Avli Lounge Apartments

With its rich history dating back to the 16th century, Avli Lounge Apartments offers an authentic stay with Old-World character. Reception is reached via winding alleyways lined with flowering vines and stone facades accented with traditional ironwork. The majority of these stone pathways are pedestrian-only, and the only sounds you’ll hear are the bustle of shopkeepers and waiters from surrounding establishments, along with the casual murmur of locals and tourists. Avli itself is the former residential complex of a Venetian lord, an interconnecting series of stone buildings built during the island’s period of Venetian rule, and it's retained many of its original features. Presently, the 1987-opened property has an extensive wine collection, lovely archways, and striking chandeliers. As there are just 10 suites, the atmosphere is intimate and quiet. A courtyard with a classic water fountain, lush vegetation, and flowering vines adds to the tranquility. It's also a popular space for dining, and the namesake of the hotel (Avli translates to "private courtyard" in Greek). Although some families stay here, the vibe is better suited to romancing couples.

Avli Lounge Apartments occupies several buildings, making the location of its reception somewhat confusing -- a quick enquiry with one of the locals will direct visitors to the right place. It’s on a narrow stone alleyway lined with overhanging flowering vines, and surrounded by local restaurants and shops. The majority of Rethymnon’s charming old town is within a quick five-minute walk of the hotel, including myriad cafes, dining options, and vibrant nightlife. The historic Venetian harbor, Fortezza castle, and the city’s long, three-mile beach are also just a five-minute stroll away. The lively city of Chania is roughly an hour drive west, and Heraklion and its airport are about a 75-minute drive east.

The spacious suites are divided across two different buildings: the original Venetian residence, where suites are named and decorated after colors found in Crete, and a more recently acquired building, where suites have a more whimsical feel and are themed after sweet treats. There are Venetian-period features throughout, including original fireplaces and stone walls. Expect homey features such as exposed wood ceilings, painted wooden furniture, chandeliers, and bronze wall hangings in some. Most have marble bathrooms housing freestanding hot tubs with showerheads, plus some have romantic four-poster beds. However, only some have furnished outdoor spaces. All come with free non-alcoholic minibars, welcome trays with local goods, flat-screen TVs, and small lounge areas, as well as desks, tea- and coffee-making facilities, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Toiletries, hairdryers, bathrobes, and slippers are also provided, but some bathrooms are a bit compact.

A standout feature here is the excellent cuisine, which combines traditional dishes with innovative cooking techniques. Fresh, local produce is always used, contributing to beautifully rich and aromatic flavors, and dishes can be served in the flowering courtyard for a romantic setting. An extensive wine bar offers several wine varietals, and an expert sommelier is on-hand. Free a la carte breakfasts -- served until noon -- are a guest favorite, as are the hotel's homemade strawberry marmalade and Greek yogurt. A second, more casual restaurant serves traditional Greek meze plates. Authentic, locally produced goods and artisan gifts are sold at the on-site Raw Materials shop. There isn’t a swimming pool, but a well-sized rooftop terrace houses a lovely mosaic-tile hot tub. Some lounge furniture and lovely views over Rethymnon make this is an alluring spot. Lack of private parking is no surprise given the old town’s historic infrastructure, but there’s a public parking lot a short walk away with reasonable rates. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, and in-room massages can be arranged.