Splanzia Hotel, Chania, Crete - Explore & Book

"If location is all, then this hotel in the heart of Chania's historic Splanzia district scores high. Overshadowed by a Turkish minaret that was tacked onto the neighbouring church in 1630, the hotel is just 10 minutes' walk from the city’s fishing harbour, yet away from tourist bustle. Step inside and you’ll find the stone walls of an ancient Venetian stronghold jazzed up with a charcoal- and cherry-toned décor signed by the Bentley award-winning designer Yiannis Yiannakakis. With its sleek floors, black leather sofas and Madame Recamier loungers, the lobby is in striking contrast to the tangled alleys outside. A spiral staircase winds from here like a silver thread up to 8 rooms equipped with Balinese four-posters and luxurious drapes. Cross into the shady interior courtyard, with its mosaic tiles and deep stone well, and you’re plunged back to Ottoman times. Or head up to the sunset-facing terrace and collapse in the giant hammock with a drink and a view of the city's rooftops - magically romantic at night. Highs Relaxing with a book in the courtyard listening to Mass from the church next door - and doves cooing in the trees overhead Breakfast is exceptional, we loved the creamy Greek yoghurt drizzled with local honey and home-baked traditional Cretan pastries Exploring Chania's cobbled streets and covered market, all within walking distance of the hotel Brothers Yiannis and Nikos are incredibly welcoming and go out of their way to help Lows Noise from the street can filter through the shutters (especially in summer) - light sleepers should request courtyard-facing rooms It can be difficult to park; Yiannis promises - cross-his-heart-hope-to-die - that he’ll find you space near the hotel We felt the bedroom design is starting to look rather dated Bathrooms are a little cramped" - Heidi Fuller-Love