Hotel Splanzia (Chania)

Our charming little family eight room 'Boutique Hotel', has as much emphasis on hospitality and local traditions as on the comfortable, contemporary and decadent décor of this stylishly restored Venetian building. Service is intimate, relaxed and friendly, with emphasis on using fresh homemade and local produce in anything we serve – we believe the famous Cretan friendliness should not be forsaken to be 'chic'!

The entrance of the original Venetian doorway, with the iron emblem of the Turkish symbol over the head, hints at the history behind this extraordinary hotel, a stronghold during the Turkish occupation in the early 19th century.

The original features depict its history, such as the iron barred windows and wooden barrier behind the front door - of such thickness it would be impossible to remove without breaking the walls down; a fair deterrent against unwelcome visitors during more turbulent times on the island and a stark contrast to the warm welcome extended to guests today! Once inside, the picture changes to the warm, cosy parlour of the breakfast area, bar and reception. Stonewalls, arches and the original fireplace in the corner are a reminder of the former elegance of this Venetian mansion. The décor is very reminiscent of its historical past and the theme is 'Eastern Chic' - neo classical furnishings with lots of granite, iron, wood and bold fabrics made from luxurious silks, decadently embroidered drapes and Turkish carpets; a real Aladdin’s cave. The attention to detail is exquisite and in perfect keeping with roots of the original building and area.

Furnishings are opulent, contemporary and comfortable, and though the general ambience is of years gone by, the facilities most certainly belong to the future; all rooms are fitted with the latest technology with Satellite TV and a highly sophisticated telephone system with The style continues throughout the hotel and the eight individually styled rooms and suites have elegant furnishings throughout, many with romantic four-poster beds, a rich array of luxurious fabrics and up to the minute features and facilities.

In the summer, breakfast is served in the private little courtyard at the back of the hotel, as are drinks and snacks in the evening. The bougainvillea covered stone walls surround this and the old Turkish well, one of only three left in Chania, providing a haven of tranquillity from the city; the only sound coming from the bells of the nearby Agia Aikaterinou with its minaret towering above. There is also a little west facing roof-terrace where drinks may be taken, perfect for watching the sun go down over the minarets, spires and red tiled rooftops of intriguing and historical Chania!