Nymphes Luxury Apartments & Studios

This is a wonderful hideaway. Granted, it takes a bit of mettle (and God's good graces) to manage driving up/down the "challenging" - how should I say? - pathway to this perch above Agia Pelagia. But once you're there, it's not the altitude that takes your breath away. The views are spectacular! Sadly, when we were there, the mother of the owner had just passed away. But the door to our little nest was open, the room and glorious balcony were in perfect order ... and then there were the cats to keep us company in her stead. Obviously, I'm by no means ailurophobic: waking up early in the morning, watching the glorious sunset, and having one of those wonderful kittens take up housekeeping on your lap - OMG, the peace and warmth of the whole thing! Rugged, aesthetically inclined…... ++

I am in love with this place. Honestly, one of the biggest regrets of my trip to Crete was that we couldn't stay here longer, because two nights was definitely not enough. The reservation process happened entirely by e-mail and was so efficient and professional. When we finally arrived, my jaw dropped -- stunning view, pristine apartments, fantastic amenities (including a library). We were there in May, so it was too chilly to swim or even enjoy the balcony to its fullest. Since Nymphes sits atop a mountain, the wind is quite strong up there, so keep that in mind if you go during low-season. Also, it's a bit removed from the town, which sits along the water down below, so you'll need a car to come and go. Though breakfast isn't served at Nymphes, we found a small grocery…... ++

I have been going here every year for at least 5 years, and it always is an amazing experience. Not far from Heraklion (25km/25min) and from the beach (Ag. Pelagia, ~15min by car). It is up on a hill and thus very quiet, which is always hard to find in Crete in the summer. The evenings are often cool with a night breeze, which is a blessing in the hot Cretan summer. Pepi is a wonderful host, and takes care of any requests you may have with a smile and the traditional Cretan hospitality. The views from the balconies are truly amazing and breathtaking -- I could stay on the balcony for the entire vacation. The swimming pool is 12m long, which makes it great for relaxation but also for (light) workout swimming which is also great given how much one eats in the surrounding…... ++