Neos Omalos Hotel

I knew as soon as I heard goats with their little bells on that I’d like this place. Quiet, quaint, country accomodation on the way to Samaria Gorge. The family who run it were all lovely, and mum even made me up a picnic to take on the hike before dad gave us a lift to the starting point. Maybe it’s because it never happens back home, but I ordered a beer downstairs upon arrival, and got given free olives - that made my absolute day and, though previously incorruptible, my loyalty was bought instantly and totally. I also had the rabbit fry up thingo, which tasted great, although the salad itself was even better, though it curse my carnivorous tongue to say it. The bedroom had a great balcony for looking out over the green and rocky hills. Bed was super comfy, and it actually was a little colder way up in the Omalos elevation (in June) which made sleep come very easily for those like me who run hot. Big fluffy blanket in the cupboard though for those of you who like to be warmer. The bathroom is a bit small and being on the tall end of the height spectrum I had to be wary not to knock myself out on the hand basin when using the toilet. But if you’re under 6 foot you’ll patting your genetics on their small back. The building is relatively old so expect to hear some footfalls as other guests go past your room, but other than that, blissfully quiet overnight. The daughter of the family speaks really good English which helped a couple times, when regretfully I seemed to have forgotten all my Greek (which I rudely hadn’t learned prior to arriving). I can’t recommend this homely hotel enough, so if you’re on your way to hike the gorge, park your car here and stay the night. Then stay in Agia Romelli at the very end of the hike. Then come back to Omalos the next day and get some home style cooking back into your weary body. Or whatever floats your ferry.

Best taverna in the snow. Comfortable wood charm winter atmosphere with well-placed fireplace. Large windows along the front giving a good view of the mountains across the road. Lively dinning room full of families. Good food and friendly service.

My husband and I stayed for two nights to hike the gorge of Samaria with our two school-aged children. The single rooms have very comfortable beds, the hotel is quiet and the space is more than enough to provide a restful stay. Very friendly hotel staff who truly went out of their way to assist us. Easy access to the entrance of the Samaria gorge as the hotel offers a mini van that takes you there in the morning free of charge. We returned back to the hotel after our hike from Sougia by public bus (ΚΤΕΛ). The public bus dropped us off right at the hotel. Dinner was always fresh and delicious. Service at the restaurant was excellent. I have recommended the Neos Omalos Hotel to my immediate greek family and we will definitely return to this hotel for other hikes in the area next time we visit Crete. Having hiked the Samaria gorge a few times myself, I find that driving to Omalos the day before the hike of the gorge of Samaria and spending the night there is so much easier for families than getting on a very early bus from Chania. The car drive to Omalos from Chania is not difficult at all compared to other areas in Crete. I highly recommend this hotel. Special thanks you to Mr. Giorgos for his hospitality!