Velani Country Hotel: Your Cretan Getaway
Velani Country Hotel is a chill and charming spot tucked away in the Cretan countryside, not far from the traditional village of Avdou. Surrounded by beautiful nature, it’s the perfect place to kick back and relax. The views are amazing – you’ve got the Langada Valley and Aposelemis Lake stretching out below, and the Dikti Mountains rising up behind. You might even see some eagles soaring around!
The hotel itself is built with local stone, which gives it a really cool, natural vibe. Inside, it’s got a classic style that’s perfect for those long summer nights. There’s a reception and bar area with a huge balcony – great for sipping on Greek coffee or raki. And the Velani Restaurant has a terrace where you can enjoy some delicious Cretan food made with fresh, local ingredients.
The hotel’s got 12 rooms spread out in 2 bungalows, so you’ll definitely find some peace and quiet. All the rooms are big and comfy, and they all have awesome views. There are even some wellness rooms with their own private saunas!
There’s also a big infinity pool with a separate kiddie pool, and a Jacuzzi where you can chill out. If you’re feeling a bit more active, you can sign up for horse riding, hiking, biking, yoga, or even paragliding. And if you just want to relax, you can always get a massage.
Room Types:
- Classic Double Room: Chill ground-floor room with a king-size bed or twin beds, perfect for couples.
- Panorama Family Suite: First-floor suite with one bedroom, an open-plan living area, and a balcony with killer views. Great for families.
- Superior Family Suite: Ground-floor suite with two connecting bedrooms, each with its own bathroom and terrace. Perfect for bigger families or groups.
- Panorama Wellness Suite: First-floor suite with a private sauna and jacuzzi, a balcony with panoramic views, and a patio with sunbeds and an outdoor shower.
- Superior Wellness Suite: Top-floor suite with all the bells and whistles – a private garden, sauna, jacuzzi, balcony, and amazing views.
What to Do:
- Hang out by the infinity pool or in the Jacuzzi
- Go horseback riding at the Odysseia Stables
- Hike or bike in the surrounding countryside
- Try paragliding
- Take a yoga class
- Get a massage
- Learn how to cook some Cretan dishes
- Visit the nearby Aposelemis Lake or the ancient site of Lyttos
Location:
Velani Country Hotel is in a great spot – it’s in the middle of Crete, about 40km east of Heraklion. You’re far enough away from the touristy areas to experience the real Crete, but you’re still close enough to the coast if you fancy a day at the beach.
The landscapes we rode through were breathtaking. We saw rugged hillsides, olive groves, and rocky paths that opened up to expansive views of the countryside. One of the highlights was spotting vultures soaring overhead-an incredible sight that added a wild, untouched feel to our rides.
Hotel Vilani was the perfect base.
The rooms were comfortable, with plenty of seating inside and out to relax after a day of riding. The food was an experience in itself-authentic Cretan cuisine made from local ingredients, delicious and hearty.
This is an absolute must for horse riders seeking to experience the culture and hospitality of Crete on well-cared-for, fit horses. A huge thank you to Sabine, Manolis, Nicos, Marianne, and Iris for making our stay truly special. We can't recommend this adventure enough!
Equestrian center in the hotel with reasonable prices and nice swimming pool.
Only downside: the breakfast which was not local (no feta, no fresh bread, no olive oil). There were few people in charge of service when we were there and so the gentleman was overwhelmed and did his best.
Lieu superbe, vue splendide et très fleuri. Calme tranquillité, piscine assez profonde pour nager, chaises longues avec douches et proche des chambres, terrasse du restaurant avec très belle vue sur les montagnes. Jolies chambres avec cheminée pierres apparentes, lits simples, fermes et un peu étroits, salle de bain spacieuse.
Petit déjeuner très complet avec produits frais, servi à table.
Service efficace et agréable.
Écuries à l'opposé des chambres.
Lieu idéal pour se ressourcer, faire de l'équitation et lire.
Parking à l'entrée à disposition.
À recommander
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