"I liked feeling like I was living without electricity and having a gas lamp and gas stove."
Eghtebas from Germany
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"The peace and quite was amazing."
Toms from Latvia
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"The place is located in a very picturesque area and the atmosphere is one of a kind."
Aleksandar from Bulgaria
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"The locally prepared breakfast was just delicious! Real recommendation!"
Michael from Belgium
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"It is a place where you can clear your head of life's bustle."
Geoffrey from France
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Award-winning eco-retreat in Makry Gialos with solar-powered cottages
Accommodations
Aspros Potamos offers 10 individual cottages built into the hillside rock, each with its own private terrace and kitchenette. The units are furnished with traditional Cretan pieces and include a private bathroom, dining table, and outdoor furniture. All rooms are soundproofed and feature solar-charged LED lighting instead of electrical sockets.
Eco-Friendly Philosophy
The property holds the First European Award for renewable energy systems in Greece, a recognition for its off-grid operations. Rooms have no electrical sockets; guests use oil lamps and candles for lighting, while the fridge and bathroom light run on solar power. Phones and devices can be charged at the reception area, where free WiFi and a computer are available.
Amenities
Breakfast is served at the guest's preferred time after 09:30 and includes homemade cheese pie, pancakes, fresh lemonade, and fruit. The hotel has a coffee house on site, offers room service with special diet menus, and provides BBQ facilities for outdoor cooking. Fruits are available on request, and a sun terrace with garden seating overlooks the Libyan Sea.
Location
Pefki Gorge, a popular hiking trail, is within walking distance from the cottages, and the turquoise waters of Makrigialos beach are an 18-minute walk away. Local villages with traditional tavernas, such as Pefki village with the Piperia restaurant, are a short drive. The hotel provides a folder detailing the restoration of the 300-year-old guesthouse and local points of interest.
Amenities
Free private parking is available on-site, and pets are allowed with prior arrangement. The property offers family rooms and can host large groups, as each unit is a separate cottage with its own terrace. Guests can participate in yoga sessions, Tai Chi, or painting workshops arranged by the staff.
Highlights
Eco-credential: First European Award for renewable energy systems in Greece
Accommodations: 10 rock-built cottages with private kitchenettes and terraces
Experience: Off-grid stay with oil lamps, no electrical sockets
Dining: Made-to-order breakfast with Cretan specialties
Location: Walk to Pefki Gorge and Makrigialos beach
Activities: Yoga, Tai Chi, and painting workshops on-site
Must-do experiences
Taste fresh seafood at Taverna Plaka, a local favorite.
Visit the nearby Vai Beach to see the famous palm forest.
Explore the ruins of the ancient city of Itanos just nearby.
Try local raki at the charming Koutsouras village taverns.
Shop for handmade crafts at the weekly Makry Gialos market.
Select your room type
Aspros Potamos offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Economy Studio
2 persons
13 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Shower
room details
Studio
2 persons
18 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Shower
room details
One-Bedroom Apartment
2 persons
27 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Shower
room details
Show all rooms
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
October 2026 - October 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
Aspros Potamos offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.5/10Review score
General
Non-smoking rooms
Free Wi-Fi in public areas
Free parking
Safe deposit box
Pets allowed
Coffee shop
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Services
Room service
Dining
In-room breakfast
Special diet menus
Business
Fax/Photocopying
Children
Cots
Spa & Leisure
Sun terrace
Garden area
BBQ facilities
Room features
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Self-catering
Dryer
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Show more
Aspros Potamos Location
Aspros Potamos, Makry Gialos (Crete), 72055,
Explore Makry Gialos (Crete)
Local Experiences Near Aspros Potamos
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Diaskari Beach
17 minutes walking
Sandy beach known for crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Amenities and nearby cafes available.
Cretan Folklore Museum
20 minutes walking
Museum showcasing traditional Cretan life, offering guided tours and cultural insights into the island's rich heritage.
Limanaki Beach
20 minutes walking
Charming beach with shallow waters ideal for families. Cafés and sunbeds make it a relaxed spot to unwind.
Pefki Gorge
25 minutes walking
Stunning natural gorge offering hiking trails with breathtaking views. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Water Sports at Lagada Beach
8 minutes walking
Thrilling water sports such as jet skiing and paddleboarding. Rentals are available nearby for adventure-seekers.
Yoga Retreats
15 minutes walking
Relaxing yoga sessions offered at local studios. Perfect for stress relief and enjoying the scenic surroundings.
Hiking in the Surrounding Hills
20 minutes driving
Scenic hiking routes offering diverse landscapes and panoramic views. Variety of trails for all skill levels.
Local Market Days
15 minutes walking
Festive local markets featuring handmade goods and local produce. Great for cultural immersion on specific days.
Gabbiano Greek Restaurant-Cocktail-Bar
13 minutes walking
Charming eatery serving classic Greek dishes with cocktail options in a cozy atmosphere. Reservations recommended.
To Rakadiko tou Harri
12 minutes walking
Authentic Cretan taverna with homemade dishes and local wines. Casual ambiance perfect for families or casual dining.
Alliotiko
11 minutes walking
Elegant dining space offering creative Mediterranean cuisine. Ideal for special occasions and romantic dinners.
Aposperitis Taverna
15 minutes driving
Rustic ambience with a focus on local, farm-to-table ingredients. Great for trying authentic regional staples.
Minoan Cultural Center
10 minutes driving
Offers regular exhibitions and cultural events. Family-friendly space showing local traditions and art.
Beach Bars at Limanaki Beach
20 minutes walking
Lively beach bars with live music. Perfect for enjoying beach sunsets with tasty cocktails and local vibes.
Outdoor Cinema in Makry Gialos
10 minutes driving
Open-air cinema with family-friendly films and classic hits. Ideal spot for a relaxed evening under the stars.
Getting around
City Centre
Makry Gialos (Crete) 29 min · 1.5 mi
Airports
Sitia Public (JSH) 51 min · 20.8 mi
Nikos Kazantzakis (HER) 175 min · 72.5 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-20:00
Check-out
from 09:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Languages
English, German, Italian, Greek
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about Aspros Potamos from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 77 verified reviews
8.7 /10
Great
87 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
8.8/10
Comfort
8.7/10
Facilities
8.5/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.4/10
Location
9.0/10
Paid Wi-Fi
4.1/10
Staff
9.2/10
Value for money
8.7/10
Pros
Unique stone architecture
Peaceful valley location
Authentic Cretan atmosphere
Cute host
Cons
Limited electrical outlets
Basic kitchen equipment
Narrow access road
Guest reviews
based on 173 reviews
8.7/10
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 Aspros Potamos
Is wifi accessible within the guest rooms, or just in public areas?
10 November 2024
Free wifi is provided in the public areas near the reception, but it is not available inside the guest rooms.
Can I expect air conditioning in the guest accommodations?
22 January 2025
Air conditioning is not available; only fans are provided for cooling in the rooms.
Is there an availability for airport shuttle services?
5 December 2024
Aspros Potamos does not offer airport shuttle services.
Are there accommodations with balconies at the property?
15 August 2025
None of the accommodations feature balconies.
Is breakfast available on the site?
30 March 2024
Breakfast options can be checked by selecting your stay dates, then viewing available rooms.
What are the designated times for checking in and checking out?
18 June 2025
Check-in is from 14:00 to 20:00, and check-out is until 11:00. Special requests for early or late check-ins or check-outs can be made during booking but cannot be guaranteed.
Is parking available for guests arriving by car?
2 February 2025
Free private parking is available on site without the need for prior reservation.
Are private bathrooms included in the accommodations?
9 July 2024
Yes, there are rooms equipped with private bathrooms, but availability should be confirmed at the time of booking.
What local attractions and dining options can I explore nearby?
25 September 2024
For nearby restaurants, attractions, and transport options, check the dedicated section to discover what is available close to Aspros Potamos.
Is there an on-site restaurant for dining?
29 May 2025
Unfortunately, Aspros Potamos does not have an on-site restaurant available for dining.
Are there any wellness facilities, such as a spa, within the property?
12 November 2024
Aspros Potamos currently does not feature wellness facilities or a spa.
Can you share any details about the eco-friendly initiatives of Aspros Potamos?
14 March 2025
Aspros Potamos prioritizes environmental respect, utilizing only renewable energy sources, like its award-winning solar system, which provides electricity and hot water while minimizing ecological impact.