The Captain's House

Standing on the small headland between the village's two main sandy coves and overlooking the jetty where the local fishermen moor their boats, the Captain's House arguably boasts the most desirable location in Panormos. It is therefore no wonder that the large, adjacent taverna belonging to the same family has long been one of the most popular places to dine in the village, with locals and holidaymakers alike attracted not only by the extensive menu, which alongside freshly caught fish and seafood features a range of Greek and international dishes, but also by the setting and the stunning sunset views across the sea.

The house itself was built in the 1920s for an affluent local captain, and was carefully restored a few years ago to provide comfortable holiday accommodation full of character. As this handsome building is rightly protected as a site of architectural interest, the layout of the half-dozen apartments is a little idiosyncratic. The Superior Apartments and Maisonettes are arranged around an inner courtyard which has a large arched opening, through which you can glimpse the sea. Both these types are arranged on three levels, with a cosy living area on the middle level, half a flight of stairs leading down to the kitchen and half a flight of stairs leading up to a galleried sleeping area. The Superior Apartments have balconies onto the courtyard and one sofa-bed in the living area; the Maisonettes have slightly larger living areas with two sofa-beds and access to a communal terrace area. Both types also have modern shower rooms, and the kitchens are equipped with a mini-oven/hob, a fridge, a kettle and a coffee-maker. Air-conditioning, TVs, safety-deposit boxes, hairdryers and free WiFi are provided in all the accommodation.

Situated on the raised ground floor next to the entrance is the Family Suite for up to 5 people (maximum 4 adults), with two single beds in the living-dining room and a double bed plus a single bed in the separate bedroom. The kitchenette is open-plan and there is a bathroom with a bath tub and washing machine. The balcony has a side sea view as well as shutters that can be adjusted to provide privacy from the nearby taverna tables.

The crowning glory is the Grand Suite on the upper floor for up to 6 people, with a large living-dining room, a well-equipped kitchen, three separate bedrooms with sea views and two bathrooms. This also benefits from two balconies and a private terrace with wonderful sunset views.

The accommodation at the Captain's House is offered on self-catering basis, and there are bakeries and mini-markets within easy walking distance for those wishing to make use of their kitchenettes to prepare their own breakfast. For those who prefer not to cater for themselves, a selection of breakfast options is offered at the Captain's House taverna from 9 am onwards. In the evenings, it is tempting to simply flop in the property's own taverna for dinner in order to savour the lovely sea views, but Panormos has such a good selection of eateries that it would be a shame not to try out some of the others from time to time.

Panormos is an ideal location for those who do not wish to drive on holiday, with regular bus links to both Rethymnon and Heraklion. Those who plan to explore the surrounding region in depth and at their own pace can make use of our reduced car hire rates by picking up their hire car on arrival at the airport; free parking can be found by the quayside just below the Captain's House.