Backstage
11. December 2019
Experience the originality and nature of Crete in Potamos
Country Special, Greece
4. December 2019
10 places in Crete that you have to see
In these houses, which are over 300 years old, a very special atmosphere can be felt, in which the stress of modern life can be shaken off very quickly. If you want to spend your days relaxed, this is the place for you. Aspros Potamos is the oldest settlement in the Pefki area. It is located in southeastern Crete, a thousand meters above sea level and the coastal town of Makrys Gialos.
The holiday begins with a warm welcome from the owner Mirto, whose mother discovered the facility around 30 years ago on a holiday, learned to love it and renovated it carefully. For Mirto, Aspros Potamos is not just a hotel, but a home that opens to guests from all over the world.
The equipment of the traditional accommodations is very simple and ecologically efficient, but offers everything you need - provided that sockets are not included. The mobile devices can of course still be charged: in the cozy, small common room, where you can also have a nice chat with the other guests.
The reduction of the hotel complex to the essentials makes it easy to get involved in the fascinating landscape of the place. The cottages are surrounded by rocks in a beautiful gorge in which the so-called "white river" (Aspros Potamos) meanders. The gorge is the ideal starting point for many beautiful hikes or visits to one of the original mountain villages.
It is only 1,000 meters to the village by the sea, where there are good regional Cretan shops and many cozy taverns. On the coast there is everything you long for, from the lonely pebbly beach bay to the sandy beach in Makry-Gialos with its enormously clear, turquoise water. In the bars you can enjoy your drinks undisturbed for hours in sun loungers with parasols.
Aspros Potamos is far from the large tourist areas. The closeness to nature, the silence, the friendly, warm and yet discreet interaction with each other corresponds to the Cretan way of life. After just a few days in the hotel, this spreads as a cozy feeling in the visitor.
If you like, you can take a look backstage on our blog. You can read more about the region in our country special.
Rooms + Rates
per night
| Cottage | from40 € |
Sustainable
ArchitectureThe ten stone houses stand in the middle of nature, on a slope between densely overgrown mountains and valleys with intensely green foliage. The houses in the complex were built 300 years ago and renovated in 2011. The preservation of the original windows and stone walls, ceilings with crossed beams, use of straw for the insulation of the floors help to keep the traditional look. Thick stone outer walls keep the houses cool in summer and warm in winter. The decoration of the rooms is simple and simple. Original objects such as small tables, furniture made of old wood, accessories for traditional bread making, old fabrics and pots and pans support the traditional atmosphere. The beds are also made of rock - but of course equipped with pleasant mattresses that ensure a peaceful sleep. The houses are connected by a network of traditional stone paths.
FoodThe delicious breakfast can be optionally booked every day for just seven euros per person. The extensive selection consists of freshly prepared toasted breads, egg dishes, poor Cretan knights, feta pancakes, yoghurt, porridge, fruits and much more. The cottages have a 2-burner gas stove for making coffee and simple dishes. There is also a grill.
EnvironmentOnly renewable energy sources are used in Aspros Potamos. A photovoltaic system has been installed on the site, which has already won a prize, and the electricity it produces supplies the lighting systems in the gardens, reading lamps above beds, light in the bathroom, and also the refrigerators in the kitchen. This system also produces hot water for the shower. Candles and oil lamps provide the main lighting in the houses. There are no outlets in the houses. In the reception room, however, guests can charge any electrical device and also use the free WiFi network.
Characteristics
- Original Greek cottages in an idyllic setting
- Minimalist but cozy furnishings
- Ideal starting point for beautiful hikes
- Dream beaches nearby
- For nature lovers and families, ideal to switch off
- Season from early April to late October
Features
- 10 cottages with fireplaces, kitchenettes and refrigerators
- Reception with common room and library
- Transfer from the airport possible
- Breakfast can be prepared on request
- Free WiFi
- No sockets in the houses
- Beach equipment can be provided
- Bed linen and towels are provided
- Barbecue
Visit Website
Rooms + Rates
per night
| Cottage | from40 € |
Location + Directions
By plane
From the airport in Heraklion it takes just under 2 hours by car to Aspros Potamos (122 km). A transfer is possible on request. There is also the option of taking the bus from the airport to Makry Gialis and getting picked up from the bus stop. You will receive the exact address and directions with the booking.
More about this accommodation on our blog
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