CreteTravel

Our View

Kapsaliana Village Hotel, a unique holiday experience in a village which has been fully restored in full harmony with nature and with high respect to the history and architecture of Crete.

Nestled in the peaceful surroundings of the historical area of the famous Arkadiou Monastery in Rethimno region with wonderful views of the Cretan countryside and Cretan sea.

A place that evokes the true spirit of Crete, a hotel that combines history, nature, Cretan traditions, culture, and hospitality in the best possible way.

A unique place of natural beauty, surrounded by one of the largest olive groves on the island, peace, and tranquility, where accommodation facilities are fully harmonized with the enchanting landscape.

Kapsaliana Village Hotel is a beautifully restored historical hamlet with an old olive press, transformed into a luxurious, stylish, and peaceful country retreat hotel and museum.

Twelve original houses, clustered around the old Olive Press, have been restored and converted into lavish, elegant guest houses.

Six new houses have been added in the same architectural form. Spread over various old stone houses, separated by flag-stoned terraces and flights of steps, rooms and suites are beautiful, large and pleasantly uncluttered designed with bold wooden beams, mighty stone walls, and the occasional farm utensil/modern art sculpture.

They offer plenty of comfort and discreet luxury – superb beds, comfy sofas, large showers, delicately embroidered robes, natural beauty products – but nothing is over the top.

Fantastic meals, combined with friendly and hospitable service, prepared by a top chef are served in the charming restaurant of Kapsaliana Village Hotel and there are two sitting rooms where you can cuddle up by the open fire on chilly days; one is in the old olive press which doubles as a small museum.

Outside, you’ll find large terraces and pleasant gardens, an inviting swimming pool, and views stretching all the way to the sea.

Kapsaliana was part of the Arkadi Monastery, a national sanctuary with a colorful history of courage and sacrifice. The story of the settlement starts in 1600 with the construction of the church and continues with the creation of the olive oil mill in 1763.

More people then came to this beautiful area to work on the olive trees and land and built their own stone houses around the olive oil mill which, during the peak era, accommodated 13 families and 50 people.

Nowadays, the settlement of Kapsaliana has been converted with love and artistry into a unique hotel by the new owner, architect Myron Toupogianis.

With particular care and diligent work the olive oil mill, the church, and the utility rooms were gradually transformed into rooms and suites, restaurant, swimming pool, and lounges.

Why We Like It

- It's the best of two worlds: an ideal place to disconnect and travel back in time, but with plenty of modern comforts.

- Far from the city bustle, the hotel is full of interesting objects with cool stone and pale colors giving a feeling of relaxation.

- What better of warm service and the feeling of being a distinguished guest at a unique place.

- Maybe the most delicious and healthy food you could find on the island. Wine is great too!

Good To Know

- Please note that not every room has a view due to the architecture of the village. Also due to the stone walls and relatively small windows, some rooms are less bright.

- We recommend that you rent a car as other means of transport are limited and/or infrequent. (You cannot reach Kapsaliana Village Hotel by public transport).

The Rooms & Suites

Twelve original houses, clustered around the old Olive Press, have been restored and converted into lavish, elegant guest houses.

Six new houses have been added in the same architectural form. The total capacity of the hotel 51 people.

Spread over various old stone houses, separated by flag-stoned terraces and flights of steps, rooms and suites are beautiful, large and pleasantly uncluttered designed with bold wooden beams, mighty stone walls, and the occasional farm utensil/modern art sculpture and they offer plenty of comfort and discreet luxury – superb beds, comfy sofas, large showers, delicately embroidered robes, natural beauty products – but nothing is over the top.

The clear Cretan sky, pure air, and limpid light were the source of inspiration for giving to the rooms and suites of the Kapsaliana Village Hotel names of stars and constellations.

- CYGNUS - Single Room ( up to 1 people ) :
The constellation Cygnus is one of the most beautiful in the night sky. It is also one of the most beautiful star formations resembling a swan with open wings ready to fly.
Located on the ground floor in the Kapsaliana Village Hotel, the “Cygnus” is a small single room with an arched entrance leading to the bed. This is an ideal choice for single travelers or families with a child who would prefer a separate room.

- ERIDANUS - Classic Double (up to 2 people) :
Eridanus was an ancient Greek river god and his name can be found in many countries around the Mediterranean. Eridanus is also one of the largest constellations in the sky that resembles a big river.
This double room, ideal for couples, has a bedroom with a double bed or twin beds, a sitting corner by a decorative fireplace, and a dressing room next to the bathroom. It is centrally located in front of the spacious paved square, which is a continuation of the courtyard of the old olive mill. It is close to the pool and has a sitting area in front of the room with a table, chairs, and umbrella.
Tip: The Double Room “Eridanus” used to be the home of the so-called “tritaris”, i.e. the man who was responsible for the cultivation of the surrounding fields of the monastery and who took 1/3 of the harvest.

- HYADES - Classic Double (up to 2 people) :
The Hyades were the daughters of ancient god Atlas. When their brother died, they cried so much that Zeus transformed them into stars. The constellation Hyades has been known since ancient times and is linked to rainfall in many countries.
This room has a double bed or twin beds and a fireplace, with the original wooden beams. It is centrally located in front of the spacious paved square, which is a continuation of the courtyard of the old olive mill.

- KENTAVROS - Classic Double (up to 2 people) :
Kentavros is among the most famous creatures of Greek mythology. Half horse & half-man, centaurs play a significant role in many mythological stories. It is also the name of a large constellation that can be seen in the Greek skies especially during spring.
Kentavros Double Room, is a spacious double room with a living room corner and a bedroom with double bed or twin beds and a beautiful view over the gorge, the western part of the village, and the green hill full of myrtle. Located on the first floor, it also features a small balcony at the entrance of the room.

- IZAR “WITH TERRACE” - Classic Double ( up to 2 people) :
Known since antiquity, Izar is the brightest star of the constellation called Boötes, located right in the center of this famous constellation.
The double room “Izar” has one bedroom with a double bed or 2 single beds, a fireplace, and a private terrace. It is located on the first floor of the complex opposite the old olive mill. The room can be connected with the room “Altair” and make a comfortable single space with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 terraces, and separate entrances.
Tip: During the period of operation of the olive mill, in these rooms lived the women from the surrounding villages who came to Kapsaliana for the olive harvest.

- ALTAIR “WITH TERRACE” - Classic Double ( up to 2 people) :
Altair is the brightest star of the constellation Aquila. In the Arabic language, the name Altair means “flying eagle” and is the twelfth brightest star in the sky.
The bright star of Altair gives its name to a classic double room at the Kapsaliana Village Hotel. It features a bedroom with a double bed or twin beds a private terrace and doors that connect it with the room “Izar”. The room “Altair” has a wonderful view over the olive groves and the sea, while its stone staircase connects the terrace of the room with the pool. It is ideal for couples looking for a cozy room or families, as space can be connected to the adjacent room “Izar”.

- BERENICES - Superior Double ( up to 3 people ) :
Queen Berenices of Egypt devoted her blond hair in the temple of the goddess Venus as an offer for her husband’s safe return from the war. The next day, Berenices’ hair disappeared from the temple and the legend suggests that the gods took it to the skies and turned them into shining stars.
“Berenices” is a superior double room that has a small sitting corner, where the sofa can host an extra person, a double bed or twin beds, and a fireplace. The private terrace offers a lovely view of the lush western side of the village and the sea. The room is located on the first floor of the complex.

- LIBRA - Superior Double (up to 2 people) :
Libra is one of the largest constellations in the sky. It is visible from Greece and you can enjoy views of the Libra constellation from the homonymous superior double room of the Kapsaliana Village Hotel.
This room has a spacious bedroom with a double bed or twin beds, a beautiful bathroom, a dressing room, and a sitting corner. The room can comfortably accommodate a couple. It also has a private entrance, its courtyard with fragrant flowers, and parking space outside the door of the courtyard. From the large private terrace, you can enjoy the beautiful views of the canyon.
The “Libra” room can be connected to the “Hydra” room and be transformed into a lovely house with 2 bedrooms, a living room, 2 bathrooms, a fireplace, a patio, and a private entrance.-

- HYDRA - Superior Double ( up to 3 people ) :
Hydra is a mythological creature killed by Hercules and the largest constellation in the sky.
Hydra has a small living room and a sofa that can accommodate 1 child, a fireplace, and an archway that connects to the bedroom with a double bed or twin beds. The suite is located on the ground floor and overlooks the west side of the village and the canyon with myrtles. The suite “Hydra” can be connected to the “Libra” room and transformed into a lovely house with 2 bedrooms, a living room, 2 bathrooms, a fireplace, a patio, and a private entrance.

- PERSEUS - Traditional Junior Suite ( up to 3 people) :
Perseus is a constellation in the northern sky and was named after the ancient Greek hero Perseus, who saved Andromeda and killed Medusa the Gorgon monster. The constellation of Perseus is one of the biggest stars in the night sky.
Perseus is a comfortable suite with a traditional arch that connects the living room to the bedroom with a double bed. It is decorated with authentic Cretan elements located on the ground floor of the central building complex.
Tip: There is an authentic Cretan oven at the entrance of the suite.

- SIRIUS - Traditional Junior Suite (up to 4 people) :
Sirius means ‘bright’ and so Sirius is the brightest of all the stars in the night sky being visible from all over the world.
Search for Sirius in the sky while staying in the homonymous suite of the Kapsaliana Village Hotel. The suite has a living room with a sofa bed that can become 2 single beds suitable for 1 or 2 children, and is connected by a traditional arch with the bedroom that has old beams and a fireplace. This is an ideal choice for families with one or two children.

- ANDROMEDA - Superior Junior Suite ( up to 2 people) :
Andromeda’s mother, Cassiopeia, claimed that her daughter was more beautiful than the Nereids, the daughters of Poseidon. The Nereids demanded Andromeda’s punishment and she was chained to a rock by the sea, where a beast, the Cetus was sent to find and kill her. Fortunately, Perseus found her first, killed the monster, saved, and married Andromeda.
This is the beautiful story of Andromeda, and “Andromeda” at the Kapsaliana Village Hotel is a beautiful Superior Suite with a loft where is the bedroom and a bright living room with a large fireplace. The suite also features a private terrace with beautiful views over the square of the village. Ideal for couples who want an outstanding place for their stay in Crete.

- AQUARIUS - Superior Junior Suite ( up to 2 people):
It looks like a young man that pours water and its name is connected to many ancient Greek myths.
This unique junior suite is located in the center of the Kapsaliana Village Hotel, overlooking the terrace with the restaurant’s pergola. The «Aquarius» suite has a beautiful arch in the middle connecting the sleeping area to the terrace and the sitting corner with the fireplace to the northern terrace. Walk up the stone stairs to sit in the large terrace with a wonderful view over the olive groves and the sea. The large terrace on the north side has its entrance and direct access to the outdoor parking space. It is an ideal choice for both winter and summer holidays and a great choice for couples looking for a peaceful and quiet stay.

- CASSIOPEIA- Superior Junior Suite ( up to 3 people):
One of the most famous queens of Ethiopia, Andromeda’s mother, gives its name to one of the most distinctive constellations. According to the legend related to the structure of the star, Cassiopeia is sitting on her throne.
The comfortable, two-room suite Cassiopeia features a living room and a bedroom with a double bed. Each room has its own private terrace, while the suite has also a dressing room. It is located on the floor of the main building complex with a beautiful view from the private terrace over the lush western side of the village. Ideal for couples who want to spend their holidays in Crete in a delightful room.

- ORION - Superior Junior Suite ( up to 2 people):
A famous Greek hunter gave his name to one of the largest constellations in the sky. The stunning star of Orion is visible from all over the world.
Orion is a beautiful and comfortable suite, suitable for couples, located on the floor of the main building, the olive mill. It features a spacious living room where an arch leads to the bedroom with double bed and fireplace. From the private terrace, you can enjoy a wonderful sea view and search for the beautiful star of Orion, while the windows overlook the village square full of lemon and orange trees.

- PEGASUS - Superior Junior Suite ( up to 2 people):
The son of Poseidon and Medusa was a horse with wings. Pegasus played a key role in the story of Perseus, but his name is present in many other Greek myths. Pegasus also gives its name to a large and bright star.
Pegasus Suite is spliced with stone walls, has a sitting corner, and a double bed wherefrom the terrace you will enjoy the panoramic view over the olive grove and sea. This is the perfect choice for couples who want to combine a relaxing stay in a traditionally decorated room with a large private terrace.

- PLEIADES - Family Suite ( up to 4 people ) :
Bright and famous, the Pleiades constellation was named after the daughters of Atlas, who were the companions of the goddess Artemis. Many poems and songs have been written to describe the beauty and brightness of these stars.
The Pleiades is a spacious, 2-room suite with a sitting area, fireplace, and bedroom. Both the living room and the bedroom have access to the terrace with the pergola and the garden. The suite overlooks the lush hillside and is ideal for families looking for a unique suite to stay in Crete. Ideal for families with children because of the outdoor protected space.

- OLIVE MILL - Exclusive Suite ( up to 4 people)
Olive Oil Mill Suite was originally an 18th-century private olive mill. The open plan suite is located side by side as a continuation of our historic olive oil museum. Part of the room’s ancient decoration is a historic millstone and an underground oil tern protected by glass floors. Within 80m2, the spacious suite features a double bedroom that is separated from its two seating areas with a large stone arch. The first seating area can accommodate an extra person while the second one is where the historically preserved items are placed. The Olive Mill Suite also encompasses a modern waterfall bathroom. It has no exterior sitting area.

- Please find more images of suites & check prices here!

Eating

You will eat very well at Kapsaliana Hotel.

- The restaurant of the Kapsaliana Village Hotel is the ideal spot to discover the local cuisine and enjoy unique gastronomic experiences from morning till night. The chef at the Kapsaliana prepares modern takes on traditional fare, such as a pork stew with oranges, nuts, and dried fruits, or chounkiar begenti, braised veal served over eggplant puree. All the dishes feature traditional Cretan elements, such as olives, lemons, artichokes, wild sage, oregano, thyme, and marjoram, and of course, the island’s own world-famous olive oil. It is styled around a typical Cretan kitchen, with wooden tables and chairs, white arched walls, and bright tapestries.

- A relaxed breakfast is served here daily with a highly tempting buffet, full of local products, freshly made bread, local cheeses (like the Cretan ricotta and the famous gruyere), eggs, fresh fruits, jams, honey, cold deli meats (like apaki and syglino), cereals and juices.

- Lunch. During lunchtime at the restaurant, you will find delicious snacks and dishes made with local products from small farms and the vegetable garden of the Kapsaliana Hotel. The chef follows the principles of Slow Food, preparing delicious Cretan dishes with local products and raw materials that are carefully selected and cooked in a unique way.

- Dinner is a unique experience. The menu á la carte offers a great variety of delicious Cretan dishes for dinner. Start with raki, the favorite drink of the island, and traditional appetizers. Enjoy dishes like chicken with yogurt, raisins and purslane, roasted lamb or goat, and many vegetarian dishes. Finish with a dessert from a recipe coming from the Minoan era: the “gastrin” is made with dried fruits and is the ancestor of the famous Greek dessert called baklavas.

- Menu- degustation: Every night 4 to 5 special dishes are prepared so that you can savor even more flavors. Also, every Thursday a special menu- degustation with dishes from the Cretan cuisine- is accompanied by the appropriate wine from the local vineyard offering a unique gastronomic experience.

- Olive oil tasting: In the Kapsaliana Village Hotel we organize tasting sessions to discover all the secrets and unique flavors of olive oil produced in Crete and the region. With dark green or golden colors, full of flavor and density, the olive oils of the island will enchant you.

- Private dinner: Do you want to enjoy a meal just for you and your loved ones or a private dinner for two? In the restaurant of the Kapsaliana Village Hotel, you have the opportunity to enjoy extraordinary gastronomic experiences created exclusively for you.

- Breakfast from 8.30am–11am; lunch between 1pm–3.30pm; dine between 7pm and 10pm.

- Room Service: Drinks can be ordered from 9 am and 7 pm. There are no in-room snacks but you can stock up on nibbles from the pool bar.

- Hotel Pool Bar: During the restaurant’s opening hours, drinks are served in the lounge area. The zingy home-made lemonade is worth being teetotal for. There's an honesty bar of sorts by the pool, stocked with drinks and ice-creams. You can also use the pool bar's telephone to have food brought to you.

There are not many eating-out alternatives in the direct surroundings of Kapsaliana, just a few local village tavernas, but if you want a change you can drive for an evening out to the old town of Rethymno, which has a great choice of restaurants. Ask Brigitte to give you some recommendations and make reservations.

Kids

Children are welcome at Kapsaliana Village Hotel.

Kapsaliana Village Hotel is a wonderful place for family holidays, even if It doesn't offer the facilities and entertainment of a family big resort. Families, will love the hotel due to the shortage of children facilities they will rediscover some simple but valued pleasures in life: discover and enjoy nature, short and long walks, communication, go slowly, smile breath. And, in the summer, there is great pleasure, always, of the swimming pool.

Almost all rooms and suites are spacious and a few of them have one or two extra beds for children. Besides, two double rooms can interconnect to work as a family suite.

Activities

- The Kapsaliana Village Hotel is located near the small and picturesque town of Rethymno and is a great destination all year round.

- Spend a day at Kapsaliana Village: Arrival. Your arrival at Kapsaliana Village Hotel is special. The people of the hotel will offer you a glass of fresh lemonade or a liqueur, along with traditional Cretan delicacies, while you learn the historical background of Kapsaliana by watching a specially made video. Breakfast at Kapsaliana Village Hotel near Rethymnon in Crete is a delicious and tasty experience. After a restful and rejuvenating sleep in the comfortable beds of your room or suite, take the first breath of the day filled with the aromas of thyme, sage, and Cretan herbs from the window or the terrace of your room. Then head to the restaurant to enjoy your breakfast at Kapsaliana Village Hotel. Local products from local producers, cheese, yogurt, fresh bread, eggs, honey make your first meal of the day a delicious and energizing experience. Breakfast suggestions change daily so that you can try even more flavors of Crete. After breakfast, you can start exploring the sites of Kapsaliana Village Hotel. Discover the restored olive mill, which was built 250 years ago and was actually the main reason the village of Kapsaliana was built. Also, visit the church and places nearby that are harmonically integrated with nature. You can watch the process of bread-making, visit the vegetable garden, shop local products, or attend an olive oil tasting session. Depending on the season, you can spend the day by the pool of Kapsaliana Village Hotel, or exploring the surrounding area. The pool- bar of Kapsaliana Village Hotel in summer and the lounge in winter are preparing light snacks, fresh juices, coffees, and drinks for you all day round. Noon. A light meal in the restaurant will fill you with the necessary energy to continue. You can also enjoy your meal in your room. Afternoon. Ask for a bike and information on trails in the surrounding areas to start exploring the beautiful Cretan land. As you exit the hotel, you will immediately find yourself in a beautiful natural environment where olives, carob, trees, herbs, and flowers are growing and you can take short or long trips. You can get to the Margarites village, which has a long tradition in pottery and follow lessons on pottery making. If you stay at the hotel and want more relaxation, you can do yoga or massage that will rejuvenate you in the best way, or take cooking lessons. The nights at Kapsaliana Village Hotel are a feast for all the senses. Enjoy the Cretan and Mediterranean cuisine in the hotel restaurant. Under the stars or in the cozy interior ambiance of the restaurant you will experience a relaxing experience with your favorite drink or a glass of local wine.

- Spring in Kapsaliana Village Hotel: A wonderful period to visit Kapsaliana Village Hotel to enjoy the blossoming flowers, air overflew with natural aromas, wildflowers, and other herbs that thrive in the area create a unique natural atmosphere.

- Spring activities. Spring is the perfect season for lovers of walking and cycling, while in May you can visit the nearby beaches or celebrate the first day of May. The period of Easter is also a special experience as you will live the magic and solemnity of the feast. At the Monastery of Arkadi, you will follow the procession of the Epitaph and the Resurrection of the Lord celebrated with brilliance in an evocative atmosphere.

- Summer in Kapsaliana Village Hotel: The summer is undoubtedly one of the best times to enjoy the beauty of Kapsaliana and Crete. Sweet warm weather, cool evening breezes, and wonderful sunshine allow you to discover all surrounding areas, swim in crystal clear waters of the nearby beaches, visit all highlight attractions, enjoy the sun by the pool of Kapsaliana Village Hotel near Rethymnon, and relax in the tranquillity of the landscape. Live an unforgettable Greek summer experience staying in our exceptional hotel.

- Summer activities. Swimming is one of the experiences that should not be missed. Yoga and massage in the hotel walks and bike rides in the surrounding areas will bring you closer to the beauty of the region.

- Autumn in Kapsaliana Village Hotel: Thanks to its geographical position at the southernmost region of Europe, Crete continues to have sunshine during the autumn months. Especially in September and October, temperatures are high enough to enjoy your holiday visiting the points of interest in less crowded conditions. Autumn is the most romantic period in Kapsaliana Village Hotel and the serenity of the landscape creates a dreamlike atmosphere.

- Autumn activities. September in Kapsaliana Village is the month when grapes are picked and the traditional raki of Crete is produced. The people of the hotel will provide you all the necessary information about the places where you can watch the entire process. In autumn starts the period of the olive harvest (October and November) and this is an experience you have to live if you are in Kapsaliana Village Hotel at that time. Do not miss the festival in the Monastery of Arkadi (November 8th) and the Arcadian Mini Marathon held annually, which attracts runners from all over the island.

- Winter in Kapsaliana Village Hotel: Winter is a beautiful time to visit Crete and particularly the Kapsaliana Village Hotel. The rooms and suites with wood and stone create a warm atmosphere. Most rooms and suites have a fireplace, creating an idyllic ambiance for you and your company. The living room of the Kapsaliana Village Hotel is the perfect place to enjoy your cup of coffee in winter.

- Winter activities. For those who love hiking and skiing, a visit to Psiloritis mountain is unforgettable. During Christmas and New Year the Kapsaliana Village Hotel is preparing a series of festive surprises for visitors, while in February the great carnival of Rethymno gives you another reason to visit Crete and have fun with your friends! Finally, lovers can celebrate Valentine’s Day in the unique romantic suites of the Kapsaliana Village Hotel.

More to do ...

- If you are looking for quiet and like to go walking, you won’t even have to use your car. The monastery of Arkadiou is about a 1,5-hour hike from the hotel. Otherwise, if you can tear yourself away from the pool and you are in for some more exploring, the beach is only 8 km from the hotel, the old town of Rethymno is a 20-minute drive, and the possibilities for longer excursions are endless

- The historic Arkadi Monastery has located only 4km from the Kapsaliana Village Hotel. It is the second most visited place in Crete after the archaeological site of Knossos. Being the main center of the Cretans in their struggle for independence, the Arkadi Monastery played a highly significant role during the Ottoman Occupation. The peak of this struggle was in 1866 when they blasted the gunpowder warehouse in order not to surrender to the Turks. Visiting the monastery today, you have the chance to admire the different eras of its history wandering around the church at the center of the monastery, the museum, and the surrounding areas. The Monastery celebrates on November 8th when the Arkadian running race is held with the participation of all age groups running a distance of 18km. The Monastery is also celebrated on May 21st and August 6th, when it is really worth visiting in case you are in the Kapsaliana Village Hotel in spring or summer.

- Eleftherna. A highly important archeological site, where you can follow the entire sequence of the development of the village during different historical periods. Eleftherna was built in the 9th century B.C. by the Dorian settlers and prospered until the year 796 when it was destroyed by both the attacks of the Arabs and a tremendous earthquake. Extensive excavations brought into light interesting findings, such as the organized cemetery of the Geometric Age and the water tanks, among many others. It goes without saying that Eleftherna is the most important archeological site of Western Crete. An archeological museum exhibiting all findings from the area is expected to open its doors in September 2015.

- The itinerary ‘Kapsaliana – Arkadi – Eleftherna – Margarites’ is enchanting and characteristic of the Cretan landscape. The morphology of the land, the view, and the natural beauty render the experience of this journey unique. Finally, the area called Amari which is southern of Kapsaliana comprising many villages is one of the most beautiful corners of the Cretan mainland giving you the chance to enjoy a truly simple and natural way of living in Crete.

- Visit Marianna's Workshop at a tiny small village of Maroulas. She is a specialist in tea-mixtures and oil essences from native plants which helps to allay many complaints in a natural way. Marianna does come from Crete, and her knowledge of the Cretan plant life was in no way passed down to her from her grandmother.

- Join one of our ceramic workshops at Margarites Village. Pottery is one of the oldest arts developed in Crete.

- Argyroupoli Village (27 km southwest of Rethymnon) is built on the ruins of the ancient city of Lappa, one of the most important Roman cities in western Crete – of which very few remnants survive. Being in the foothills of the Lefka Ori is a watery oasis formed by springs, keeping the temperature markedly cooler, ideal for fine walking and hiking as well. The upper and lower village is well preserved and many of the Venetian mansions are still residences. Inside and around the village are excavated parts of the ancient city, Roman remains, Venetian buildings with beautiful doorways, and Byzantine churches.

- The springs and the waterfalls that are located at one edge of the village are of great interest and attract many tourists during the summer. There are many taverns with tasty Cretan food at Argiroupoli.

- Many of the paths on the surrounding hills are perfect for trekking and you should visit Kourna Lake, the only natural lake on the island.

- When you feel like a swim in the sea, drive up to the coast and find your favorite spot on the 8.5 km beach that stretches from Skaleta Georgioupoli to Rethymno.

- Or maybe head to the southern coast for some stunning beaches. It’s a 1 – 1.5-hour drive to get to them, but you will be rewarded with some of the best beaches in Crete. Preveli Beach with its palm tree grove at the exit of the Kourtaliotikos Gorge is well-known, for good reasons.

- Visit Roustika village and its some narrow cobblestone streets, arches, old houses, and the lovely traditional kafeneio by the square. Other village sights are the church of Panagia (Holy Mary) dating 1100, with very rare frescoes; the museum of traditional costumes from all over Greece; the Monastery of Profitis Elias built-in 1200.

- Other village sights are the church of Panagia (Holy Mary) dating 1100, with very rare frescoes; the museum of traditional costumes from all over Greece; the Monastery of Profitis Elias built-in 1200.

- Find the E4 walking path passes just outside Roustika and enjoy the superb gorges and the beautiful nature around.

- During the summer, many traditional festivals take place in nearby regions. Therefore, maybe you are going to have the opportunity to experience traditional Cretan music and dancing.

- And if you can prize yourself away from this lovely little village and your "country seat" within it, there is much opportunity for splendid drives and exploration in the center of Crete, with its impressive mountains and friendly villages. Stretching your journey for 25 minutes in one direction you can be on sandy beaches or the old town of Rethymno. In the other direction (to the south), in 20-30 minutes, you are on yet another coast and dipping toes in the Libyan sea.

- Explore Rethymno's old town and especially the waterfront and streets just behind. Walk along the harbor wall to the Venetian lighthouse. The Fortezza (fortress) was built by the Venetians (1573) to protect the city. Not only are walls, church, and the remains of its buildings of interest, the views from it to the town are a great way to start planning your tour of the town. There are also sweeping sea views. Open daily.

- Don't miss visiting Rethimnon's Archaeological Museum which occupies a building almost directly opposite the entrance to the fortress. It's worth a look especially if you are going to the bigger museums in other towns. Here you could enjoy Minoan pottery and sarcophagi and lots of Roman coins, jewelry, pots, and statues, all from Rethimno province. Take a look at an unusual unfinished Roman statue of Aphrodite.

- Visit the 17th-century Monastery of Preveli which perched high above the sea on the south Crete. In its cloistered closed courtyard, there is a fountain with the Greek inscription "Wash your sins, not only your face". There are also breathtaking views out to sea towards the distant and chunky-looking Paximadhia islands which have lent their name to the tooth-cracking lumps of twice-baked bread served up with mezedes in the island's kafenia.

- Very close there is the sandy Palm Beach of Preveli, a sand-filled cove right at the end of the Kourtaliotiko gorge, where a freshwater estuary feeds a little oasis complete with palm grove and a cluster of oleanders ( at the beginning and the end of the season it is lovely).

- Other valuable visits: Armeni Minoan site, Argyroupoli (ancient Lappa) where the sound of water from springs cascades through this refreshing, taverna-laden village. Eleftherna, Axos, Zominthos archaeological sites. Amongst the significantly enjoyable, old, and historic villages: Episkopi, Spili, Amari (valley), Monastiraki, Anogia.

- Head west along the coast (60km) to explore the small, picturesque, and maybe the most enjoyable of Crete's larger towns, Chania. With its Venetian-era fishing harbor, crumbling masonry, and web of alleys, it is an extraordinarily attractive town, especially if you are there in spring when the Lefka Ori's snowcapped peaks seem to hover above the roofs. Don't forget to visit the Archaeological Museum, housed in a former church, plus the romantic cobbled alleys lined with arty boutiques and a market selling local handicrafts.

- More activities around More uplifting activities around Rethimno Area

House Rules

- Check-in: 14.00 pm
- Check out: 12.00 pm
- Minimum Stay: 2-3 nights, depending on the season

- Payment Policy: Please check here!
- Cancellation Policy: Please check here!

MHTE: 1041KO70A0196600

How To Get There

The romantic and atmospheric Kapsaliana Village Hotel is a beautifully green and peaceful spot in the hilly countryside near Rethymno in Crete.

- By Air
From May through mid-October there are direct charter flights to Chania (85km ) and, more frequently, to the capital Heraklion (79km). Tickets can be bought in advance for almost all flights via our partner website.

- By Sea
"The journey is the thing". A superb way of enjoying the journey to Crete is to fly to Athens and take the ferry from Piraeus (Pireas) - the port serving Athens. A still-romantic way to travel by the overnight ferry from Piraeus to Chania-Souda port (70km) or Heraklion Port (76km). Tickets can be bought in advance for all ferries via our partner website.

- By Car
If you want to explore the region while you're here, we recommend that you rent a car, other means of transport are limited and/or infrequent. We suggest our sister website Crete-Car-Rental.com, which offers competitive prices and you can collect your car at either airport.

- By Taxi
Book your taxi transfer online easily and safely from the airport or port to any location via our partner website.

Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through CreteTravel.com

Facilities

- Dining: Fantastic meals, combined with friendly and hospitable service, prepared by a top chef are served in the charming restaurant of Kapsaliana Village Hotel.

- Internet Access: Free WiFi throughout

- Swimming Pool: Large outdoor pool (6x16m) with spacious paved areas equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas overlooking the olive groves and the sea

- Extra Facilities on site: In the former premises of the monastery olive mill and the main production area, screenings are showing the traditions, historical background, and restoration process of the traditional settlement of Kapsaliana. In the other three areas, next to the main area of the olive mill, guests can enjoy watching videos on the delivery and production of olive oil.

- Spa Treatments: Special room for massage and yoga in the pool area

- Disabled Access: Not suitable

- Pets: Are allowed on request

- Languages Spoken: Greek, English, Dutch, German. French

- Parking: Free public parking is available on site