3 Pines Design Hotel, Heraklion

Pros

• Each spacious unit includes a full kitchen, washing machine, and two balconies.
• The staff is hospitable, responsive, and enthusiastic.
• The rooftop pool is a peaceful place to swim, lounge, and relax.
• The focus on sustainability means that rooms include furniture made from natural and recycled materials, sensors to manage electricity, and plant-filled balconies.
• Guests with cars can park for free in the hotel lot a block away, a huge convenience in Heraklion, where parking is notoriously difficult.

Cons

• The location is in a more residential neighborhood that's about 20 minutes on foot to Lion's Square and Heraklion's old center.
• The swimming pool isn't large enough to accommodate many people at the same time.
• The hotel doesn't feature an on-site restaurant or bar.
• The hotel isn't specifically outfitted for travelers with limited mobility, though the building has an elevator.

Authenticity

Just outside the entrance of the 3 Pines Hotel stands one of the three pines that give it (and its neighborhood) the name. In 1922, following the population exchange between Greece and Turkey, a number of refugees landed in this area. The name 3 Pines refers not only to the hotel's environmental approach but also to its history. Don't let the modern design fool you: 3 Pines is all about a holistic integration of the past and present, of the natural and man-made. There's a thoughtful approach to the use of space and energy—literally and figuratively—in this historic location. This becomes clear when you speak to the staff, particularly owners Andreas and Alexi, who are eager to share their vision for this hotel as "a living breathing habitat with contemporary hospitality."

Location

Thanks to its black, green, and yellow facade, it's hard to miss the 3 Pines, especially as it's located in a residential neighborhood full of white buildings and former refugee homes. The hotel is in Heraklion's new city center, so guests can be in Lion Square and the old town in 20 minutes walking or 10 minutes by car. The Rocca a Mare Fortress is also 10 minutes by car or 30 minutes walking. The 3 Pines has its own parking lot, so those with cars can head to Knossos or Ammoudara Beach, both of which are 15 minutes away. 

Rooms & Bathrooms

The 12 units are more like hybrids of apartments and hotel rooms, so in the words of co-owner Andreas, this is "a hip, comfy retreat that feels like home." Each room has a kitchen, washing machine, and two balconies in the front and back, which makes this ideal for extended stays. In fact, you can book a room for months during the off-season. All units include sustainable elements such as furniture made from recycled materials, sensors that turn off electricity after you leave, and water heated from solar panels. There are two maisonettes available for larger families or groups. The 2-bedroom large penthouse suite sleeps up to six people with sofabeds and has two bathrooms, while the 3-bedroom supreme penthouse accommodates up to eight guests with sofabeds and has three bathrooms.  

Amenities

The hotel has a small outdoor swimming pool lined with blue and white tiles. The patio area beside the pool has lounge chairs and umbrellas. 3 Pines has a well-equipped gym with free weights, cardio machines, fitness classes, personal training, and yoga classes. It's located in the basement. The property also offers on-site bicycle rentals. The rooftop terrace is open to guests and is nicely furnished for relaxing with views over the city.

Family-Friendliness

3 Pines is popular with families, as the hotel's apartments are spacious and come with fully equipped kitchens, a perk for many parents. Children ages 14 and above are charged as adults. The pool is a hit with all ages, and babysitting services can be arranged for an extra fee. The best options for families are the 3 Bedroom Supreme Penthouse (which sleeps eight) or the suites that sleep between four and six people. Cots and extra beds are not available. 

Other Highlights

The hotel doesn't have an on-site restaurant or offer breakfast, but every unit has a full-sized kitchen and guests can request grocery delivery. There isn't a bar or poolside service, but guests can bring their drinks to the pool area.