Inland Crete is surprisingly different from the impression you might receive of the island if you stay on or near the coastal areas with their - admittedly - lovely sandy beaches, and rich archaeological treasures and historic sights (the Minoan Palace of Knossos, Heraklion Archaeological Museum and medieval Réthymno are just three highlights not to be missed). But our pick of the best off-the-beaten-track hotels on Crete will allow you to explore the island as it has existed for centuries, away from the tourist glare and the seaside crowds.

Inland you will find olive and lemon groves, rounded hills and hill-top villages with frescoed chapels and friendly tavernas - the latter often make their own produce such as olive oil, cheese and wine. To the west are the snow-capped White Mountains; craggy limestone peaks with karst plateaus and deep canyons running to the coast. Here is a botanist's and birdwatcher's paradise: hoopoes, eagles, vultures plus wild thyme, lavender and rare orchids.

Choose one of the best off-the-beaten-track hotels on Crete to experience the peaceful side of island life.

Best off-the-beaten-track hotels on Crete

For a traditional stay

White River Cottages

It would be hard to get more into a simple Cretan life than at Aspros Potamos, a collection of 10 stone cottages tucked in a small canyon near the south-east coast. Expect whitewashed stone interiors, open rafters, paraffin lamps and simple wooden furniture. Utterly peaceful.
If you wish to self-cater (albeit it in modest kitchens), take a look at White River Cottages, a huddle of whitewashed shepherds' cottages with stone-flagged floors and timbered ceilings surrounded by olive and citrus trees. They’re peaceful and comfortable plus there’s a pretty pool.

For a pampering stay

If you'd prefer a few luxuries with your remote location, Elia Hotel & Spa is worth checking. Restored farm cottages are set within peaceful gardens and olive and lemon trees. Views to the sea are stunning plus there's a pool, sauna and hammam.
Equally comfortable, Kapsaliana Village Hotel is a former farmhouse converted into 10 rooms that mix contemporary and rustic furnishings. Organic food is served in the restaurant plus there's a sun-trap pool.

For the beach

Hotel Porto Loutro may be on the beach, but it's also off most tourist radars. Located in a car free village on Crete's little know South West coast, it's perfect for a simple seaside getaway.
Villa Kynthia may not be stuck in the middle of nowhere, but it's off the beaten track in the sense that it's located in a pretty village, not usually frequented by mass tourism (the crowds head for the larger resorts along the coast road). Rooms are full of 19th century period touches and there's a lovely pool. Plus the beach is just a short stroll away.

For families

Eleonas Traditional Houses are ideal for all the family. In a stunning rural location, there's loads of activities both on site and further afield from archery, to hiking to cookery classes. Plus there's a lovely pool and stunning views.
Vamos Traditional Village offers charming self catering accommodation situated in a sleepy village, yet you're just ten minutes drive from the beach. And it's great value too. Perfect for a family holiday.
Mourtanakis Residence is another property with villa style accommodation located in a quiet village. It's ideal for families looking to enjoy both the great outdoors and the beach (it's close to four different beaches). The accommodation is simple and modern plus there's an on site pool and terraces for lounging!

If you want to get under the skin of the island, and discover its true beauty, choose one of the best off-the-beaten-track hotels on Crete. Nothing here that fits the bill? Expand your search and check out all our Crete recommendations.

Best off-the-beaten-track hotels on Crete

Aspros Potamos

Crete (Crete)

A home-away-from-home set in a stunning rural spot with beaches, bars and tavernas a walk away. A small collection of traditional stone cottages make the perfect base for families. Self-catering and BBQ are available for all. Return to simpler times at this beautiful hideaway on Crete.

Back to Nature - This stunning area of natural beauty combines beaches and mountains covered by lush greenery, pine, olive and citrus trees
Eco break - The buildings have been restored in a traditional fashion, using all natural materials and only renewable energy sources
Great walks - Explore the ancient settlement of Aspros Potamos on foot, the terrain is ideal for hikers and mountaineers
Self catering - Self-catering apartments (of varying sizes) include firelit lounges, kitchens, and terraces

from AU$121 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

White River Cottages

Crete

A charming hamlet of 13 former shepherds cottages surrounded by olive groves and citrus trees. The self catering studios are rustic and quaint and with stunning views of the local area and sea. This authentic and secluded spot is a 15-minute walk from the beaches and local town.

Romantic Break - The charmingly rustic self contained studios and apartments are ideal for couples looking for a bit of privacy and romance.
Hideaway - Off the tourist track, this peaceful retreat is set in stunning natural landscape and only a 15 min walk to the beach.
Great walks - Explore this amazing landscape on foot, full of olive groves, citrus trees and lovely landscapes.
Sights nearby - Walk down through the olive groves to Makriyialos, the prettiest town on this stretch of coast.

from AU$139 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Hotel Porto Loutro

Crete

A great getaway to an idyllic blue bay in a car-free village, right on the beach. Off the beaten track, this tranquil hotel is ideal for a simple seaside holiday for families. Boasting unspoilt bay views, life plays out on a different tempo here. Utterly relaxing.

Total relaxation - Utterly charming accommodation with sea views and a no mobile policy in shared spaces creating a tranquil environment
Full of character - With quarried slate or marble floors, beamed ceilings, and private balconies each room has bags of character
Groups - With great value rooms this small hotel is a good option for groups of friends looking for a quiet hideaway
Great walks - The island has no roads and no cars making it an ideal location for a walking holiday

from AU$113 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Elia Hotel & Spa

Crete

This small rustic spa retreat offers peace and quiet in the Cretan hills. With a pool and a good traditional restaurant, it's the kind of cosy cocoon that some guests won't want to leave, but for those who do the bright lights of Chania are a short drive away.

Country Escape - Set amid olive groves and reputely located next to the oldest olive tree in the world, this is a charming rural hideaway
Families - Very family friendly - the kids will love the pool while the larger maisonettes make excellent family rooms
Great walks - Easy-going walks on the doorstep and challenging treks nearby make this a good option for a hiking holiday
Total relaxation - With its peaceful hillside location and spoiling spa, this is a good option to come and simply unwind

from AU$191 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Villa Kynthia

Crete

A characterful guesthouse set in a pretty and relatively undiscovered village right on the coast. Rooms are bursting with history with plenty of antiques, exposed beams, and beautiful polished wooden floors. Traditional breakfasts are served and there are two sandy beaches within walking distance.

Full of character - The building dates back to the 1890s and is utterly charming with bags of original character and packed with antiques
Hideaway - Panormos is a small and pretty-much undiscovered village on the north coast of Crete
Groups - The property has just five bedrooms making it an ideal option for a group trip
Beach Life - There are two sandy (and relatively secluded) beaches within walking distance

from AU$324 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Vamos Traditional Village

Crete

A shining example of how to do low-impact tourism. Vamos is a collection of locally owned self-catering accommodation in and around a sleepy village. Interiors are comfortable and rustic and many feature private pools. Stunning views of the White Mountains are thrown in too. Ideal for families.

Value chic - Offering bags of character, swimming pools, and plenty of activities - you are getting a lot for your money here
Families - Private self-catering villa accommodation is perfect for families looking for an independent stay
Self catering - Stone cottages have kitchens, fireplaces and TVs and are decorated in a traditional style
Swimming Pool - For a little extra luxury, book one of the villas with a large private pool

from AU$129 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Eleonas Traditional Houses

Crete (Zaros 700 02)

A charming farmhouse offering stone cottages with classic furniture set amidst beautiful scenery. An on-site restaurant and cafe serves local cuisine (much of the produce is grown onsite). Cooking classes, archery lessons and wine tours available are all available. A charming rural escape.

Active Holiday - There is plenty to do in the surrounding area including hiking along trails that pass through historical sites
Country Escape - A working farm where olive oil is produced, vegetables are grown, and there are goats and chickens
Families - A lovely retreat for families, with lots of space, a large pool, and farm animals onsite
Less £ - With great amenities and chic design this is a very good value stay

from AU$223 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Mourtzanakis Residence

Crete (Achlada )

A small eco-hotel perched on a hill in the peaceful village of Achlada. Villas and cottages are designed using natural materials and feel fresh and contemporary. Each has a living space and a kitchenette. There's a wholesome Greek restaurant and eco-activities are organised. An escape to nature.

Value chic - The ethos here is 'less is more' with a focus on the nature around so while the villas are very comfy, they are well-priced too
Foodies - Food is a big part of the experience. The restaurant is organic and there are cooking classes and olive oil tastings too
Back to Nature - Set in a village surrounded by beautiful scenery and close by to four different beaches. An ideal place to enjoy nature
Families - A laidback attitude, a dedicated kids' pool, and apartments to fit families make this an easy choice

from AU$165 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Kapsaliana Village Hotel

Crete (Kapsaliana)

A renovated 18th-century olive press and surrounding buildings with simple Cretan architecture; stone walls, arches and wooden beams with minimalist-chic interiors. Rooms feature comfy beds, sofas and private terraces with views. Contemporary Greek cuisine is served and there's a large outdoor pool.

Eco break - Food is locally sourced and organic, everything that can be is recycled and the restoration relied on natural, local materials
Families - With plenty of space, an outdoor pool, and kids under 14 staying for free in parents' rooms - ideal family holiday material
Total relaxation - The kind of tranquil hotel that is ideal for a summer getaway where all you need is a swimsuit and a good book
Back to Nature - Surrounded by large olive groves with sweeping views of the outstandingly beautiful countryside

from AU$356 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Best off-the-beaten-track hotels on Crete

Best off-the-beaten-track hotels on Crete

For a traditional stay

For a pampering stay

For the beach

For families

Best off-the-beaten-track hotels on Crete

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