Ammos

This effortlessly stylish seaside hotel has carved a niche in designer chic for families.

• The irresistible breakfast spread, with freshly baked Cretan cookies, pies and cakes.
• Real Greek food in the waterfront restaurant – without the usual hotel mark-ups.
• Owner Nikos Tsepetis’ colorful, clashing collection of designer chairs.
• Watching the sunset with an organic Brink’s beer, brewed on the island.

On a lovely sandy bay, this small but lovely resort was originally built in the ‘70s. Owner/manager Nikos Tsepetis is a perfectionist and design fanatic: every year, he obsessively upgrades the hotel, adding to his collection of designer chairs, replacing the pillows, or laying beautiful tiled floors. Only the genuinely helpful team remains the same, welcoming the regulars year after year. The whole set-up is ideal for families, with a shallow beach, huge playroom, accommodating staff (they’ll even provide baby monitors so parents can dine in peace). There's also excellent, affordable home cooking. (The kaltsounakia—bite-size turnovers filled with local myzithra cheese or spinach—are especially addictive).

The boxy, white exterior conceals daring colors and striking details: clashing Marimekko fabrics, canary yellow Bissazza tiles, a rainbow of Moroso stools. Bedrooms are unfussy, but supremely comfortable—the perfect balance of casual and stylish. Garden view suites, the only rooms that can accommodate a family of four, are so in demand you’ll need to book a year in advance. Couples who want to avoid babies should stay away in May and steer clear of ground floor rooms overlooking the pool, which can be noisy. But for families, this is an easy-going escape that checks all the boxes: a great beach, yummy food, and good value.

It’s a 10-minute drive or scenic coastal stroll to the bustling Old Town of Chania, where you’ll find lively bars and excellent tavernas (away from the touristy waterfront). Just ask Nikos for his insider tips on where to go—he has the lowdown on everything from deserted beaches to dramatic hikes.

Style-conscious couples with pre-schoolers or anyone who is not intimidated by children.