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Dennis Ferrer, Rafael and OMRI. headline the first artist announcement for this unique festival in Elounda
A new destination festival concept is coming to Crete. Bateleur will take over an entire five-star resort in Elounda from October 22 to 25, 2026, offering a limited-capacity house music experience for just 500 guests, unlike anything else.
The festival will bring together international DJs, a comprehensive wellness programme and five-star hospitality, creating a fully immersive weekend where the resort itself becomes the festival, all set against one of the Mediterranean’s most spectacular coastlines.
Unlike festivals simply hosted at hotels or resorts, Bateleur will take over the entire property, creating a private and exclusive environment for its guests. Accommodation, music programming, wellness and hospitality have all been designed as one continuous experience, allowing the weekend to unfold naturally from poolside afternoons and private beach sessions to open-air parties continuing until sunrise.
Music sits at the heart of Bateleur, but the experience extends far beyond the dancefloor. The festival will feature a comprehensive wellness programme including yoga, sound healing, ice baths, workshops and much more, creating a balance between celebration and relaxation throughout the weekend.
Dennis Ferrer, Rafael and OMRI. headline the first announcement
The first artist announcement is led by Dennis Ferrer, the New York house pioneer whose three-decade career has helped define the sound of underground house music.
Joining him is Rafael, whose deep, groove-driven sets draw inspiration from the classic Chicago house sound. The artist is also behind Cheetah Print, his recently launched record label.
OMRI. will bring his own distinctive take on house music. The artist is also the driving force behind Collecting Dots, a new label that is rapidly establishing itself within the scene.
Crete as the backdrop
Located in Elounda, the resort is just 45 minutes from Heraklion Airport, in one of the most exclusive areas of the Greek island. The region is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, dramatic landscapes and some of the finest resorts in the Mediterranean.
Nearby attractions include the traditional fishing village of Plaka, the submerged ruins of the ancient city of Olous, the secluded Kolokytha Beach and a picturesque harbour lined with seafood restaurants, cafés and bars.
Taking place in October, once the large summer crowds have left the island, Bateleur offers a new and truly intimate way to experience a music festival.
More information and tickets: https://festival-bateleur.com/
ABOUT BATELEUR FESTIVAL
Bateleur is a destination house music festival redefining the traditional festival format by taking over an entire five-star resort in Crete.
With a limited capacity of approximately 500 guests, the festival combines house music, wellness and hospitality, transforming the entire resort into the setting for a weekend of open-air parties, poolside sessions, private beach experiences and sets continuing until sunrise.
