Nautilus Bay Aparthotel

Situated at the western end of Crete's north coast, Kastelli - also known as Kissamos - strikes just the right balance between authentic small town and laid-back beach resort. There are around a dozen small hotels spread out along the rocky shore near the town centre and the sandy beach that lies just to the west, and there is an excellent selection of seafront tavernas catering to both holidaymakers and the local population. The town also boasts several well-stocked supermarkets, a handful of bars and a range of shops for all your holiday needs, including banks, pharmacies and tour agencies. There is even a small archaeological museum, and a regular bus service links Kastelli with Crete's former Venetian capital Chania, approximately 40 km to the east.

Nautilus Bay is a smart modern building occupying a prime position right on the eastern end of the sandy beach, next to a small stream that usually becomes a dry riverbed in the summer. As well as providing sunloungers and umbrellas on the beach for hotel guests, Nautilus Bay also boasts an enticing swimming pool and a paddling pool for children. A pool bar is on hand to provide refreshing drinks during the day.

Nautilus Bay comprises 26 spacious studios and apartments, which are furnished in an uncluttered, contemporary style. All have twin beds plus a convertible sofa that can accommodate one or two additional guests, a modern bath or shower room and a simple open-plan kitchenette unit with a fridge and two-ring hob. Other facilities include air-conditioning, satellite TV (limited English-language channels), safety deposit boxes and free WiFi. Each room also has a good-size balcony; those of the standard studios and 1-bedroom apartments enjoy lateral sea views across the pool and riverbed, whilst the superior studios boast direct sea and beach views.

As the kitchenettes are only equipped for rather basic self-catering tasks, we have included the breakfast buffet in our prices, but for those who prefer to do their own thing for breakfast we can also offer Nautilus Bay on a room-only basis. The hotel's restaurant also serves a selection of Cretan and European dishes for dinner, whilst those who prefer trying out different local restaurants and tavernas within easy walking distance, both further west along the beach towards the small fishing harbour, and in the main part of the town to the east, via the footbridge across the riverbed. Just across this bridge, you will also find a public basketball and tennis court, whilst the town centre and the archaeological museum are approximately 10 to 15 minutes' walk away.

Whilst Kastelli is a convenient base for those who do not wish to have to rely on a hire car, those who do choose to hire their own transport for at least part of their stay will find that some of the spectacular beaches along Crete's remote west coast can easily be visited from here, including Balos, Falassarna and Elafonissi.