Corali Studios and Portobello Apartments

I've stayed at the Corali studio & Portobello hotel for the third time. Mary Joanna and Helen gave me a very warm welcome. The rooms are a nice size and have kitchenette facilities, with good-sized balconies looking out over the sea and the mountains of beautiful Elounda. The gardens and swimming pool are lovely.

From the bedroom balcony, we could see the sea and Spinalonga lit up at night. Inside, there's a good-sized twin room, with a separate hall containing the bathroom, a great shower and a large wardrobe. The kitchen is separate too, with a full-size fridge, toaster, kettle, crockery and a small breakfast table with chairs. It looks onto the lovely garden and pool, with mountain views. The location is prime, in beautiful Elounda within walking distance of the pretty harbour and all the best restaurants. The room is spacious and there are no faults here. The only extra that would have been useful is some cushions for the two large settees that double as beds and for the patio chairs.

The location is hard to beat, with the beach across the way and the port, town centre, restaurants, and supermarket all right nearby. I’ve only just checked in, and they offered me a sea-view studio for the same price. I’m enjoying that view already. The staff are friendly, welcoming, and helpful, and the room and bathroom are simple, clean, and a decent size. Five stars from me so far.

The beach and water here are superb, and there are very good restaurants close by. The shopping lane is also within easy reach. It’s a great base for exploring Eastern Crete if you have a rental car. I’d come back.