Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village

First opened in 1988 and spawned from the idea to replicate an authentic traditional Cretan village from scratch, this family-run hotel offers visitors an accessible insight into Crete’s traditional rural way of life. Everything from the stone walls of the village to the wood-beamed ceilings of cottages were sourced and recycled from old or abandoned rural buildings; the sculpted concrete doorways, some engraved with their own date of creation, bear an original and historic mark. The village’s charming, rustic grounds -- adorned with abundant fragrant flora and bright pastel shades -- are set into a hillside overlooking picturesque Heraklion and surrounding countryside. A series of stone steps and pathways lead gently downwards, under attractive stone archways and past traditional facilities, including a loom weave and blacksmith’s workshop. It has an authentic feel that’s even praised by local Cretans, and comes free of language and cultural barriers, fully immersing guests in Crete’s rural history and culture. 

In summer, the village takes on a more festive atmosphere, as traditional Cretan weddings, held at Arolithos’s very own church, are celebrated late into the night. While it may present a noise issue for some guests, most savor the opportunity to observe a Cretan family celebration firsthand. Rooms are admittedly basic, many with uneven stone floors and spartan wood furniture, but that adds to its charm. 

Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village is situated in the middle of Crete, well-positioned for day trips by car around the island. Although the entrance to the grounds is just off the main highway, the actual village is set farther in, via a paved road leading gradually to reception. This means there's little in the immediate area, and travelers will have to drive around 15 minutes to reach the beach. The city of Heraklion, home of the popular Knossos palace, is a 20-minute drive away, and Heraklion Airport is a similar distance. The resort town of Agia Pelagia, popular with tourists and locals alike for its decent restaurants and sandy beaches, is a 25-minute drive. Rethymnon’s charming old town and historic Venetian fortress are about a 75-minute drive. 

The 34 rooms of Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village are spread out in stone-and-concrete, two-story cottages around the village, and come as double, triple, or quad rooms. All are simple and rustic, with traditional Cretan art and textiles, antique pieces, and many with stone floors and concrete walls. Despite the spartan feel, they’re largely equipped with modern-day comforts, including air-conditioning, heating, and mini-fridges, though TVs are the old tube-style variety and internet is wired ethernet cables. Most rooms have charming furnished balconies or terraces, many with beautiful views overlooking mountains or Heraklion. All bathrooms have showers, and while some are contemporary, others are basic and look in need of an update. Some rooms are equipped with lovely working fireplaces.

A highlight here is the beautiful pool area, which has a gorgeous view of the surrounding landscape, a separate kids’ section, stone bridge, and fountain feature. Shaded loungers line the pool, and drinks and snacks can be obtained from the bar one level up, which has a peaceful and shaded outdoor terrace. A traditional taverna serves authentic Cretan meals, including a buffet breakfast, derived from locally sourced produce and all cooked in-house. The large restaurant provides live evening entertainment, and hosts weddings and family celebrations during high season. 

Educational workshops in traditional crafts and Cretan culture are available year-round, including activities such as cooking lessons, mosaic tiling, loom weaving, and blacksmithing. An accompanying farm and agricultural fields also provide educational and kid-friendly experiences, such as feeding the animals or helping with milk and local cheese production. A variety of shops selling local goods and handicrafts, as well as a museum showcasing Cretan rural life (fee), are also found in the village. Public areas have free Wi-Fi, although it's somewhat spotty at times. Private parking is free.