Theasea Residences

Travellers looking for a laid-back self-catering holiday within easy walking distance of a decent range of local restaurants and shops as well as sandy beaches will find these modern studios much to their liking. Theasea is situated on the western fringes of the charming village of Panormos, just past the Grecotel Marine Palace, a large but attractively designed low-rise hotel catering primarily to families, with its own small water-park at the rear. The nearest beach is approximately 500 metres away, whilst the picturesque village centre can be reached on foot in 10 to 15 minutes and boasts an excellent choice of enticing tavernas, both on the seafront and in the stone-paved back alleys. The village centre also has a number of interesting gift and craft shops, whilst the nearest mini-markets for your holiday essentials are just 100 metres from the accommodation.

Theasea comprises 10 studios on two floors. Although fairly compact, they are well designed to make good use of the available space, equipped to a high standard, and kept meticulously clean. Each has a double bed, a stylish shower room with a walk-in shower, an open-plan kitchenette (with a fridge, two-ring ceramic hob, kettle and toaster), a dining table and chairs, and a furnished balcony or terrace. Amenities provided in all the studios include individually controlled air-conditioning (which can be used as heating in early or late season if required), free WiFi, safety deposit boxes, satellite TV, hairdryers and beach towels. The studios are divided into four categories, the first three of which are all similar in size (approximately 20 square metres), but classed according to whether their balconies or terraces have direct sea views, side sea views or no sea views (the sea is approximately 300 metres away as the crow flies; the land between the apartments and the sea is largely undeveloped). Direct sea views can also be enjoyed from the Family Studios, which are larger (approximately 30 square metres) and which in addition to the double bed have two single sofa/divan beds, so these can sleep families of up to four.

Those wishing to utilise their kitchenettes to prepare their own simple breakfast at leisure can book Theasea Residences on self-catering basis, but if you like the idea of breakfast in bed — or on your balcony — without any effort on your part, the studios can also be booked with breakfast included. Guests choosing the bed & breakfast option can take their pick from a list of sweet and savoury items, including fresh fruit, local pastries and eggs cooked to order, and have their breakfast delivered to their room the next morning at a time of their choosing.

Panormos makes a good base for exploring the central and western parts of the island. The bus stop for regular services to Rethymnon and Heraklion is a 15-minute walk away, whilst those who plan to hire a car will find ample parking next to the property. For those occasions when you simply wish to relax in the sun and don't feel like strolling down to the local beaches, Theasea also boasts its own swimming pool bordered by a small garden and terrace overlooking the neighbouring olive grove.