10 unusual places to stay in Crete!

Hey, brave explorers, welcome to a hidden part of the Mediterranean where travel dreams take on a higher dimension… As you may have guessed, we’re talking about the magnificent island of Crete, the jewel of Greece. And what’s more, for a special occasion: today we present the 10 most beautiful and unusual accommodations in Crete.

Discover our other unique accommodation options in Crete :

1. Sofia’s Place, Heraklion: a house surrounded by olive trees!

Sofia’s Place is located in the middle of an olive grove in Heraklion! Discover an incredibly comfortable wooden house in the land of stone houses. It features a garden, barbecue, private pool, two bedrooms, bathroom, outdoor lounge, deckchairs, sports equipment and air conditioning. The magnificent Sofia’s Place, just 11 minutes from the center of Heraklion, is ideal for a nature retreat close to the capital. This is an excellent villa rental in Crete for a family who loves nature, a change of scenery and even isolation.

2. Fani’s Holiday Home: your rooftop in Heraklion with Jacuzzi!

Ideal for couples, but also for groups of friends and families with children: welcome to Fani’s Holiday Home with hot tub! Translate “Fani’s Holiday Home with hot tub! Make the most of this 110m² apartment in the center of Heraklion, with garden, terrace, outdoor lounge, barbecue and 3 bedrooms! Splendid…

3. Glamping: your deluxe lodge near Matala

Rendezvous in southern Crete, not far from the hippie village of Matala or Phaistos, and settle in for a few days in one of the many this magnificent deluxe lodge tent sleeps 5 ! Just 60km from Heraklion international airport, discover a complete interior (kitchen, living room, bed, shower, wc…), as well as a beautiful exterior, complete with dining table, large outdoor lounge and even a shower!

4. Natura Cottage: a charming cottage in the heart of nature

It’s a bit of a drive from Heraklion airport, just under 2 hours to be exact, but when you arrive… Discover a haven of peace away from it all. Everything except Nature, which is omnipresent in this cottage. Enjoy sea views, plants and trees, a barbecue, a garden and several bungalows to match your stay (for families or couples, for example).

5. Your luxury penthouse with Jacuzzi in the heart of Heraklion!

Discover the Heraklion Harbour Penthouse, a corner of paradise in Crete! This sea-view apartment is 1.1 km from Heraklion’s Venetian walls. Enjoy the private Jacuzzi, sun terrace, fully equipped kitchen and proximity to historic sites such as Koules. The airport is 2 km away, and parking and Wi-Fi are free. The Heraklion Harbour Penthouse, the perfect starting point for an unforgettable getaway in Crete.

6. Bungalow in the middle of nature and outdoor bath!

Imagine you’re in love, and you need a moment together somewhere in the world. What if we told you that this place was in Crete, in the south near Plakias. After driving just under 2 hours from Heraklion airport, you arrive in a temple of simplicity, light and nature. Welcome to Bungalows Panstel in Kerames Rethymno! And of course, the outdoor bathtub… Unusual and romantic as can be!

7. Sleep on an orange plantation in southern Crete!

If you’ve ever had the chance to spend a few days or more in Crete, then you know just how populated the Greek island is with plantations of all kinds. And although olive trees cover 3/4 of Cretan trees, there are still vineyards and orange groves here and there. And it’s in this setting that we’re offering you the chance to stay: an unusual accommodation in Crete, surrounded by (organic) orange trees, to get away from it all and get back to Mother Nature. Welcome to KaliVie Bio Farm & Retreat!

8. A traditional Cretan stone house in the heart of the island

The Kamihis Farm House Experience in Zarós: mountains on the horizon, garden on your doorstep. Terraces and balconies with lake views. Hiking galore. 42 km from the Venetian walls, 43 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Heraklion Níkos-Kazantzákis international airport 45 km away, with shuttle service on request. Couples love it: score of 9.6 for getaways for two.

9. Glamping with a sea view: the best of both worlds!

Discover the Glamsea Unique Glamping Experience: 1 km from Palaiokastro beach, breathtaking views, free Wi-Fi, private parking. Comfortable accommodations, exceptional private terrace to feel alone in the world, TV, modern bathroom, practical facilities. Peaceful garden. Fraskia beach 1.6 km, Venetian walls 15 km, Heraklion airport 18 km. An exceptional experience awaits you!

10. Unusual accommodation near Preveli Beach

Looking for a trip that’s all about well-being, a change of scenery, nature, rest and sunshine? Terra Preveli, not far from the exceptional Preveli Beach (2km away), is the perfect unusual (and luxurious) accommodation for those in search of a truly enchanted break in Crete. Perfect for couples.

Why book unusual places to stay in Crete?

A question you may also be asking yourself. It’s true that Crete has many luxury hotels and other vacation clubs offering designer rooms and incredible activities. But it doesn’t have to be a complete change of scenery. This is what you’ll find in an unusual accommodation in Crete: a special, unexpected, suspended stay. A home where you love each other, where you have fun and where you’d sometimes like to spend your life!

Where can you find boutique hotels in Crete?

As you can see above, unusual accommodations (from our partner Booking) can be found all over the island: near the two big cities of Chania and Heraklion, but also inland and in southern Crete.

What types of boutique hotels are available in Crete?

Crete offers a wide variety of unusual accommodations, including converted caves, troglodyte houses, wooden cabins, yurts, water-based accommodation (boats, floating cabins), yurts and much more. The choice will depend on your preferences and the experience you’re looking for.

Is Crete’s unusual places to stay suitable for all budgets?

Yes, you can find unusual accommodation in Crete to suit different budgets. Some options can be more luxurious and expensive, while others are more affordable. There are unusual accommodations to suit a variety of financial needs.

How to book unusual accommodation in Crete?

You can do your own search for unusual accommodation or trust the drastic selection made by Crete Autrement above!

What are the typical activities in the vicinity of Crete’s self-catering accommodations?

Nearby activities will depend on the location of your unusual accommodation. However, Crete generally offers opportunities for hiking, swimming, sampling local cuisine, visiting historical sites, cultural discoveries and much more. Each region has its own unique attractions.

Is Crete’s unusual accommodation suitable for families?

Yes, many of Crete’s unusual accommodations are family-friendly, but it’s important to check with each accommodation to find out their policy on families and children, as well as to make sure the space is suitable for your family’s needs…