Aquila Porto Rethymno has earned international acclaim by winning the International Sustainability Awards for its outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability through measurable impact, technological innovation, and long-standing leadership in responsible tourism.

This recognition positions the resort among the top global hospitality destinations embracing smart, responsible, and forward-thinking operations—where luxury meets genuine environmental stewardship.

Situated along the stunning waterfront of Rethymno, this sophisticated city resort fuses a serene beachside setting with vibrant town life. But beyond its stylish façade and exceptional guest experience lies an engine of sustainability—one powered by data, digital innovation, and a comprehensive commitment to reducing its ecological footprint.

Smart Technology for a Smarter Planet

While many resorts speak about sustainability, Aquila Porto Rethymno has made it quantifiable. The adoption of the AI-powered Stop-Waste application represents a cutting-edge approach to food waste prevention. This technology not only monitors waste in real time but also categorizes it by type and origin—providing a clear view of operational efficiency and guest behavior.

The numbers are powerful. Over 230 operational days in 2024, the hotel hosted 40,523 guest nights and generated a total of just 15,470.97 kg of food waste. That’s a daily average of 67.27 kg, or 0.382 kg per guest-night—far below typical industry levels. A breakdown reveals where the waste comes from: 60.09% during food preparation, 27.61% from plate waste, 9.88% from expired items, and only 2.42% from food surplus. These results demonstrate both effective kitchen practices and precise buffet management.

Moreover, this digital system enables responsive training and corrective action, creating a dynamic environment where staff are continually improving. Not only does this reduce environmental impact and food costs, but it also aligns with global sustainability goals, including SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency at Scale

Aquila Porto Rethymno’s efforts extend well beyond waste management. Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of its operations, and the resort’s performance consistently exceeds five-star benchmarks. Energy use is maintained at under 20 kWh per guest night—a remarkable achievement for a hotel of its size and capacity.

A key contributor to this efficiency is the use of solar thermal systems, which supply the majority of the property’s hot water needs. This shift away from fossil fuels to renewable energy significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and supports Greece’s national sustainability targets.

The hotel also utilizes a digital energy management platform that tracks consumption across all major departments—HVAC systems, guest rooms, kitchens, and public areas. By aggregating and analyzing this data in real time, the staff is empowered to make immediate adjustments that drive both cost and energy savings. The use of energy-efficient lighting, automated controls, and advanced HVAC systems ensures that every watt is used wisely.

Certified and Compliant with International Standards

Third-party validation adds further credibility to Aquila Porto Rethymno’s sustainable efforts. The resort holds the Travelife Gold Certification, a rigorous accreditation that evaluates a hotel’s environmental, social, and operational practices. To maintain this certification, properties must meet strict criteria in areas like waste management, energy use, staff training, and community impact.

In addition, Aquila Porto Rethymno complies with ISO 22000 for food safety, ensuring that its dining operations are not only sustainable but also secure and transparent. Guests can dine confidently knowing the resort upholds international best practices both behind the scenes and at the table.

Guest Experience That Reflects Sustainable Values

Sustainability at Aquila Porto Rethymno is woven subtly into the guest experience. It doesn’t feel like a compromise—it feels natural. The Blue Flag-awarded beach is a prime example. This internationally recognized label assures guests of high environmental and quality standards, from water purity to beach cleanliness and safety.

At the same time, guests can enjoy the finer things in life—sunset cocktails at Anatolitiko Café Bar, spa treatments powered by Aegeo Spas, or energizing yoga sessions along the Aegean. All these amenities are delivered with sustainability in mind, whether using local ingredients, energy-efficient facilities, or waste-conscious service protocols.

The hotel’s dining venues also celebrate the local food culture while supporting environmental goals. Piazza di Porto highlights Mediterranean cuisine using island-sourced produce—minimizing food miles while offering an authentic taste of Crete. The Premium All-Inclusive plan ensures guests can enjoy without excess, thanks to thoughtfully managed portions and reduced waste.

Wellness with a Local Heartbeat

Wellness at the resort reflects a deep appreciation of Crete’s natural rhythm. Guests can participate in mindful activities such as yoga, Pilates, and Latin dance—all hosted outdoors with stunning sea views. The spa area includes heated indoor pools, a sauna, and a steam bath, offering holistic rejuvenation in a setting that prioritizes energy efficiency and local ingredients.

Data, Transparency, and Ongoing Improvement

Unlike many hospitality providers, Aquila Porto Rethymno doesn’t keep its sustainability data behind closed doors. The resort produces a comprehensive Annual Sustainability Report, which details its environmental performance using a robust set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). These include energy use, water consumption, waste generation, and sustainability certification status.

Transparency is key. By publicly documenting progress and setting annual targets, the hotel ensures accountability and continuous improvement. Internal audits and quarterly reviews further ensure that goals are met—and raised year after year.

Key metrics include:

• Energy consumption per guest-night: <20 kWh
• Food waste per guest-night: 0.382 kg
• Food surplus waste: 2.42%
• Certification: Travelife Gold, ISO 22000 for food safety

These results are not static achievements—they are part of an ongoing effort to lead by example and create lasting impact.

Leading a Greener Future for Hospitality

Aquila Porto Rethymno’s success lies in its ability to embed sustainability into every aspect of the guest journey without making it feel forced. The resort’s technologies, policies, and practices all support a larger mission: to provide exceptional hospitality that respects the planet and future generations.

Ready to Experience Responsible Luxury? Discover how sustainability, comfort, and style come together at Aquila Porto Rethymno.

To Learn more, visit https://portorethymno.com/.