Building a luxury hotel brand is a monumental undertaking. For sisters Konstantina and Danae, their journey to foundership was quite literally in their blood.
Having grown up in the hospitality industry, making their own mark felt like a natural next step. Spending most of their childhood in their family-run hotel in Hersonissos, they developed a genuine passion for the land and the power that comes from sharing it with others.
In 2021, the sister duo opened Acro Suites, a certified wellness haven providing a sanctuary for both body and mind set against the panoramic backdrop of the Aegean sea. Then, the pair led the renovation and rebranding of Seaside a Lifestyle Resort into an adults-only oasis that pairs eye-catching design with world-class facilities and gastronomy. Both are individual in their own right, but fall under the Omicron Hotel umbrella — the boutique hotel brand co-founded by the Orfanake sisters.
Below, we speak to Konstantina and Danae about the power of a family-owned business, their biggest learnings and what makes Crete so special.
Can you please share a little about your backgrounds and how you landed in the world of hospitality?
KONSTANTINA: Our journey into hospitality was organic because we grew up surrounded by hospitality, as our family ran a small hotel in Hersonissos. For me, it felt like home as we spent half of our childhood living in it. Our upbringing in this environment sparked a passion for the industry. My background is in wellness, health science, and later on in life I did numerous courses and seminars on interior design because I love the architectural and interior world so much. Before returning to my home island, I worked in luxury hotels and studied hospitality management for my masters.
Danae and I both have a strong connection to wellness, which has played an instrumental role in shaping our hospitality ventures. We wanted to create spaces that feel like home, and to re-create that feeling we experienced growing up – paired with offering the highest standard of service and luxury as our hotels.
DANAE: To be honest, growing up in the family business initially made me want to escape from it - and from the island I called home. I was young, full of curiosity, and eager to explore the world beyond what I already knew.
As a child, I spent hours painting with my grandmother, which sparked a lifelong love for design. For years, I dreamed of becoming an interior designer. But an unexpected trip to Switzerland, where I visited one of the most renowned schools of hospitality, changed everything for me. That experience opened my eyes to the beauty of travel and the endless opportunities it could bring. The phrase that hooked me was, “If you work in hospitality, you can work anywhere in the world.” I had never thought of that before. It Inspired me. I pursued formal studies in hospitality and even worked in Miami for a year to gain hands-on experience.
Eventually, I returned to the family business, but this time, with a new perspective. I saw it not as a limitation, but as a gateway to fulfilling my dreams. Today, I’m able to combine the loves of my life - travel, design and yoga - right here in a safe place I call home. My goal was to create a space for like-minded individuals to connect, explore, and feel inspired.
What is it about Crete that makes it such a special place for you, both personally and professionally?
KONSTANTINA: For me, Crete is more than just a birthplace - it’s a source of inspiration for my work. My love for design is deeply intertwined with the island's natural environment, rich history, and cultural traditions. I’ve always dreamed of creating a space where my passions for wellness, nutrition, art, and design all blend together – and with ACRO Suites and Seaside A Lifestyle Resort situated along Crete's riptide, has made it the perfect setting for such a vision.
The island’s spirit of authentic hospitality, incredible local produce, its serene landscapes, beautiful beaches, and its emphasis on healthy living and simplicity in general is what make Crete so special to me.
DANAE: Crete is so much more than just a place - it’s our birthplace and the foundation of who we are, both personally and professionally. Growing up on an island like Crete has been an incredible blessing, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
The island gave us our values and ethics, shaping us in ways we’ll always carry with us. I have the best memories of summers spent by the beach, and growing up in the hotel, where I had the unique opportunity to meet people from all over the world. Interacting with so many cultures and making friends from every corner of the globe truly expanded our minds and vision, allowing us to dream bigger.
Crete is not just home - it’s the place that gave us the inspiration and foundation to do what we do today. It’s where our story begins, and where we continue to find purpose and passion.
How do ACRO Suites and Seaside a Lifestyle Resort differ? What are their distinct personalities?
KONSTANTINA: We believe that ACRO Suites is a more intimate and tranquil setting because it is a boutique resort. Set on a cliffside overlooking the sea, it has a raw intimate concept that emphasises on privacy and connection with nature. We wanted the design to integrate sustainable materials from local stone and wood, because we love this type of serene and minimalist aesthetic.
On the other hand, Seaside A Lifestyle Resort is more vibrant and dynamic, with a focus on beachside laid-back luxury and a lively atmosphere. While it still prioritises wellness, Seaside is designed for guests seeking both relaxation and an active lifestyle. It blends the comforts of modern luxury with easy access to the beach, offering a variety of wellness activities, including fitness programs, yoga and meditation – with the resort layout encouraging a more social experience for guests, with dedicated areas for communal dining and events like weekly pool parties.
If ACRO Suites was a person, they would be calm and introverted – and at the same time, they love to feel connected and want to experience unique adventures. Someone who enjoys solitude and quiet reflection, perhaps practicing yoga or meditating by the sea. They value holistic wellbeing, appreciate and practice sustainability, admire beautiful design and indulge in Michelin star worthy gastronomic journeys and experiences.
Seaside A Lifestyle Resort, on the other hand, would be the social, energetic type who is outgoing and active, and always seeking new experiences. They would love to bring people together for both relaxation and adventure. They’d be vibrant, full of life, and always on the go. They would also understand that everything in life is about balance, therefore would also craft time for themselves, and would be mindful with their time.
What does wellness mean to you?
KONSTANTINA: Wellness is about feeling your best in every moment, whether it’s through physical health, mental clarity, or emotional connection. It’s embracing the little things that keep you grounded, like a perfect cup of coffee or a walk in nature. Wellness is also about sustainability - not just for the planet, but for your own energy. You can’t pour from an empty cup, right?
DANAE: Wellness, for me, is deeply personal. As someone who has struggled with anxiety for much of my life, discovering painting and yoga at an early age was truly life-saving. These practices became my escape - a way to center myself and find peace. I’ll never forget the first time I experienced a moving flow in yoga; it was mind-blowing and transformative to empty my head, even for just a few minutes.
To me, wellness means taking care of your mind, soul, and body. It’s about maintaining a balanced diet, staying active through practices like yoga, weightlifting, or anything that makes your body feel good, and nurturing your mental health so you can function daily and pursue your goals. Just as important is prioritising quality sleep. Rest is the foundation of well-being, which is why we’ve created a special sleeping routine at our resort, designed to help guests experience deep and rejuvenating rest.
When designing our space, we wanted to attract like-minded individuals who value maintaining their wellness routines, even while on holiday. That’s why we’ve provided everything they might need - a fully equipped yoga shala, an exceptional gym, a soothing bathhouse, and an environment that nurtures not just physical and mental health but also restorative sleep.
How do the resorts champion luxury alongside wellness? How do you see these two concepts converging?
KONSTANTINA: While we are not a huge fan of the word "luxury," I’d say for ACRO and Seaside, luxury and wellness is like the ultimate power couple – with each elevating the other. At ACRO, luxury feels effortless. It’s an all-private-villa retreat with saltwater pools where you can watch breathtaking sunrises and sunsets from your terrace. The experience includes incredible dining with Michelin-star guest chefs, rejuvenating yoga sessions in our bamboo shala with endless sea views, traditional hammam rituals, and cocktails with live cello music at our cliffside bar. For me, this combination of complete disconnection with uncompromised comfort and upscale service is the perfect recipe for wellbeing.
Seaside on the other hand, brings a playful energy, blending active living with a touch of glam. Imagine starting your day with a high-energy HIIT workout, followed by a gourmet lunch overlooking the ocean with a glass of wine, then unwinding with a sunset sound healing session while meeting like-minded adventurers. It’s about balancing relaxation and activity in a way that feels both refreshing and fun.
Both resorts redefine luxury, not just as pampering, but as creating moments that make you feel your absolute best - inside and out. Whether you're recharging in stillness or thriving in the movement, the goal is to leave feeling inspired, refreshed and completely at peace.
How have you collaborated with local designers and craftspeople on the hotels?
KONSTANTINA: We’ve worked hand-in-hand with local artists and craftsmen to create something that truly honours Crete’s rich cultural heritage. The beauty of the island is reflected in the materials we’ve used from local stone, marble, and wood which have all been incorporated throughout the hotel, giving it an authentic, earthy feel.
We’ve partnered with Cretan based companies to design bespoke furniture and decor, ensuring each piece is not just functional but also a work of art that tells the story of the island. These elements add warmth and personality to the space. We’ve also showcased local materials celebrating Crete’s vibrant artistic community and connecting our guests with the island's soul.
It’s about creating an experience that feels deeply rooted in Crete, blending design with local authenticity, and we’re so proud of how the collaboration with these talented people has brought this vision to life.
How does being a family-owned hotel group make your offering unique/special?
KONSTANTINA: Being a family-owned hotel group makes everything we do feel more personal and sentimental. It’s in our DNA. For us, hospitality isn’t just about running a business, it’s about creating spaces that feel like home. We’re not some big corporate institution - we’re a family, and we treat our guests like part of that family. Every little detail, from the local artwork to the way our team of staff connects with our guests, reflects our values and the love we have for what we do. It’s about offering something real and unique, not a cookie-cutter experience.
What does a typical day look like for you both?
KONSTANTINA: A typical day for me is making sure things run smoothly behind the scenes. I start the day with a meeting with our team to catch up on how everything is going. It's not about me interacting with guests directly, but about supporting our team, making sure their work feels effortless, and that they have everything they need to provide the best experience possible.
We’re a close-knit team, so I’m constantly available to solve problems, brainstorm ideas, and ensure the work environment stays positive and smooth. It’s a lot of moving parts, but we all pitch in, and it’s rewarding knowing we’re all working towards the same goal - creating a seamless, amazing experience for everyone. It’s a hands-on, supportive role, and no two days are ever the same!
DANAE: For me, starting the day slowly has truly changed everything. As women, sleep is important, so I prioritise getting as much rest as possible before easing into my morning. My mental health is my top priority, so I like to start the day with movement - whether it’s playing tennis or a calming activity that sets the tone for the day.
From there, my day typically revolves around work, taking over day-to-day operations and ensuring everything runs smoothly. Some days, I start early at work and unwind later with a sunset yoga or gym session at our bamboo shala. It really depends on the day and how I’m feeling.
During the week, I’m fairly introverted, focusing on work and giving myself space to recharge. Weekends are for balance—hosting dinners, spending time with friends, or traveling to reset and find inspiration.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your jobs?
KONSTANTINA: The most rewarding aspect of my work is definitely seeing a dream turn into a reality. It’s one thing to have a vision or a concept in your head, but to actually see it come to life - whether it’s a new project, a new experience for our guests, or even just seeing the day-to-day flow of the resorts running smoothly is incredibly fulfilling. There’s something magical about watching an idea evolve into something real that people love and enjoy.
It’s also amazing when guests keep returning year after year, choosing our hotels for their special moments. Knowing they’ve made lasting memories here, and being part of their celebrations, is like the cherry on top of that dream-come-true feeling.
DANAE: The most rewarding aspect of my job is seeing the vision my sister and I brought to life resonate with our guests. We built ACRO from scratch - everything from the branding to the smallest details in the resort was crafted with care and intention. Our goal was always to attract like-minded people who would truly appreciate what we’ve created.
What have been your proudest achievements to date?
KONSTANTINA: My proudest achievement? Honestly, it's seeing ACRO not only come to life but also play a part in putting Crete on the map as a top-tier destination for luxury and wellness. The impact it's had on the hospitality scene has been incredible. It's not just about the design or the beautiful location - it's about creating a truly unique experience that resonates with people from all over the world. I’m so blessed and lucky to have a team who have contributed to what ACRO is today. Their dedication, creativity, and hard work have been vital to our success.
The fact that we’ve built something so special that’s now recognised globally is a huge source of pride. Watching our guests connect with our philosophy is truly a dream come true! It’s not just about building a hotel - it’s about creating a lasting impact on the way people experience a destination.
DANAE: One of my proudest moments came with our yoga shala. In our first season, we started with just two or three guests attending the daily yoga sessions. By our second season, we had 20 people in every class, with lines of guests eager to practice. Some even shared that the yoga shala was one of the main reasons they chose our resort. Knowing that something we envisioned has become such a meaningful part of our guests’ experience is incredibly fulfilling - it’s moments like these that make all the hard work worthwhile.
On a more superficial level, having renowned magazines like Vogue shoot campaigns at our resort or welcoming big film companies like Warner Bros. to film on our premises has been another proud moment for us. It’s a testament to the beauty and uniqueness of what we’ve created, and seeing it showcased on such a grand scale is truly surreal.
Are there any mantras/outlooks which have helped you through challenging times?
KONSTANTINA: During the pandemic when we were building ACRO was definitely one of the most challenging times. We literally took it one day at a time. The project faced so many obstacles from supply chain issues to the uncertainty of covid and we knew we had to keep moving forward, even if it was just a little bit each day.
During this period, our father played an incredibly important role. His experience, knowledge, and strength were essential in keeping the project going. His ability to remain calm under pressure and make critical decisions was invaluable. He not only guided us through the rough patches but also taught us how to approach challenges with resilience and patience. We were so lucky to have him with us during that time, learning from his expertise and seeing firsthand how to handle adversity with patience. His presence was like a steady anchor for the entire team, and it was a huge part of why we were able to keep pushing through.
What’s next for Omicron Hotels?
KONSTANTINA: We're in the process of building a new and exciting complex of villas, near our existing hotels, which will be ready for this summer’s season. We have plenty of exciting projects in the works that will unfold in the coming years. Without giving too much away, let’s just say we’re always thinking about how to raise the bar and keep delivering the kind of experiences that make people say, "Wow, I can’t wait to come back." The future is looking bright, and we can’t wait to share more when the time comes!
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