Fodor's Expert Review Avli

Xanthodidou 22 and Radamanthios, Rethymnon, Crete, 74100, Greece

In a cluster of lovely 16th-century Venetian buildings, centered on a romantic leafy, walled yard, accommodations are split between the various properties, and characterfully decorated with sparkling chandeliers, baroque gilt frames, and antique furniture against a backdrop of rough stone and wooden beams. Avli is a complex of rooms, suites, restaurant, wine bar, cooking school, store, and rakadiko. It's as a whole, though, that Avli sparkles; the food in both dining options is exemplary, as is breakfast, and that courtyard with stone mill wheels and antiquated farm utensils is a great place to hang out. Alternatively, take a glass of wine from one of Greece's largest cellars to the roof terrace with its mosaic Jacuzzi, and enjoy the views of a contender for Crete's most appealing town.

PROS

  • some of the most fanciful and commodious rooms in Greece
  • pleasant roof terrace
  • steep discounts for longer stays
  • evocative, intimate abode at the heart of town
  • personable staff—you are always a name, never a number
  • romantic courtyard

CONS

  • stairs to rooms
  • rooms facing restaurant garden can be noisy at times
  • service can be a bit casual
  • unique old buildings means stairs to all rooms
  • rooms facing restaurant garden can be a little noisy
  • parking is a couple of streets away, but staff will come and collect your bags

QUICK FACTS

Hotel
Romantic
Intimate
Central
Design
$$

HOTEL INFO

Phones: 28310-58250
Website: www.avli.gr

HOTEL DETAILS

12 rooms
Rate Includes: Free breakfast

What’s Nearby