
Crete's Hidden Gem: Kantouni 2 Apartment - Your Dream Heraklion Stay!
Crete's Hidden Gem: Kantouni 2 Apartment - My Messy, Honest, and Absolutely Human Review! (Plus, You NEED to Book This!)
Okay, listen up, fellow travelers! I've just returned from a whirlwind adventure in Heraklion, Crete, and I’m still buzzing. And a HUGE part of that buzz? Kantouni 2 Apartment - Your Dream Heraklion Stay! The name’s a mouthful, I know, but trust me, this place is a secret weapon. More secret than a feta cheese recipe passed down through generations. Forget those sterile, cookie-cutter hotels; we’re talking about a genuine Cretan experience, seasoned with a healthy dose of modern convenience.
Let's dive deep, shall we? Buckle up, because this review is going to be honest, a little messy, and full of the kind of real-life experiences you won't find in those polished brochures.
First Impressions (and a slight moment of panic…but a good one!)
Finding this place was part of the fun. It's tucked away, a true "hidden gem" as the name suggests. My GPS was going haywire, I nearly drove into a charming little bakery bursting with the smell of freshly baked bread (more on that later!), and then…BAM! There it was. The exterior? Charming. The first impression? Totally lived up to the photos. That initial feeling of "did I book the right place?" vanished in a heartbeat.
Accessibility (The Crucial Stuff!)
Full disclosure: I don't use a wheelchair, but I paid CLOSE attention to this. Good news for those who need it! Kantouni 2 is surprisingly accessible. There’s an elevator, a HUGE plus in a multi-story building, which is a breath of fresh air. I saw a ramp that appeared to offer easy access to all areas, though I didn't test it out. Honestly, finding well-thought-out accessibility can be a pain, and the presence of an elevator alone is a major win. I couldn't find details on the specific "facilities for disabled guests" so it might be worth a quick phone call to ask. Overall, a solid foundation for accessibility.
Cleanliness and Safety (Because, you know, life!)
Okay, let's just say I'm a bit of a germaphobe. (Okay, maybe a LOT). I'm always wary of booking after the pandemic but these guys did well. And I'm happy to report that Kantouni 2 delivers. They're clearly taking safety seriously. I saw hand sanitizer everywhere. They use anti-viral cleaning products, rooms are sanitized between stays, and they even had individually-wrapped food options for breakfast. The staff wore masks, and the whole vibe was "Chill, but also, we care about your well-being." They also have a doctor/nurse on call which is reassuring, and the presence of smoke alarms and a fire extinguisher are never a bad thing.
The Rooms – My Sanctuary (and occasional battlefield of decisions!)
Alright, let's get personal. I booked a room with…well, most of the bells and whistles.
- Air conditioning? Absolutely. Crucial in the Cretan heat!
- Free Wi-Fi? You betcha. And it's actually free and works!
- Blackout curtains? Saved my life! Seriously. I slept like a baby (once I’d finished gorging on feta).
- Coffee/Tea maker? Essential. I need my caffeine fix ASAP.
- Refrigerator? Perfect for stocking up on Cretan wine and those delicious, juicy oranges.
- Private bathroom? Yes, and the water pressure was amazing – a true luxury after a day of exploring. (Although, confession: I spent a shocking amount of time just standing under the shower. It was THAT good.)
- And…the bed. Extra long. This is a lifesaver for tall people like me! So comfortable I actually considered moving in permanently.
My room felt like a little haven. Oh, and I had a window that opened! Fresh air, what a concept.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (My Personal Highlight Reel)
Okay, this is where I really started to fall in love. Kantouni 2 doesn’t have its own on-site restaurant, but that’s actually genius. Because Heraklion is a foodie paradise! But they do offer some service elements that are great.
- Breakfast in room? YES! A lifesaver after a late night exploring.
- Breakfast takeaway service? Genius idea. Sometimes your stomach is screaming for food but your body just needs a bit longer to chill.
- Room service (24-hour)? Yep. I may or may not have ordered a midnight snack of olives and cheese…don’t judge me.
- Bottled water? Always appreciated.
- Coffee/tea in restaurant? Always a plus!
- And because I had to go to other venues- the area around this property is fantastic for eating and drinking!
The Perks & The Extras (Stuff That Makes Life Easier)
- Daily housekeeping? Glorious. I'm on vacation, not a cleaning crew!
- Luggage storage? Saved me when I arrived way before check-in.
- Concierge? Super helpful with recommendations and booking tours.
- Currency Exchange? Really handy.
- Air conditioning in public areas? Yes. Another essential.
- Free car park? What a relief!
- Elevator? Already mentioned, but worth repeating!
Things to Do (Because You Didn't Come to Sit in Your Room…Mostly.)
Okay, here's where Kantouni 2 REALLY shines. It's the perfect base for exploring Heraklion and surrounding areas.
- Terrace: A fantastic spot for a glass of wine and people-watching.
- Airport transfer: A great convenience. No wrestling with taxis after a flight.
- CCTV in common areas: Helps create a sense of security.
- Front desk (24-hour): Someone always there to help or answer questions.
- Wake-up service: Never missed a sunrise (or a good breakfast).
The "Meh" (Because No Place is Perfect)
- There's no on-site fitness center or spa. (But, honestly, walking around Heraklion is a workout in itself. And the beach is a short cab ride away.)
- No on site restaurant.
Overall Vibe
Kantouni 2 has a certain charm. It's not a sterile, impersonal hotel. It's more like a home away from home, but with better amenities.
The Verdict?
Book it! Seriously. I'm already planning my return trip. It's clean, comfortable, conveniently located, and the staff is genuinely lovely. It's a true Cretan experience.
My Honest-to-God Recommendation (and Why YOU Should Book NOW!)
This isn't just a hotel review, it's a love letter. I can not recommend Kantouni 2 Apartments enough. It's a place where you can genuinely relax, explore, and immerse yourself in the Cretan way of life. Plus, the value for money is outstanding. Forget those tourist traps; this is the real deal.
Here’s the deal (and where you win!):
Instead of just offering you a room, Kantouni 2 Apartment are offering you an experience. They are offering a chance to come to their Crete and live like a local.
So, are you ready for the Crete adventure of a lifetime?
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Adele's Mahkota Valley Suite in Kuantan!
Okay, buckle up buttercups. This isn't just a travel itinerary, it's a story. A messy, glorious, sun-kissed story unfolding in Kantouni 2 Heraklion Apartment, Crete. Consider this your invitation to the madness.
The Crete Chronicle: A Slightly Unhinged Adventure
Pre-Trip Anxiety & the Great Packing Debacle (a.k.a. The "I'm Definitely Forgetting Something" Phase)
- Day 0 (or, "The Day I Questioned My Existence"): The moment of truth. Passport? Check (phew). Underwear? Double check (because, you know, emergencies). Sunscreen? Yes, but will I actually use it? Let's be honest, I'll probably end up looking like a lobster. Cue the frantic "what-if" scenarios: what if they lose my luggage? What if the plane falls out of the sky? What if I get trapped in a taverna and forced to eat all the souvlaki? (Okay, maybe that last one isn't so bad). Packed bags. Or so I thought. Then, the shoes, because let me tell you, a woman can never have enough shoes.
Arrival & Apartment Awkwardness (or, "Finding My Feet… and Possibly Losing Them to a Stray Olive")
Day 1: Landing & Limbo (or, "Is That a Gyro?"): Finally! Touchdown in Heraklion. The air… oh, that air! Feels like promises and ouzo. Taxi ride to the apartment. Kantouni 2… the reviews were glowing: "charming", "rustic", "perfect location." Which, to be honest, is a bit of a euphemism. It's… compact. Cozy. Let's stick with quirky. First impression: slightly smaller than I envisioned, but hey, the balcony has a view, and that's all that really matters! Unpack, which is more like "rummage," and crash. Jet lag is a sneaky beast. Then, venturing out to the local supermarket. Seriously, the olives. Everywhere. I'm now convinced they're sentient. Dinner at a taverna. The Greek salad was divine. The feta? Life-changing. (Cue excessive cheese consumption for the remainder of the holiday.)
Day 2: Knossos & Cultural Clashes (or, "The Minotaur's Made Me Cry… Twice.") Knossos Palace. The Minoan ruins. Holy. Moly. That place is massive. And hot. Seriously, bring water and a hat, you'll need it. The history is awesome. The history gets under your skin. The story of the Minotaur? Tragic. I may have shed a tear or two pondering the fate of that poor labyrinth-dwelling beast. Afterwards went to the archaeological museum. Afterwards… a very necessary ice cream cone to cool down and try to comprehend what I'd just seen. The day ended with a lovely (but slightly overpriced) meal in the old harbor.
The Beach, the Bougainvillea, and the Existential Dread (or, "Is This Real Life?")
Day 3: Beach Bummin’ & Philosophical Musings (or, "The Sun, The Sand, The… Seagulls?") Time for the beach. Found a little sandy nook not too far away from the apartment. Glorious. I spent most of the day in a blissful haze, alternating between reading (a trashy romance novel, naturally) and staring out at the turquoise water. Got a bit of a tan. Well, more like a blush. The seagulls, though. They're like little winged gangsters, eyeing your snacks with predatory intent. Had a moment of profound, beach-based existentialism: Am I happy? Should I be doing more? Is this the best feta I've ever tasted? Conclusion: yes, yes, and yes.
Day 4: Cooking Disaster & Island Charm (or, "My Attempt at Greek Food was a Tragedy.") Tried to cook a Greek meal at the apartment. "Easy," they said. "Authentic," they promised. Utter. Disaster. The moussaka was a gloopy, flavorless mess. I'm pretty sure the cat was more interested in the leftovers than I was. But hey, at least I tried, right? The afternoon was spent exploring a charming little village. Found a tiny pottery shop where I bought the most hideous, yet strangely endearing, vase. The old man who owned the shop? He told me stories, drank some raki with me (which tasted of fire), and made me realize that yes, the little imperfections are what make life beautiful.
Diving Deep: The Day That Changed Everything
- Day 5: A Day to be a Local (or, "Finding My Crete Within Myself"): The day I decided to ditch the tourist trail. I was done with the pre-packaged experiences. It was time to just be. Woke up early, took a scenic bus ride, and went to the smaller towns. Started the morning off at a local bakery, I ate some bougatsa (custard pie) and strong Greek coffee. Then went to a small fishing village, that was the exact place where I was going to stay in my next life. I sat, and I watched. I spoke to no one, but I understood it all. I sat, and took time to breathe. I sat, and I realized this was exactly where I wanted to be.
The Last Laugh & the Lingering Longing (or, "When Does the Next Trip Start?")
- Day 6: Last Supper & Farewell Feels (or, "I Left My Heart in Crete… and Possibly a Pair of Sandals.") Last day already! Snuck in another beach session, followed by a final, epic meal at a taverna. Ate all the things. Drank all the things. Did I mention the wine? Oh, the wine… Now walking around with a sense of loss. Everything seems muted. It’s time to pack, or, put all my things back in a bag. That’s the reality of it. Leaving Kantouni 2… I'm sad. The apartment was a mess, but it was my mess. Crete has gotten under my skin. The memories. The smells. The taste of the food. The warmth. The way it made me feel, more alive than I'd felt in ages. I'm already planning the return trip.
- Day 7: Departure The journey back home. My heart is in Crete. It was the adventure of a lifetime. I'll always cherish the memories, the flavors, and most importantly, the lessons it taught me.
Important Notes (or, "The Stuff I Forgot to Tell You.")
- Language: Learn a few basic Greek phrases. The locals appreciate it. Even if your pronunciation is atrocious (mine certainly was).
- Food: Eat everything. Seriously. Don't be shy. Sample the olive oil, the honey, the pastries… all of it.
- Transportation: Rent a car if you’re brave. Otherwise, buses are reliable and relatively cheap.
- Embrace the chaos: Things don't always go to plan. Delays, wrong turns, unexpected encounters… They're all part of the adventure.
- Most importantly: Relax, breathe, and enjoy the ride!
This, my friends, is just the beginning. Crete awaits. Now, go make some memories. And maybe learn an actual Greek word.
Udaipur Airport Hotel: Galaxy's Stunning Luxury Awaits!
Kantouni 2 Apartment: Your Aegean Adventure Awaiting (Maybe! Let's See...)
Okay, spill the beans! What's the *real* deal with Kantouni 2? Is it actually as dreamy as the photos?
Alright, alright, settling down now... Let's be honest, those photos? They're usually *slightly* better than reality, right? But Kantouni 2... yeah, it's pretty darn close. **Dreamy?** Absolutely, *sort of*. Okay, real talk: It’s not a palace. It’s a *lovely* apartment, close to the beach, and the views are spectacular. I mean, I spent a whole hour just *staring* out the balcony at sunset, utterly mesmerized. The photos... they show you the *potential* and Kantouni 2 delivers on a lot of it. But... (and there's always a "but," isn't there?) remember you're on a Greek island. Expect some quirks. Like, the shower pressure can be a *bit* temperamental. But hey, it's part of the charm, right? ... Right?! I *still* miss that sunset view though.
Location, location, location! Where *exactly* is this hidden gem? And is it easy to get to?
Okay, so it's in...wait, let me remember... Ah, it's near... *sighs, pulls up Google Maps* ... It's in Ammoudara, which is a short drive from Heraklion. The airport's also pretty close (and that's a HUGE bonus after a long flight). Getting there? Easy peasy. Rent a car (highly recommended, trust me!), or grab a taxi. Public transport? Technically possible, but... Greek buses are... an experience. Let's just say they run on "Greek time." Which, if you haven't gathered, is often slower. I'd *highly* recommend a car, though. Gives you freedom to explore. The drive *to* the apartment is super easy, but parking... can be a *bit* of a challenge in high season. I remember one day, circling the block for what felt like an eternity, before finding a spot that probably wasn't *technically* legal. But hey, it worked!
What's the apartment *actually* like? Spill the tea! Is it clean? Is it comfortable?
Alright, let's dive deep. Cleanliness? Pretty good, honestly. I'm a bit of a clean freak myself, and I didn't feel the urge to scrub down the entire place the second I walked in (a good sign!). Comfortable? Yes, very. The bed was a *dream*. I'm talking, *slept like a baby* good. The air conditioning worked like a charm (essential in the Cretan heat!), and the balcony... oh, the balcony. Breakfast with that view? Pure bliss. The kitchen's functional - you're not going to be hosting a Michelin-star chef, but you can definitely whip up some basic meals. One minor thing: the kitchen had a few more pots & pans. I'm guessing that the hosts were still trying to get the kitchen set up perfectly. So don't expect a fully featured kitchen. But overall, a solid comfortable apartment, as advertised.
The beach! Is it *really* steps away? Is it any good?
Okay, the beach! Here's the juicy part. "Steps away"? Okay, maybe not *literally* steps. More like a *short* walk. But yes, it's close. And the beach itself? It's decent. Sandy, with clear water. It gets a little crowded during peak season, naturally. One thing that *really* sticks out: The sheer joy of walking to the beach in your swimsuit in, like, *30 seconds*! It instantly changes your mentality. The beach is good for swimming, sunbathing, and generally relaxing. You can find places to rent sunbeds and umbrellas. There are some restaurants and cafes nearby. It's not the most *spectacular* beach in Crete, but it's convenient, clean, and definitely adds to the overall appeal of the apartment. I spent so much time on that beach. I almost lost that very important book I was reading once...
Are there any restaurants or shops nearby? I don't want to *have* to cook all the time!
Oh, thank the gods, no! You *definitely* don't have to cook all the time. There are restaurants and tavernas nearby, ranging from casual to slightly more upscale. You'll find everything from gyros (a MUST try!) to fresh seafood. The food is generally fantastic, and the prices are reasonable. There are also some little shops for groceries and essentials. I remember stumbling upon a little bakery and eating the most *amazing* bread I've possibly ever tasted. Seriously, I still dream about it! It made me realize how bland bread is back home. You'll be well-fed, my friend. Just, you know, pace yourself. And try *everything*. Especially the local wine. Don't say I didn't warn you...
What are the hosts like? Are they friendly and helpful?
The hosts? They were lovely. Really, genuinely lovely. They were communicative and helpful before I arrived, and ready to help if I needed anything during my stay. They were available but also gave you your space, which I always appreciate. I accidentally locked myself out of the apartment one morning (oops!) and they sorted it out quickly, with a smile. They also gave some helpful tips on local restaurants and things to do. The hosts made you feel at home. So, yes: Friendly and helpful, a huge bonus! It definitely adds to the positive experience.
What are the pros and cons in a nutshell? Give it to me straight!
Alright, here's the TL;DR version: **Pros:** Close to the beach. Amazing views. Comfortable apartment (mostly!). Friendly hosts. Convenient location near Heraklion. Good value. **Cons:** Shower pressure *can* be a little wonky. Limited kitchen equipment. Parking can be a pain. Might not be the most "luxury" place, but it's perfect if you want a relaxed, comfortable stay. **Final Verdict:** I'd go back in a heartbeat. Seriously.
What's the one thing you'd change about the apartment?
Honestly? I'd add a better coffee maker. I'm a coffee addict, and the one in the apartment was... well, let's just say I had to get *creative* with my brewing methods. I ended up doing a lot of instant coffee because I am *totally* addicted to coffee. But that's it. A tiny complaint, really. Everything else was pretty much perfect.

