Crysalis Studios — Hotel in Municipality of Festos

Crysalis Studios gave me everything I wanted from this holiday. Androniki made us feel perfectly at home, and though we were only there for one week we left feeling like we truly belonged in Kalamaki. So much of this was due to Androniki's care, attention and generosity throughout our stay. We left bearing gifts of home made wine and olive oil from the family farm and memories of happy hours spent on the sun kissed balcony with Androniki, her mother and other guests. The tradition of Greek hospitality is alive and well in Crysalis Studios and Kalamaki. I loved getting up in the morning, making coffee, going to the bakery and sitting on the balcony before wandering on to the beach. The evening brings a perfect view of the sunset which you can watch from the balcony or from one of the handful of bars or tavernas next to the beach. The whole village was relaxed, welcoming and helpful and it was a true pleasure to spend a week among the people and beautiful scenery of Kalamaki and the surrounding towns and mountains. Check out the roof terrace if you need sunbathing shelter from the occasional winds that affect Crete, or if you want a fine view of the sunset. Lastly, I recommend asking Adroniki to arrange transport from the airport and enjoying the boundless generosity of the driver, George, who gave us two of the most entertaining and fun filled cab rides of our lives (it's also 30 Euros cheaper than taking an airport taxi). Crysalis Studios will leave you dreaming of the possibility of escaping permanently to Kalamaki and a simpler way of life, be prepared for a brutal post...

Stayed three night at Crysalis and was one of the best experiences I had in Crete! Studio was large, beautiful, spotless, and with an astonishing view over the bay. You can sleep by listening to the sound of the waves a few meters under your terrace (from which it' possible to enjoy incredible sunsets!). The owner, Andy, is very friendly and make sure that your stay is as pleasant as possibile. More like a friend than an owner! This made me sad when I had to leave.. Btw, wifi is also very good, super helpful if you need to work/use the internet....

Avoid - they lie and will cancel your reservation without notice.

Right now we are stuck in the middle of Greece at midnight with nowhere to stay.

After two hours of waiting at the apartments and emailing and calling, the "host" told us she apparently cancelled our Agoda reservation and emailed me last week - except my Agoda app says the reservation is still valid and we received nothing.

Do not trust Crysalis. There are many other excellent reliable options in Kalamaki. Vacations are too short to rely on cheap...