"new apartments with exceptional interiors, a great location in the mountains, close to popular visiting places and incredibly welcoming owners."
Vidas from Lithuania
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"their terrace has an incredible view over the whole of the Amari Valley, with Mount Ida looming above."
David from United Kingdom
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"It offers wonderful views of the mountains, wonderful hospitality, a warm welcome and exceptional food, locally sourced and freshly cooked."
Timothy from United Kingdom
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"The tranquil location and the magnificent view."
Gintaras from Switzerland
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"The owners recommended several places to visit and activities to do around the area which made our trip even more authentic."
Marta G from Germany
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Family-run guest house in Thronos with Mount Ida views and Cretan cooking classes
Recently Renovated Rooms with Mountain Views
Aravanes offers nine recently renovated rooms with air conditioning and satellite TV. Each room includes a private bathroom and a balcony overlooking Mount Ida and the Amari Valley. The property also provides free on-site parking and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool with a shallow end and pool towels.
Traditional Tavern with Homegrown Food
The on-site traditional tavern cooks meals in a wood oven, using ingredients sourced from the family's own farm. Guests receive a personalized welcome with homemade bread and can enjoy a continental or à la carte breakfast with fresh pastries and juice. Special diet menus are available, and the restaurant offers local organic dining options.
Hands-On Cooking and Cultural Tours
Aravanes provides hands-on cooking and bread-making classes unique to the region, led by experienced multilingual guides. The hotel also organizes guided hiking tours, walking tours, and tours about local culture. In addition, live music performances are held three times a year, free of charge for guests.
Family-Friendly Amenities On-Site
The property features a children's playground and kids' outdoor play equipment, making it suitable for families with young children. Family rooms are available, and the outdoor swimming pool has a fence and a shallow end for safety. The family-run business creates a welcoming atmosphere with personalized attention from the owners.
Prime Location Near Historical Landmarks
Aravanes is located in the village of Thronos, 9 km from Arkadi Monastery and close to the Museum of Ancient Eleftherna. Psiloritis National Park and the scenic Amari Valley surround the property, offering ample hiking opportunities. Heraklion International Airport is 83 km away, with airport shuttle service available on request.
Highlights
Accommodation: Nine recently renovated rooms with Mount Ida views
Dining: Traditional tavern with wood-oven meals and organic farm produce
Activities: Hands-on cooking classes and guided cultural tours
Family: Children's playground and outdoor play equipment
Location: 9 km from Arkadi Monastery, near Psiloritis National Park
Experience: Personalized welcome with homemade bread and local wine
Must-do experiences
Visit the ancient ruins of the Thronos Fortress for stunning views.
Try the local gozleme at a nearby café for a delicious bite.
Explore the quaint streets of Thronos for charming local art shops.
Don't miss the vibrant Thronos market for fresh produce and crafts.
Join a traditional dance evening at the local community hall for fun.
Choose a room type
Aravanes provides double, family, and suite-style rooms, many with breakfast, free cancellation, and special offers
Deluxe Double Room
2 persons
175 sq. feet
2 Single beds
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Standard Double Room
2 persons
155 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Deluxe Triple Room
2 persons
230 sq. feet
2 Single beds and 1 Sofa bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Show all rooms
Rates & Availability Calendar
See live rates and availability for your travel dates.
Amenities
Aravanes provides amenities designed for a relaxing stay and memorable moments in Crete
Facilities: Perfect
9.3/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Free parking
No pets allowed
Security
Locker room
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access
Sports & Fitness
Hiking
Aerobics
Services
Paid airport shuttle
Laundry
Tours/Ticket assistance
Dining
Picnic area/ Tables
Special diet menus
Children
Cots
Children's play area
Spa & Leisure
Seasonal outdoor pool
Sun loungers
Live entertainment
Sun terrace
Pool with view
Shallow end
Room features
Air conditioning
Heating
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Media
Flat-screen TV
Show more
Aravanes: Location & Surroundings
Thronos Amariou, Rethymno, Crete, Thronos, 74061,
Map view
City landmarks
Landmark
Monastery Asomaton
1.5 mi
Landmark
Panagia Kera
1.7 mi
Church
Koimiseos Theotokou Church
1.8 mi
Landmark
Church of Saint Anna
2.0 mi
Landmark
Old Quarter
2.1 mi
Landmark
Tower bell
2.2 mi
Landmark
Monastiraki
2.4 mi
Landmark
Monastery of Arkadi
3.7 mi
Nearby
Archaeological Site of Thronos
600 ft
Restaurants
Violis Taverna
2600 ft
Klisidi Municipality of Amari
Explore Thronos
Explore Thronos Amariou
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Archaeological Site of Thronos
3 minutes walking
Ancient ruins featuring well-preserved structures and diverse artifacts, offering insights into Cretan history.
Monastery Asomaton
25 minutes' walk
A historic monastery showcasing stunning architecture and serene gardens, ideal for a peaceful visit.
Panagia Kera
30 minutes' walk
This quaint church features beautiful frescoes and a charming atmosphere, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Old Quarter
35 minutes' walk
Vibrant streets filled with shops and cafes, the Old Quarter is perfect for an afternoon stroll through Crete's culture.
Hiking Trails
5-minute drive
Enjoy scenic hiking trails nearby, ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes suitable for all skill levels.
Wellness Retreats
10-minute drive
Relax at local wellness retreats offering massages, yoga classes, and peaceful surroundings to rejuvenate your spirit.
Visit Local Markets
10-minute drive
Experience vibrant local markets featuring fresh produce and handmade goods, offering a taste of authentic Cretan life.
Mountain Biking
5-minute drive
Thrilling mountain biking trails available, with rentals nearby offering tailored experiences for adventure seekers.
Violis Taverna
10 minutes' walk
Traditional Cretan cuisine in a cozy setting known for fresh local ingredients and signature dishes, including lamb.
Taverna Ouzeri
10-minute drive
A charming spot for seafood specialties, with a welcoming atmosphere and outdoor seating under olive trees.
Raki Bar
10-minute drive
Casual bar atmosphere offering local wines and raki. Great for relaxing after a day of exploring.
The Olive Tree
15-minute drive
Elegant dining experience featuring Mediterranean cuisine with vegetarian and gluten-free options. Reservations recommended.
Local Music Night at Taverna
10-minute drive
Live music events featuring local artists every weekend, creating an authentic cultural experience for all ages.
Cretan Cinema
10-minute drive
Experience Greek and international films in a quaint cinema; a perfect outing for families or couples.
Comedy Night
10-minute drive
Weekly comedy shows that promise laughter and great company, ideal for a fun night out.
Dance Club in Rethymno
15-minute drive
A lively club atmosphere offers great music and dancing, perfect for adults looking to enjoy the nightlife.
Transport options
City Centre
Thronos 2 min · 400 ft
Airports
Nikos Kazantzakis (HER) 142 min · 58.6 mi
Souda (CHQ) 149 min · 61.3 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-22:00
Check-out
from 09:00-11:00
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs EUR 12.0 per person.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
9
Guest Reviews & Ratings
See what past guests have said about their stay at Aravanes.
Cleanliness
9.7/10
Comfort
9.4/10
Facilities
9.3/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.5/10
Location
9.7/10
Staff
9.7/10
Value for money
9.7/10
Guest reviews
based on 313 reviews
9.6/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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Questions of the users
About Aravanes
How many guests can stay at Aravanes, and is it suitable for a pre-wedding gathering?
10 June 2024
Aravanes can accommodate up to 15 guests across five different rooms. It also features a beautiful wedding venue for pre-wedding traditional activities. More details can be provided upon request.
Is there an option for airport shuttle service to and from the hotel?
15 July 2024
An airport shuttle service is available for an additional fee. This can be requested after booking your stay.
Are there any rooms with balconies available?
22 August 2024
Yes, some rooms at Aravanes come with balconies. Availability can be confirmed by selecting your travel dates.
Does Aravanes offer breakfast during the stay?
1 September 2024
Breakfast options may be available, which can be checked by selecting your travel dates.
What are the standard check-in and check-out procedures?
5 October 2024
Check-in is available from 15:00 to 22:00, and check-out is until 11:00. Special requests for early or late check-in/check-out can be made during the booking process but cannot be guaranteed.
Is there on-site parking available for guests?
12 November 2024
Yes, there is free private parking available on-site without the need for a reservation.
Do the rooms at Aravanes have private bathrooms?
20 December 2024
Rooms with private bathrooms are available. You can check for availability based on your selected travel dates.
What attractions and amenities are located near Aravanes?
27 January 2025
To explore nearby restaurants, attractions, and public transport options, click the link provided for property surroundings.
Are meals available at the hotel, like lunch or dinner options?
15 February 2025
Aravanes does not have an on-site restaurant, but meals can be enjoyed at the nearby taverna.
Is there a swimming pool available for guests to use?
28 March 2025
There is a swimming pool at Aravanes, although its availability may vary. Confirm this by selecting your dates.