"Alastair Sawday's Special Places to Stay"
"The villa was built in the 1890s for a wealthy farmer of kitra (median apples), which were exported from Panormos' tiny harbour for use in liqueurs. Their delicate fragrance seems to linger in its charming rooms, brought back to life two decades years ago by Antonis and Korina, who holidayed here in their childhood. A carved stone gateway leads into a gardenia-scented, pine-shaded courtyard, where guests help themselves to a Greek breakfast spread, or sunbathe on wooden loungers beside a blissful small pool. Bedrooms are equally special, our favourites being Artemis, with a sweeping polished floor and elegant antiques, and Pandora, with chunky sloping rafters and a big private terrace. Rea is a delightful apartment off the courtyard, with an all-white bedroom and a stylish kitchenette. Odyssey is the largest room, and has its own little balcony; Nefeli is the smallest, up under the eaves, its bathroom down a winding stair. You're in an ex-fishing village with two sandy beaches and 15 tavernas - an easy bus ride to Rethymnon, whose picturesque Old Quarter teems with restaurants and bars."
"Great Small Hotels in Greece" by Jacoline Vinke
"It took Korinna and Andonis a good two years to renovate the century-old merchant’s house that they had found for sale and to transform it into Villa Kynthia. They managed to create an exquisite little getaway, with an atmosphere that is a cross between simple village hotel and exclusive retreat."
Reviews from tripadvisor visitors:
"Villa Kynthia is a unique and special, for several reasons. For a start it's run by a family and a freindly atmosphere that goes with it. Secondly it combine s two things that are hard to mix: An on street location in the middle of a cute village together with peace and tranquility within enclosed walls that contain a swimming pool and beautiful patio garden. Thirdly the rooms are really special. Each one has a particular architectural style that adds to the character of the place. Start your day with a great breakfast by the pool, spend the afternoon by the charming beach just 4 minutes away or visit nearby tourist sites (plenty within an hour's drive). Then return to lounge by the pool before eating in Georgia's restaurant around the corner. Warm, friendly, full of character, tranquil yet not isolated. Perfect. Just perfect."
Marcpc, Dublin Ireland, May 25, 2008
"Villa Kynthia is a renovated Villa, perfect to have relaxing holidays, a magical environment, that makes you feel like home! This was the third time we've chose Villa Kynthia for our vacations. Kynthia's rooms have a very unique character and each one is completely different. You will have a good perspective if you see some photos from the yard & the rooms. Is located in Panormo Village which is a perfect location if you love Crete Island. Warm people that they really love their village & they try to keep the original character of the village."
Stavri, Nicosia, Jul 24, 2009
"Villa Kynthia is in the centre of Panormos, a fairly quiet seaside village. It's small, only 6 rooms, and has been beautifully restored. We stayed in Odyssey suite, which was about 20' square, 4 poster bed, with separate en-suite set off of a tiny lobby. It has a balcony with small table & 2 chairs that overlooks the street which is reasonably quiet, but beware of the refuse truck that arrives when it's still dark! The best thing about the villa is the courtyard, an oasis of peace & quiet where most guests congregated at the end of the evening without intruding on their fellow guests. It is not a hotel - the reception is not manned, but a lovely greek lady serves the breakfast each morning between 8.30 & 10.00, & is there to serve ouzo, wine etc from 20.00-22.00 in the evening, but as long as you understand it's a guest house, this isn't really a problem."
jan59Essex, essex, Sep 28, 2009
Reviews from i-escape visitors:
"Hotel Kynthia is a real jewel. In Korina and Aramelia they have 2 very attentive saff and as it was our daughters 11th birthday whilst there, they made a real fuss and made the day an absolute joy.The weather could have been kinder and we would most definitely return in at another time. The breakfast,the room and the pool were excellent and Panormo is a delight with the only down side for a family with children is that the best beach is taken by a hotel complex! The courtyard, the bar and the breakfast room are a delight and this small intimate hotel is a lovely oasis in which to relax."
paul frank, United Kingdom (23.10.09)
"Loved the homely atmosphere - like staying in a family home, very relaxed. Although I thought it was expensive in relation to quality offered. Would have liked more bar-service/snacks in early evening. Local beach is easy to get to & good facilities."
Alison, United Kingdom (24.08.09)
"The service was absolutely wonderful. The owners are friendly and helpful, the staff really happy and smiley. We were lucky enough to be on our own the first few nights, and got lots of extra attention. "
Sarah, United Kingdom (10.07.09)
"The current review of Villa Kynthia is very accurate - it's a lovely little place; very central, yet very secluded. The owners were very helpful (finding me a local bar that would show the tennis!). The only disappointing thing was that their bar was not open the week we were there so there was no opportunity to sample their wine and have a drink 'in-house'."
Sarah, United Kingdom (02.07.09)
"Hotel including room and pool terrace where excellent, level of cleanliness was superb however we did experience some confusion with the hotel management on arrival and worth noting the inflexibility of departure times. Any minor issues weren't enough to detract from a wonderfully relaxing holiday in this lovely hotel."
Debbie, United Kingdom (01.06.09)
"A wonderful stay, and although I arrived later than expected due to a detour via Rome, the staff even late at night welcomed me and provided me with an extra night time snack and a glass of home made Cretan wine. Upon leaving early in the morning I received a wake-up call announcing the arrival of my taxi. Had I stayed longer than my ten nights, I would have gotten spoiled. I did not meet Antoni, but found Korina to be a generous hostess as well as a wonderful individual."
marja, United States (22.05.09)
"Liked the courtyard and garden, pool, location, relatively unspoilt village with excellent local restaurants."
Edward, United Kingdom (12.05.09)
"Enjoyed our stay at Villa Kynthia which is a relaxing oasis in the middle of the small resort. Breakfast is Greek-style, so it wasn't included on our postcards home, but the fresh orange juice is a great way to start the day. Artemis room is spacious, comfortable and peaceful, overlooking the pool."
David, United Kingdom (05.05.09)
"A tasteful, welcoming place to chill out for a few days. Ideally situated in a pretty coastal village with simple walks, a few shops and tavernas to explore."
patricia, United Kingdom (24.09.08)
"We really enjoyed our stay Villa Kynthia. Korinna was very hospitable. The size and tranquility was perfect for us since we traveled with 2 young children. The beach was terrific. Since most travelers stay for more than one night, there should be more variety in the breakfast. Other than that we sincerely enjoyed ourselves and would happily return. Although there are many restaurants in the village almost all menus were identical. I would recommend to travel to neighboring villages for more variety."
Catarina, Canada (04.07.08)
"It was a very relaxing place to stay and courtyard/pool very nice area to hang out during the heat of the day. The staff were great to our 18 month old daughter and she was very spoilt!"
Heidi, United Kingdom (21.06.08)
"We found Villa Kynthia to be everything we expected and more. Loved the garden and fresh flowers in reception and the soft classical music at breakfast time. Restaurants within the town (just outside Villa Kynthia door) are more popular than the ones situated around the harbour, but the food is excellent! I recommend reserving tables in peak season. The resort is so quaint and as you said on your website "unspoilt". It is extremely peaceful and relaxing, ideal for couples and families with "young" children. Not much to do for teenagers. We will certainly be returning!! "
Gaynor, United Kingdom (20.05.08)
"Villa Kynthia is a beautiful and peaceful place to stay. We stayed in the apartment Rea for 2 days. Interesting artwork on the walls and the upper area where the 2 single beds/settees are located made for a cozy reading nook. Unfortunately we did not meet the owners, but Antonis phoned minutes after we arrived to see if we needed anything such as suggestions on places to see or advice. The caretaker gave us some delicious baclava, coffee, and fresh squeezed orange upon arrival. We would have liked to have a drink in the cozy bar, but no one was around when we went down to see where the music was coming from. We did enjoy relaxing around the pool and the overall atmosphere of the courtyard with it's beautiful flowers. I would definitely recommend staying here. There is a wonderful restaurant at the end of the road and across the street we will always remember. There was no menu, but the owner kept bringing out dish after dish of delicious food his wife made. He promised we didn't have to pay if we didn't like it! A fabulous place."
patrick, United States (22.05.08)
"A beautiful villa, lovely hosts with good ideas for day trips, and, in Rethymno only 20 km. away, a *fabulous* restaurant called Avli. Truly exceptional food."
Sarah, United States (01.04.08)
"Overall, we loved the place, the village and the whole holiday!! The breakfast outside on the patio was great and we loved the décor of the whole villa. The village was authentic and really quiet with enough tavernas and restaurants to keep us busy. Next door town, Bali, is really not worth it if you do not like mass tourism. However, the owners should be there more often to deal with issues when they arise. For example, one night we were kept awake from 3am to 6am by a local tarverna owner listening to house music whilst drinking Raki but the owner refused to really do anything, probably to avoid village politics."
Christele, United Kingdom (11.09.07)
"Lovely setting for the hotel, and beautiful courtyard. However, the room we had was small with en-suite across the corridor. The main issue however was the very small size of the double bed, which meant sleeping for two people was very difficult."
Anastasia, United Kingdom (07.09.07)
"Delightful setting with lovely courtyard & pool although Rea suite slightly dated but useful with baby buggy etc. as on ground floor. Very intimate with few guests & central location in Panormo which is quiet & unspoilt. Staff most helpful & friendly. Would recommend if you want a relaxing home-from-home retreat. "
Claire, United Kingdom (03.06.07)
"We had a truly amazing time at Villa Kynthia. It is the most beautiful setting for a perfect holiday. Although I want to recommend the villa to everyone there's a part of me that would like to keep it a secret, because otherwise it will be constantly full and we will never be able to book ourselves in again."
Charlotte, United Kingdom (05.06.07)
"Has great charm, especially courtyard/pool area. Apartment Rea a bit damp in early May, bathroom probably needs an update but all spotlessly clean. Owners delightful - we had a lovely time overall."
tom, United Kingdom (05.05.07)
"A lovely place to stay and relax!"
Stephanie, United Kingdom (23.04.07)
"Small swimming pool, but wonderful courtyard. Panormo is a nice village with good restaurants"
Xavier, Spain (04.08.06)
"Our stay in Villa Kynthia was probably one of the most relaxing and enjoyable times that we have had in ages. Villa Kynthia oozes 'calm'...helped along by the pleasant classical music played at breakfast , the beautiful courtyard, pool, friendly staff and gorgeous rooms. Panormos itself is a delightful village, with enough tavernas to keep you well fed and watered...and only a short walk to the beach - what more could we ask for? Well...probably another week......."
Oisin, United Kingdom (13.07.06)
Reviews from cretetravel.com visitors:
"Villa Kynthia was lovely and the town gave us a delightful snapshot of "old Crete". We'll have to come back some day. Adonis was a wonderful help. He loaned us his phone on the night when we thought mom would die so that my sisters could reach me; he faxed some papers for Steven; and he offered his help in any way we wanted. We really appreciated his calm manner and thoughtfulness. And his candy jar! Please thank him again for us."
Carole Rathfon
"Worked really well. Hotel (Villa Kynthia) in Crete was superb and they were expecting us when we got there! Info given about taxis at the airport was correct and really helpful. I'd certainly consider useing the service again. With thanks,"
Andrew Waites
"Just a quick note to thank you both very much for all your help with our holiday. We had the best time, and loved Villa Kynthia. We will be back in the near future for sure! Thanks again."
Lisa Marsh
"The villa was built in the 1890s for a wealthy farmer of kitra (median apples), which were exported from Panormos' tiny harbour for use in liqueurs. Their delicate fragrance seems to linger in its charming rooms, brought back to life two decades years ago by Antonis and Korina, who holidayed here in their childhood. A carved stone gateway leads into a gardenia-scented, pine-shaded courtyard, where guests help themselves to a Greek breakfast spread, or sunbathe on wooden loungers beside a blissful small pool. Bedrooms are equally special, our favourites being Artemis, with a sweeping polished floor and elegant antiques, and Pandora, with chunky sloping rafters and a big private terrace. Rea is a delightful apartment off the courtyard, with an all-white bedroom and a stylish kitchenette. Odyssey is the largest room, and has its own little balcony; Nefeli is the smallest, up under the eaves, its bathroom down a winding stair. You're in an ex-fishing village with two sandy beaches and 15 tavernas - an easy bus ride to Rethymnon, whose picturesque Old Quarter teems with restaurants and bars."
"Great Small Hotels in Greece" by Jacoline Vinke
"It took Korinna and Andonis a good two years to renovate the century-old merchant’s house that they had found for sale and to transform it into Villa Kynthia. They managed to create an exquisite little getaway, with an atmosphere that is a cross between simple village hotel and exclusive retreat."
Reviews from tripadvisor visitors:
"Villa Kynthia is a unique and special, for several reasons. For a start it's run by a family and a freindly atmosphere that goes with it. Secondly it combine s two things that are hard to mix: An on street location in the middle of a cute village together with peace and tranquility within enclosed walls that contain a swimming pool and beautiful patio garden. Thirdly the rooms are really special. Each one has a particular architectural style that adds to the character of the place. Start your day with a great breakfast by the pool, spend the afternoon by the charming beach just 4 minutes away or visit nearby tourist sites (plenty within an hour's drive). Then return to lounge by the pool before eating in Georgia's restaurant around the corner. Warm, friendly, full of character, tranquil yet not isolated. Perfect. Just perfect."
Marcpc, Dublin Ireland, May 25, 2008
"Villa Kynthia is a renovated Villa, perfect to have relaxing holidays, a magical environment, that makes you feel like home! This was the third time we've chose Villa Kynthia for our vacations. Kynthia's rooms have a very unique character and each one is completely different. You will have a good perspective if you see some photos from the yard & the rooms. Is located in Panormo Village which is a perfect location if you love Crete Island. Warm people that they really love their village & they try to keep the original character of the village."
Stavri, Nicosia, Jul 24, 2009
"Villa Kynthia is in the centre of Panormos, a fairly quiet seaside village. It's small, only 6 rooms, and has been beautifully restored. We stayed in Odyssey suite, which was about 20' square, 4 poster bed, with separate en-suite set off of a tiny lobby. It has a balcony with small table & 2 chairs that overlooks the street which is reasonably quiet, but beware of the refuse truck that arrives when it's still dark! The best thing about the villa is the courtyard, an oasis of peace & quiet where most guests congregated at the end of the evening without intruding on their fellow guests. It is not a hotel - the reception is not manned, but a lovely greek lady serves the breakfast each morning between 8.30 & 10.00, & is there to serve ouzo, wine etc from 20.00-22.00 in the evening, but as long as you understand it's a guest house, this isn't really a problem."
jan59Essex, essex, Sep 28, 2009
Reviews from i-escape visitors:
"Hotel Kynthia is a real jewel. In Korina and Aramelia they have 2 very attentive saff and as it was our daughters 11th birthday whilst there, they made a real fuss and made the day an absolute joy.The weather could have been kinder and we would most definitely return in at another time. The breakfast,the room and the pool were excellent and Panormo is a delight with the only down side for a family with children is that the best beach is taken by a hotel complex! The courtyard, the bar and the breakfast room are a delight and this small intimate hotel is a lovely oasis in which to relax."
paul frank, United Kingdom (23.10.09)
"Loved the homely atmosphere - like staying in a family home, very relaxed. Although I thought it was expensive in relation to quality offered. Would have liked more bar-service/snacks in early evening. Local beach is easy to get to & good facilities."
Alison, United Kingdom (24.08.09)
"The service was absolutely wonderful. The owners are friendly and helpful, the staff really happy and smiley. We were lucky enough to be on our own the first few nights, and got lots of extra attention. "
Sarah, United Kingdom (10.07.09)
"The current review of Villa Kynthia is very accurate - it's a lovely little place; very central, yet very secluded. The owners were very helpful (finding me a local bar that would show the tennis!). The only disappointing thing was that their bar was not open the week we were there so there was no opportunity to sample their wine and have a drink 'in-house'."
Sarah, United Kingdom (02.07.09)
"Hotel including room and pool terrace where excellent, level of cleanliness was superb however we did experience some confusion with the hotel management on arrival and worth noting the inflexibility of departure times. Any minor issues weren't enough to detract from a wonderfully relaxing holiday in this lovely hotel."
Debbie, United Kingdom (01.06.09)
"A wonderful stay, and although I arrived later than expected due to a detour via Rome, the staff even late at night welcomed me and provided me with an extra night time snack and a glass of home made Cretan wine. Upon leaving early in the morning I received a wake-up call announcing the arrival of my taxi. Had I stayed longer than my ten nights, I would have gotten spoiled. I did not meet Antoni, but found Korina to be a generous hostess as well as a wonderful individual."
marja, United States (22.05.09)
"Liked the courtyard and garden, pool, location, relatively unspoilt village with excellent local restaurants."
Edward, United Kingdom (12.05.09)
"Enjoyed our stay at Villa Kynthia which is a relaxing oasis in the middle of the small resort. Breakfast is Greek-style, so it wasn't included on our postcards home, but the fresh orange juice is a great way to start the day. Artemis room is spacious, comfortable and peaceful, overlooking the pool."
David, United Kingdom (05.05.09)
"A tasteful, welcoming place to chill out for a few days. Ideally situated in a pretty coastal village with simple walks, a few shops and tavernas to explore."
patricia, United Kingdom (24.09.08)
"We really enjoyed our stay Villa Kynthia. Korinna was very hospitable. The size and tranquility was perfect for us since we traveled with 2 young children. The beach was terrific. Since most travelers stay for more than one night, there should be more variety in the breakfast. Other than that we sincerely enjoyed ourselves and would happily return. Although there are many restaurants in the village almost all menus were identical. I would recommend to travel to neighboring villages for more variety."
Catarina, Canada (04.07.08)
"It was a very relaxing place to stay and courtyard/pool very nice area to hang out during the heat of the day. The staff were great to our 18 month old daughter and she was very spoilt!"
Heidi, United Kingdom (21.06.08)
"We found Villa Kynthia to be everything we expected and more. Loved the garden and fresh flowers in reception and the soft classical music at breakfast time. Restaurants within the town (just outside Villa Kynthia door) are more popular than the ones situated around the harbour, but the food is excellent! I recommend reserving tables in peak season. The resort is so quaint and as you said on your website "unspoilt". It is extremely peaceful and relaxing, ideal for couples and families with "young" children. Not much to do for teenagers. We will certainly be returning!! "
Gaynor, United Kingdom (20.05.08)
"Villa Kynthia is a beautiful and peaceful place to stay. We stayed in the apartment Rea for 2 days. Interesting artwork on the walls and the upper area where the 2 single beds/settees are located made for a cozy reading nook. Unfortunately we did not meet the owners, but Antonis phoned minutes after we arrived to see if we needed anything such as suggestions on places to see or advice. The caretaker gave us some delicious baclava, coffee, and fresh squeezed orange upon arrival. We would have liked to have a drink in the cozy bar, but no one was around when we went down to see where the music was coming from. We did enjoy relaxing around the pool and the overall atmosphere of the courtyard with it's beautiful flowers. I would definitely recommend staying here. There is a wonderful restaurant at the end of the road and across the street we will always remember. There was no menu, but the owner kept bringing out dish after dish of delicious food his wife made. He promised we didn't have to pay if we didn't like it! A fabulous place."
patrick, United States (22.05.08)
"A beautiful villa, lovely hosts with good ideas for day trips, and, in Rethymno only 20 km. away, a *fabulous* restaurant called Avli. Truly exceptional food."
Sarah, United States (01.04.08)
"Overall, we loved the place, the village and the whole holiday!! The breakfast outside on the patio was great and we loved the décor of the whole villa. The village was authentic and really quiet with enough tavernas and restaurants to keep us busy. Next door town, Bali, is really not worth it if you do not like mass tourism. However, the owners should be there more often to deal with issues when they arise. For example, one night we were kept awake from 3am to 6am by a local tarverna owner listening to house music whilst drinking Raki but the owner refused to really do anything, probably to avoid village politics."
Christele, United Kingdom (11.09.07)
"Lovely setting for the hotel, and beautiful courtyard. However, the room we had was small with en-suite across the corridor. The main issue however was the very small size of the double bed, which meant sleeping for two people was very difficult."
Anastasia, United Kingdom (07.09.07)
"Delightful setting with lovely courtyard & pool although Rea suite slightly dated but useful with baby buggy etc. as on ground floor. Very intimate with few guests & central location in Panormo which is quiet & unspoilt. Staff most helpful & friendly. Would recommend if you want a relaxing home-from-home retreat. "
Claire, United Kingdom (03.06.07)
"We had a truly amazing time at Villa Kynthia. It is the most beautiful setting for a perfect holiday. Although I want to recommend the villa to everyone there's a part of me that would like to keep it a secret, because otherwise it will be constantly full and we will never be able to book ourselves in again."
Charlotte, United Kingdom (05.06.07)
"Has great charm, especially courtyard/pool area. Apartment Rea a bit damp in early May, bathroom probably needs an update but all spotlessly clean. Owners delightful - we had a lovely time overall."
tom, United Kingdom (05.05.07)
"A lovely place to stay and relax!"
Stephanie, United Kingdom (23.04.07)
"Small swimming pool, but wonderful courtyard. Panormo is a nice village with good restaurants"
Xavier, Spain (04.08.06)
"Our stay in Villa Kynthia was probably one of the most relaxing and enjoyable times that we have had in ages. Villa Kynthia oozes 'calm'...helped along by the pleasant classical music played at breakfast , the beautiful courtyard, pool, friendly staff and gorgeous rooms. Panormos itself is a delightful village, with enough tavernas to keep you well fed and watered...and only a short walk to the beach - what more could we ask for? Well...probably another week......."
Oisin, United Kingdom (13.07.06)
Reviews from cretetravel.com visitors:
"Villa Kynthia was lovely and the town gave us a delightful snapshot of "old Crete". We'll have to come back some day. Adonis was a wonderful help. He loaned us his phone on the night when we thought mom would die so that my sisters could reach me; he faxed some papers for Steven; and he offered his help in any way we wanted. We really appreciated his calm manner and thoughtfulness. And his candy jar! Please thank him again for us."
Carole Rathfon
"Worked really well. Hotel (Villa Kynthia) in Crete was superb and they were expecting us when we got there! Info given about taxis at the airport was correct and really helpful. I'd certainly consider useing the service again. With thanks,"
Andrew Waites
"Just a quick note to thank you both very much for all your help with our holiday. We had the best time, and loved Villa Kynthia. We will be back in the near future for sure! Thanks again."
Lisa Marsh