Rimondi Boutique Hotels

With a wrought-iron, arched entrance way, marble staircases, two small but pretty pools, and a rooftop lounge, the Rimondi exudes quiet luxury. Divided among two complexes, the more luxurious Palazzo Collection has pricier suites. Guests are primarily on vacation and can be found lingering over the breakfast buffet, strolling the neighboring shops, and relaxing by the hotel's two pools -- one circular and the other a gorgeous rectangle lined with vine-covered walls and leafy trees.

The hotel is located on a pedestrian-only way, amid picturesque narrow streets lined with shops and restaurants. The nearby Municipal Park hosts the Wine and Cretan Food Festival, and the Venetian Harbor, with its fish tavernas, is about a five-minute walk away. It's a 15-minute walk to Rethymno Beach. There's no parking nearby, but the hotel will arrange for luggage transfer for arriving and departing guests.

The 12 rooms and suites at Rimondi Boutique Hotel are divided between two complexes: the Estate Collection and the Palazzo Collection. Rooms vary widely in offerings -- the Spa Suite, for example, has a private garden and outdoor whirlpool, while the Master Suite is two levels with a spacious living area. All room decor is dominated by white and other neutral colors, making for cool and calming surroundings. All rooms come complete with conveniences such as air-conditioning, mini-fridges, satellite TVs, and safes. Bathrooms have luxury bath products, hairdryers, bathrobes, and slippers.

Among the prettiest amenities are the palm tree-lined patio where breakfast is served, and the nearby Palazzo pool, a small but beautiful half-circle. There is also a white marble Hamam and Turkish bath, and massage service for guests. A rooftop terrace, with terra cotta-colored tiles and a few sun loungers, is nice for for relaxing, though the access stairs are very steep and narrow.Wi-Fi is free, but parking, which is off-site, is not.