The hotel that powers itself, and empowers you.

 

Green by design

THE GROVE CRETE will be the first certified Passive House hotel in all of Greece. The Passive House is the only internationally recognised, performance-based energy standard in construction, resulting in ultra-low energy buildings. They need little energy for heating and cooling. The plans for THE GROVE CRETE were revised by a certified Passive House architect, and the building is undergoing certification by the Hellenic Passive House Institute (ΕΙΠΑΚ).

Off-grid energy

THE GROVE CRETE will get its energy not from the public grid, but from renewable sources. Energy will be produced entirely on-site via solar technology, a heat pump, a combined heat and power plant convertible to green hydrogen use, and a battery for electricity storage. We will cooperate with SunOyster, a company that has developed an innovative solar collector, with THE GROVE CRETE becoming a pilot project.

 

Crete first

We try to source all products and services used for THE GROVE CRETE on the island. By doing so, we will reduce emissions from transport, strengthen local producers and traditions, and help reduce regional disparities between hinterland and coast. All food will be sourced from our own garden or nearby mountain villages. Local artisans are given the opportunity to use the hotel rooms as showrooms, and THE GROVE CRETE will develop its own line of textiles in cooperation with local weavers.

Zero Emissions

Our vehicle fleet will be powered by the Aegean sun. Our electric minivan, and the e-Vespas that will be available for rent, will be charged with energy produced on site. We want to be the first European business to use a Canoo vehicle for airport pickups and tours. To promote carbon sinks, guests can compensate for the CO2 emissions caused by their travel by donating to a reforestation project in Crete. Guests who choose to travel by bus or train, as well as ferry, receive a discount.

 
 

Reuse & Recycle

We are aware of our responsibility and will therefore focus on a holistic approach to water management, to the prevention of pollution and to waste production. To optimize water management, water is partially sourced from a rain cistern and – along with grey water – treated accordingly. The pool will be operated year-round, making regular emptying unnecessary. Biological alternatives to chlorine will be used, as well as a pool cover against water loss from evaporation. Food waste will be composted or fed to farm animals. Olive wood will be pressed into pallets for heating the hotel’s own fireplace in winter.