Country Hotel Velani

Velani is a family-run business, not far from Kasteli airport, belonging to Sabine and Manolis, who together with their daughters Maria and Helena strive to provide guests a warm family atmosphere. It is situated at an altitude of 365 meters, overlooking the Lagada valley and the artificial lake of the Aposelemi River, with a panoramic view of the north side of the Mt. Dikti range and is surrounded by perennial oak trees. A retreat just 35 minutes from Heraklion and positioned at the center of Crete, it makes for easy exploration of much of the island.
Activities such as horse riding, paragliding, trekking, and cooking classes, give you ample reason for your stay at the guesthouse but the most important reason that so many guests return, is the Cretan cuisine, which enjoys a dominant place on the offerings of our restaurant, with most of the products created on-site.

Tour and Tasting

Our estate offers an extraordinary journey through various gardens and landscapes, promising an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.

Highlights of the Estate:

1. Gardens:

Guided Tours: Stroll through our meticulously curated gardens, including the vegetable, fruit, herb, and flower gardens.

Herb Haven: Delight in the aromatic scents of thyme, oregano, and basil, and savor unique herbal teas like Origanum, Dictamnus and Dittany.

Farm-to-Table: Witness the organic cultivation of fruits and vegetables, integral to the culinary delights at our Velani restaurant.

2. Landscape:

Mediterranean Diversity: Explore a variety of Mediterranean trees and garden plants, complemented by wildflowers, herbs, and mushrooms.

Kermes Oak Forest: On the estate’s south and east sides, discover a forest teeming with small birds and animals.

Rugged Beauty: The west side is a haven for wildflowers and Cretan bushes, showcasing orchids in winter and a vibrant array of flowers in spring.

3. Olive Grove:

Olive Oil Excellence: Our northern olive grove produces rich, flavorful olive oil, a staple in our restaurant’s cuisine.

Cretan Trees: Enjoy the shade of cypress and carob trees, whose pods are a key ingredient in traditional Cretan dishes.

4. Flower Garden:

Poolside Paradise: Near the pool and guest rooms, luxuriate in the vibrant blooms of Oleander, roses, strelitzia, clematis, morning glory, and agave.

Cultivated Beauty: Admire the stunning flower trees such as tulip tree, Jacaranda, Albizia, and Melia, creating a picturesque setting perfect for relaxation.

Our estate offers a unique blend of natural beauty and diverse plant life, inviting guests to savor some of Crete’s ‘forgotten’ delights. Whether you’re wandering through aromatic herb gardens, exploring the rugged landscapes, or simply relaxing by the pool, our hotel promises a memorable experience, deeply rooted in the rich flora and fauna of Crete.