The Palazzo Vecchio's small pool

The Palazzo Vecchio's small pool

The Palazzo Vecchio's small pool Prettily furnished studios Typical interior Palazzo Vecchio The charming courtyard

Palazzo Vecchio

CreteThe Rethymnon Area › Rethymnon

Situated in Rethymnon's historic centre, this intimate hotel was created from a 15th-century mansion, its comfortable accommodation arranged around a pretty courtyard.

The Venetian area of Rethymnon is possibly one of the most architecturally appealing spots on the island and in recent years a number of 'boutique' hotels have been fashioned from the original buildings.

We found the Palazzo Vecchio particularly appealing as the owners have managed to blend the best of the original 15th century architecture with some contemporary modern touches to create a comfortable little haven in the heart of the town.

The immaculately restored exterior of the building gives no hint of the large attractively cobbled courtyard within, which incorporates a small but stylish pool and umbrella-shaded seating areas. The twenty-five rooms, a selection of studios, apartments and maisonettes sleeping between two and four people in comfort, are arranged around the courtyard as are the public rooms, which include an elegantly furnished lobby and small bar.

Each of the rooms has an en-suite bath or shower room, is air-conditioned and has a satellite television, safety deposit box and direct dial telephone with internet access.

Just outside the hotel is the start of the historic centre of Rethymnon with its atmospheric buildings and wealth of artisan shops and traditional restaurants. The sandy beaches and facilities of modern-day Rethymnon can easily be reached on foot and for exploring further afield the bus station is just 200 metres away and the port just a little further.