Manili Boutique Suites & Villas, Heraklion

Pros

• The modern style of the suites offers something different in Archanes, where many hotels follow the traditional mountain village look, so guests can enjoy a mix of contemporary living in a historic location.
• Those traveling in the off-season can stay in this year-round hotel and see a different side of Archanes in the spring and winter.
• All of the suites have kitchenettes.
• Guests can have a refreshing drink at the beautiful and spacious bistro across the street.

Cons

• There's no elevator in this historic building; those with limited mobility are advised to book a ground-floor room.
• Standard double feels tight and dark, so book a larger suite for more space and light.
• Rooms have exposed clothing racks for storage, a downside for some.

Authenticity

Petros, owner of the Manili Boutique Suites and Villas, grew up coming to Archanes, where his family is from. In fact, his grandfather lives up the street, and the pool area is part of a building that the family inherited from a woman in the neighborhood (which is called Manili). Original elements like stone walls remain, so even if the suites' present style is more modern, there's still a sense of history here.

Location

The hotel is on a side street of Archanes, just a few minutes on foot from the Square of Eleftherios Venizelos. Knossos is 15 minutes away by car, Heraklion is 30 minutes away, and the airport is 25 minutes away. Hiking enthusiasts will find no shortage of trails here, wine lovers can enjoy tours and tastings of Archanes' most famous export, and history buffs can drive to the sites of Fourni and the Minoan sanctuary of Mount Juktas in just 10 minutes (or walk there in an hour). 

Rooms & Bathrooms

The nine suites are decorated in a warm, minimalist style that mixes stone, whitewashed walls, and custom wood furniture. Most of them are situated around the hotel's small pool. The superior double is the smallest option, but it feels cramped, so go for a higher tier for more space. Connecting rooms are available for groups or families with older kids. Upper-floor rooms have terraces and can only be reached by stairs, as there's no elevator.
Three villas are available and follow a traditional mountain style. They're filled with vintage wooden furniture, woven textiles, and full kitchens. The villas are located just across the street from the suites and have a small pool to share. Each one can sleep up to seven people, and guests can get service from the hotel, like room service, or enjoy breakfast at the restaurant a few doors down.

Amenities

The hotel has two outdoor pools. One is a medium-sized pool available for all guests, while the second is a plunge-sized pool only for those staying at the villas. Manili Boutique Suites & Villas doesn't have a spa or wellness center, but each villa has a fitness room with basic gym equipment. The villas also have a shared courtyard with a billiards table and a large barbecue area next to the villa pool. This property isn't ideal for travelers with limited mobility. 

Family-Friendliness

Younger children are not allowed at the hotel—only those ages 12 and up are welcome. Suites and interconnected rooms could work for families with older children, but the rooms don't allow extra beds or cots. 

Other Highlights

A continental breakfast is served buffet-style. The hotel has its own bistro bar, Manili Bistro, which is open daily from 10 am to midnight. It's in a separate building across the street and serves brunch, lunch, dinner, snacks, coffee, and cocktails throughout the day. There's a full bar available.