Lefka Apartments

Walking through the picturesque entrance of an iron archway flanked with blossoming pink and purple flowers, guests are immediately greeted by the lovely gardens. Lefka Apartments have rose bushes, manicured hedges and a stepping-stone path that creates a little oasis. The hotel is small and has no reception area, but there's a courtyard area with a pool and adjacent snack bar where families, solo travelers, and couples mingle. The hotel is family-run by just a handful of staff who go above and beyond to provide exceptional service, whether crafting a cocktail or helping plan daily excursions.

Lefka Apartments is nestled in the northwest area of Crete, the largest of the Greek islands. It's a short 10-minute drive to the town of Chania or a 15-minute bus ride; there's a bus stop right outside the hotel. Aptera Beach is a five-minute walk from the hotel and there are other beaches in the nearby area.

The closest airport is in Chania, which is a 25-minute drive away. For guests wanting to travel to Heraklion, Crete's capital and largest city, it's a two-hour drive.

Note that the hotel is off a busy main road, so guests in rooms closer to the street can experience some noise, but it provides easy access to surrounding cities and attractions. A supermarket is also across the street for guests who want to cook in their rooms.

Lefka Apartments is made up of eight studios and eight one-bedroom apartments; all are clean, albeit basic in furniture and decor. All contain wooden furniture, single beds that can be pushed together to form a double, and at least one sofa. The kitchenettes are fully stocked with mini-fridges, microwaves, hot plates, electric kettles, and coffeemakers. One-bedroom apartments have separate bedrooms and living room areas, complete with sofas and dining room tables; although cribs are available, spacing can be tight. Most bathrooms have undergone renovations and now feature glass walk-in showers with rain showerheads.

Every room has a balcony, either overlooking the lovely pool area or blossoming gardens. Flat-screen TVs, air conditioners, and free wired internet or Wi-Fi are standard. While decor is minimal, thoughtful touches like a welcome bottle of wine and olive oil are left for guests.

Although Lefka Apartments lacks a reception, gym, spa, and full restaurant, most guests don't mind thanks to the gorgeous pool area. The middle courtyard area has a decent-sized pool with a diving board surrounded by lounge chairs and umbrella shades that both adults and children make use of. Palm trees, potted flowers, and other greenery provide a relaxing oasis from the outside busy street. There's also a separate garden area with rows of rose bushes and young trees; this sits next to the private parking lot which is free for guests.

The Pool Bar is a highlight of the hotel, serving delicious food and a variety of drinks all day on white wooden tables with lanterns and small potted plants; guests are often conversing with fellow travelers and the staff in this setting. A laptop and shelf of dozens of books are available by the pool for guests to use.