Casa Maistra Residence - Rethimnon

We would have stayed closer to our destination had the maps been clearer

A little slice of paradise; we did not know what to expect in Plakias as neither of us had been there nor did we have any first hand reviews; we had a lovely 2 room apartment for a slight increase in rate with a breathtaking view of the water and beach- moonlit nights, delicious breaksfast (European style not American); 5 min walk to town and the tavernas, 3 min walk down to beach (with almost no-one on it) and unspoilt. Away from comercialism, no large groups or tour buses and only 15 mins drive to Preveli beach. We can't wait to go back!!

Stone village is an unusual blend of elements, with spacious and comfortable rooms and quirky charm. The split-level apartments are quite well-suited to longer stays. We imagine kids would love this place. Service was friendly and casual, family-style.

At first I was a little freaked out when we were driving from the Chania airport to the hotel. It seemed so far. I got especially concerned as we drove up --what I later dubbed-Goat mountain.But when we got there-and up the stone stairs with all the beautiful flowers and trees and into our amazing room complete with fireplace and a great balcony overlooking the valley-I knew I had made the right decision. Yes the hotel is out of the way, yes it does take about 20 minutes to get up the mountain, yes you are about 40 minutes from Chania's town center but the time goes by fast (once you know where you are going) and the ride is half the fun, The owner of the hotel created this little piece of paradise with nothing but utter devotion. It seems that there is nothing he hasn't though of--our room even had a washing machine and soap for goodness sake!

When booking this hotel, I had some reservations, since there were a few bad reports in the past. My wife and I wanted to visit Crete and celebrate my 40th birthday in the romantic and gorgeous beaches and mountains. Well, Kalypso has been the greatest surprise of our last vacation. This was my 7th visit to Crete in the past 10 years, my favorite destination in the Mediterranean for vacationing, motorbike trips and both couples and family vacations. Kalypso is by far the best hotel I have stayed in on the island, especially for that price range! First, L O C A T I O N !!!! wow, a small paradise in the mountains, with that gorgeous fjord-like beach, simply heaven. Most of the hotel has been recently renovated; restaurant, lobby, terrace and pool furniture is brand new. Room furniture (bed, sofa, table & chairs) are brand new. The room was huge and nicely decorated, clean and very well maintained, and so was the bath room. Huge terrace with sea view was perfect for having a drink in the afternoon. Breakfast (we took BB) was gorgeous, with so many choices of yogurt, cereals fruits and vegetables, cheeses, meats and freshly made eggs and pastries. We will surely return to the Kalypso and its great hotel and nice staff. The proximity to Plakias was also a bonus, as it is one of the best small villages to visit in the southern area of Crete. A walking distance from the Kalypso are few of the best beaches in Crete. Getting a rental car would certainly widen the activity options in the area. Thank you Kalypso for a great vacation!