Kalimera Archanes Village

Nested at the foot of Crete's sacred mountain Giouhtas, at 15 km away from Heraklion, Archanes is one of the most charming villages of Crete boasting a rich history, important archaeological sites and a distinctive local architecture. Archanes underwent a magnificent restoration twenty years ago and has won the award of one of the most beautifully restored villages in Greece and one of the most beautiful villages in Europe.

Right in the center of Archanes, Kalimera Archanes Village houses three stone-villas, three independent listed guesthouses that have been recently recreated with great care and due respect to the village's architectural style. Each villa has its own name; Drosostalida (literally dewdrop), Avra (literally breeze), Zephyros (literally Zephyr).

At first glance, it's hard to tell what the unique feature of this complex is, what makes this hotel so special. It is definitively the harmonious combination of the simplicity of forms and lines and the traditional element in the decoration and furniture of the houses. On the ground floor, all three villas have a comfortable living room with a fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen and a dining place. Bedrooms with a spacious balcony offering unhindered views of the city and the sacred mountain are housed on the first floor.

I kept wondering? what is it that makes every guest feel at home and relaxed? What brings a smile on everyone dwelling here, making the stay so special?

But of course! You feel like a cherished guest in a local's house rather than a hotel guest; it's really as simple as that!

Anna Petromichelaki, the hotel owner, with her unique personality and warm hospitality, makes all the difference here? her personal touch is reflected everywhere.

Emanating a calm and hospitable ambiance, the hotel perfectly combines comfort, quality and a sense of being at home while the beautiful lush gardens between the villas ensure privacy.

The hotel has another major advantage: while you are enjoying the privacy and relaxation offered in the hotel, you still feel the aura of the beautiful village of Archanes, since Kalimera Archanes Village is located two steps away from the village's central square.

There are many things to see in this village, such as the orthodox Churches of Panagia (Holy Mary), Aghia Triada (Holy Trinity) and Aghia Paraskevi - all adorned with amazing Byzantine frescoes -, as well as the remnants of a Minoan Palace. If you are not a monuments-loving tourist, you can wander through the paved alleys of the village, marvel at the beautiful neo-classical houses, have coffee on the traditional kafeneia or have something to eat at the village's small traditional tavernas. Around the village of Archanes, there are many well-known recently established wineries, as well the vineyards of the Minoan Palace and the oldest wine presses in the world in Vathypetro archaeological site. The options are countless!

Kalimera Archanes Village is definitely one of the most attractive accommodation options if you wish to explore the region and you decide to say "yes" to the numerous opportunities offered here for a pleasurable stay.