This hotel is an excellent 4* family run property with a historical character and at an Old Town location that adds to its appeal. The guest should expect to step back in time in an exclusive high quality environment that will satisfy the most demanding guest. Highly recommended (EP 08/07)
The hotel is located in the maze of narrow streets that make up the Old City of Rethymno. It was part of an extensive complex of buildings that used to belong to the Dominican Monastery of Santa Maria Magdalena during the town's occupation by the Venetians in the 14th century.
The junior suites are larger than standard rooms, about 50sqm in size and still have many of the original features restored such as wooden ceilings and stone walls and Venetian arches. Some of them are also maisonette style and have 2 levels. They are expensively decorated with furnishings that match the hotels concept and blend with the historical character. However, there is no lack of modern amenities such as air conditioning, refrigerator, satellite TV and internet connection, while some of the rooms come with a balcony or a terrace. (Due to limited availability, all clients must reconfirm whether they need twin or double bedded rooms prior to departure. The hotel may confirm a double bedded room plus sofa bed as a twin room).
The entrance is through a small portico that opens to the arched courtyard, lit by 2 medieval lanterns. It is like a doorway to a time machine that will take you back hundreds of years.
The restaurant and bar is on the ground floor, with tables inside the building but also outside in the patio and close to the large stone staircase leading up to the accommodation area. The hotel has a highly acclaimed restaurant serving predominantly Cretan and Greek dishes (the owner is a member of the Greek Academy of Wine and Taste) and a well stocked 700 year old wine cellar for the connoisseurs.
The stone staircase at the patio lead up to a balcony and a small lobby where the guests are welcomed with a free drink. Honeymooners can take advantage of a special package that includes free champagne and fruit basket upon arrival. The reception is open from 0800 to 2400 hrs. It is advisable to call and inform the hotel in advance, if the guests intend to arrive outside these hours.