Self-Drive-Tour Winter Bliss In Crete
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check-in / check-out: Self-Drive-Tour Winter Bliss In Crete
1. SanSal Boutique Hotel*****
Located in Chania, the most beautiful city on Crete’s northwest coast, this modern, minimalist yet luxurious hotel is just one block from the historic old town. All major sights are within walking distance. When you’re not exploring, unwind at the rooftop pool and lounge – the perfect setting to relax and soak up the Greek sun.
2. Mikros Cosmos Boutique Hotel****+
A beautiful, spacious bungalow complex nestled in an olive grove, with comfortable rooms starting at 30 m² and private terraces. This eco-boutique hotel is situated on Crete’s southeast coast, in the countryside near the coastal village of Timbaki by Matala. Kommos Bay Beach is 5 km away, Matala 7 km, and Kalamaki Beach about 6 km. An idyllic spot for nature lovers, approximately 59 km south of Heraklion and the airport. Guests can enjoy an authentic setting where ecological care is a priority – thoughtful resource use and harmonious coexistence with nature, without compromising comfort. The location is ideal for exploring historical sites such as Phaistos (6 km), Gortys (18 km), and the prehistoric Matala Caves (7 km).
3. Manili Boutique Hotel*****
Located directly in the wine village of Archanes, the largest wine-growing region of Crete, just 15 km from Heraklion and the airport. Archanes is renowned for its traditions, vineyards, and excellent local wines. Guests visiting in August and September can witness or even participate in the grape harvest and winemaking process. From late October to early January, the distillation of grapes (Rakokazana) takes place, producing the famous Cretan raki. Wine tasting tours are also available. Crete is world-famous for its exceptional olive oil. From November onwards, guests can visit the locally restored olive oil factory to discover timeless methods of extracting this precious oil.
Located in Chania, the most beautiful city on Crete’s northwest coast, this modern, minimalist yet luxurious hotel is just one block from the historic old town. All major sights are within walking distance. When you’re not exploring, unwind at the rooftop pool and lounge – the perfect setting to relax and soak up the Greek sun.
2. Mikros Cosmos Boutique Hotel****+
A beautiful, spacious bungalow complex nestled in an olive grove, with comfortable rooms starting at 30 m² and private terraces. This eco-boutique hotel is situated on Crete’s southeast coast, in the countryside near the coastal village of Timbaki by Matala. Kommos Bay Beach is 5 km away, Matala 7 km, and Kalamaki Beach about 6 km. An idyllic spot for nature lovers, approximately 59 km south of Heraklion and the airport. Guests can enjoy an authentic setting where ecological care is a priority – thoughtful resource use and harmonious coexistence with nature, without compromising comfort. The location is ideal for exploring historical sites such as Phaistos (6 km), Gortys (18 km), and the prehistoric Matala Caves (7 km).
3. Manili Boutique Hotel*****
Located directly in the wine village of Archanes, the largest wine-growing region of Crete, just 15 km from Heraklion and the airport. Archanes is renowned for its traditions, vineyards, and excellent local wines. Guests visiting in August and September can witness or even participate in the grape harvest and winemaking process. From late October to early January, the distillation of grapes (Rakokazana) takes place, producing the famous Cretan raki. Wine tasting tours are also available. Crete is world-famous for its exceptional olive oil. From November onwards, guests can visit the locally restored olive oil factory to discover timeless methods of extracting this precious oil.
1. West Coast / Chania – Sansal Boutique Hotel
The hotel features 23 rooms and suites. You will stay in a double room with sea view. Enjoy Mediterranean and international cuisine at the on-site restaurant. A rooftop garden with pool, lounge, and bar offers stunning views of the sea and the city – simply breathtaking.
2. South Coast – Mikros Kosmos Boutique Hotel
This small boutique hotel has a café at the heart of the resort, reminiscent of a traditional village square, with Cretan-style chairs and tables inviting you to dine and relax outdoors. The bungalows are nestled among ancient olive trees, each with a visible history. Some trees are hundreds of years old, and over the centuries each has developed its own character shaped by the people who once lived or worked here. Every tree has a story to tell to those who are willing to listen. These olive trees invite you to sit in their shade during the summer, listen to the birds in winter, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of these living monuments of Cretan culture all year round.
3. East Coast / Archanes – Manili Boutique Suites & Villas
The Manili Boutique Suites & Villas are the perfect destination for couples, solo travelers, friends, or families. Located in the heart of the village of Archanes, Crete, tradition comes alive amidst modern and luxurious details. At Manili, great care is taken to offer an unforgettable experience defined by luxury, relaxation, and comfort. The earthy textures of Crete and soothing water features awaken all the senses amid excellent hospitality. Stay in one of the spacious, fully equipped villas or suites and enjoy multiple pools and jacuzzis, barbecue facilities, and top-quality cuisine featuring local delicacies. Indulge in excellent cocktails and coffee at the Manili Bistro.
The hotel features 23 rooms and suites. You will stay in a double room with sea view. Enjoy Mediterranean and international cuisine at the on-site restaurant. A rooftop garden with pool, lounge, and bar offers stunning views of the sea and the city – simply breathtaking.
2. South Coast – Mikros Kosmos Boutique Hotel
This small boutique hotel has a café at the heart of the resort, reminiscent of a traditional village square, with Cretan-style chairs and tables inviting you to dine and relax outdoors. The bungalows are nestled among ancient olive trees, each with a visible history. Some trees are hundreds of years old, and over the centuries each has developed its own character shaped by the people who once lived or worked here. Every tree has a story to tell to those who are willing to listen. These olive trees invite you to sit in their shade during the summer, listen to the birds in winter, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of these living monuments of Cretan culture all year round.
3. East Coast / Archanes – Manili Boutique Suites & Villas
The Manili Boutique Suites & Villas are the perfect destination for couples, solo travelers, friends, or families. Located in the heart of the village of Archanes, Crete, tradition comes alive amidst modern and luxurious details. At Manili, great care is taken to offer an unforgettable experience defined by luxury, relaxation, and comfort. The earthy textures of Crete and soothing water features awaken all the senses amid excellent hospitality. Stay in one of the spacious, fully equipped villas or suites and enjoy multiple pools and jacuzzis, barbecue facilities, and top-quality cuisine featuring local delicacies. Indulge in excellent cocktails and coffee at the Manili Bistro.
West Coast – 1. Im Sansal Boutique Hotel ****+
Superior Room
Relax in the heart of the West Coast with our Superior Room, designed for up to two guests. Enjoy breathtaking, uninterrupted views of the Cretan Sea from a space of 25–31 m², where subtle luxury meets distinctive style. Each room comes with air conditioning, soundproof windows, cable/satellite TV, Wi-Fi, a coffee station, hairdryer, safe, minibar, bathrobes & slippers, and ironing facilities – everything you need for a comfortable and memorable stay.
Southeast Coast – 2. Mikros Kosmos Boutique Hotel
Type Alpha
Experience a cozy bungalow of 30 m², perfect for 1–2 guests. Step onto your large furnished terrace and unwind on the queen-size Coco-Mat bed. The room features a bar-desk, a luxurious bathroom with rain shower, coffee machine, safe, minibar, and TV or tablet on request – an ideal hideaway to relax after exploring Crete’s hidden gems.
East Coast – 3. Manili 5-Star Boutique Hotel
Double Room
Indulge in modern elegance at our Manili 5-Star Boutique Hotel. The double room accommodates up to 2 guests and features a queen-size bed and a refrigerator. Refresh in a stylish bathroom with walk-in shower, toilet, and contemporary sink, complete with premium toiletries, towels, and slippers. Enjoy direct access to the shared terrace, perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation, surrounded by the charm of Crete’s East Coast.
Superior Room
Relax in the heart of the West Coast with our Superior Room, designed for up to two guests. Enjoy breathtaking, uninterrupted views of the Cretan Sea from a space of 25–31 m², where subtle luxury meets distinctive style. Each room comes with air conditioning, soundproof windows, cable/satellite TV, Wi-Fi, a coffee station, hairdryer, safe, minibar, bathrobes & slippers, and ironing facilities – everything you need for a comfortable and memorable stay.
Southeast Coast – 2. Mikros Kosmos Boutique Hotel
Type Alpha
Experience a cozy bungalow of 30 m², perfect for 1–2 guests. Step onto your large furnished terrace and unwind on the queen-size Coco-Mat bed. The room features a bar-desk, a luxurious bathroom with rain shower, coffee machine, safe, minibar, and TV or tablet on request – an ideal hideaway to relax after exploring Crete’s hidden gems.
East Coast – 3. Manili 5-Star Boutique Hotel
Double Room
Indulge in modern elegance at our Manili 5-Star Boutique Hotel. The double room accommodates up to 2 guests and features a queen-size bed and a refrigerator. Refresh in a stylish bathroom with walk-in shower, toilet, and contemporary sink, complete with premium toiletries, towels, and slippers. Enjoy direct access to the shared terrace, perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation, surrounded by the charm of Crete’s East Coast.
Breakfast - Buffet in all 3 Hotels
In Western Crete
Enjoy the old town of Chania, a true open-air museum. Be inspired by this melting pot of cultures and its vibrant weekly market. We have included two private day tours with our local guide, Mr. Iacovos, who will show you the island from its most authentic side. He will meet you at your hotel and take you on tailor-made day trips – let yourself be guided by Iacovos!
In Southern Crete and breathtaking scenery
Discover the legendary Hippie Caves, the ancient site of Gortys, and of course one of Crete’s most important archaeological treasures – Phaistos.
Museums & Archaeological Sites
Archanes offers a wealth of cultural gems, from the Archaeological Museum with finds from Fourni, Vathipetro, Tourkogeitonia, and the Minoan sanctuary of Youchtas, to the Folklore Museum, the Museum of the First and Second World War, and the Museum of Cretan History and Tradition. Also worth a visit is the Minoan Palace of Archanes, discovered in 1964 and closely connected to the Palace of Knossos.
Equally fascinating is the Morosini Aqueduct in the Agia Eirini Gorge. The world-famous Palace of Knossos, just 10 km from the Manili Boutique Suites and Villas, is steeped in myth – from the Labyrinth and the Minotaur to Daedalus and Icarus.
In Heraklion
you can explore the grand Archaeological Museum, as well as the Historical Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Venetian Morosini Fountain at Lion Square (1628). Don’t miss the Cathedral of Saint Minas or the St. Catherine of Sinai collection with its exceptional icons, manuscripts, and sacred objects.
Enjoy the old town of Chania, a true open-air museum. Be inspired by this melting pot of cultures and its vibrant weekly market. We have included two private day tours with our local guide, Mr. Iacovos, who will show you the island from its most authentic side. He will meet you at your hotel and take you on tailor-made day trips – let yourself be guided by Iacovos!
In Southern Crete and breathtaking scenery
Discover the legendary Hippie Caves, the ancient site of Gortys, and of course one of Crete’s most important archaeological treasures – Phaistos.
Museums & Archaeological Sites
Archanes offers a wealth of cultural gems, from the Archaeological Museum with finds from Fourni, Vathipetro, Tourkogeitonia, and the Minoan sanctuary of Youchtas, to the Folklore Museum, the Museum of the First and Second World War, and the Museum of Cretan History and Tradition. Also worth a visit is the Minoan Palace of Archanes, discovered in 1964 and closely connected to the Palace of Knossos.
Equally fascinating is the Morosini Aqueduct in the Agia Eirini Gorge. The world-famous Palace of Knossos, just 10 km from the Manili Boutique Suites and Villas, is steeped in myth – from the Labyrinth and the Minotaur to Daedalus and Icarus.
In Heraklion
you can explore the grand Archaeological Museum, as well as the Historical Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Venetian Morosini Fountain at Lion Square (1628). Don’t miss the Cathedral of Saint Minas or the St. Catherine of Sinai collection with its exceptional icons, manuscripts, and sacred objects.
Ideas & inspiration for your vacation by kreta.com:
This self-drive winter tour, Winter Bliss in Crete, takes you on a 14-day journey through Crete, staying in three small comfort boutique hotels on the West Coast, South Coast, and East Coast. The package includes: a Category B rental car (Polo size), and two private day tours with a local guide. Accommodation is in carefully selected small top-comfort hotels, with breakfast included. Price per person starting from €1,381 in Double occupancy. ( flights are not included)