marija. The property will feature 71 low-rise suites with private decks, plus 19 standalone two- and four-bedroom retreats with gardens, private pools, and a central courtyard. A separate clubhouse will house a restaurant and a piazza with sweeping views of Santa Marija bay.
The 1,000-square-metre Six Senses Spa will offer treatments, longevity therapies, and personalised wellness programmes inspired by local Maltese culture.
These openings reflect a broader trend of investment in island hospitality across Europe, from the Baltic to the Mediterranean. As travellers increasingly seek out distinctive, restorative experiences, these new properties are set to redefine the island escape.
