Beautiful, extensive gardens, a quiet atmosphere, and traditional architectural touches are the defining characteristics at this mid-range self-catering option in the village of Koutouloufari. Galaxy Villas was constructed from scratch and opened in 1989, but with a traditional sensibility in mind: apartments are arranged in small two-story complexes reminiscent of traditional Cretan villages, and formed from locally-sourced materials including mountain stone. Dark stone flooring and cement walls in reception and apartments may feel spartan at first, but are accurate representations of traditional Cretan houses. Pastel shades of green, pink, and blue add a modern touch, and help to brighten interiors.

With the absence of activities and evening entertainment, the hotel is wonderfully quiet and low-key -- even at full occupancy. Dance music by the pool does liven things up in the daytime. Guests can stroll through the hotel’s lush gardens -- surrounded by tropical palms, olive trees, and flowering shrubs -- while beautiful views overlooking the sea add to the serenity. The hotel suits couples and families looking for a tranquil vacation surrounded by more authentic local culture, and attracts many visitors from the U.K., Germany, and the Netherlands. 

Galaxy Villas is situated on the local road that runs through Koutouloufari village, with plenty of restaurants and bars within a five-minute walk down the road. A bakery next door and supermarket across the road are convenient for self-catering guests, while the nearest beach is about a 15-minute walk downhill. Quieter Sarantari Beach is a 10-minute drive from the property, as is the old town in Hersonissos. Malia’s historic archaeological sites are 10 to 15 minutes away by car, and Heraklion Airport is a short 25-minute drive west.

The 53 apartments of Galaxy Villas are built from locally sourced materials, and are decorated with traditional Cretan design elements including dark stone flooring and cement walls. Pastel pink and blue shades brighten up spaces, though the look will appear spare to most travelers. All apartments have kitchenettes, living areas, flat-screen TVs, free air-conditioning, and furnished outdoor spaces. Bathrooms feature neutral gray tiling and either shower/tub combos or showers. Kitchenettes come equipped with small tabletop ovens with two electric cooking rings, tea kettles, and coffeemakers but no toasters or microwaves. Over half of the apartments have sea views, while the remainder overlook the pool or gardens.

Studio Villas are the most basic category, but still have a generous 40 square meters of space, and accommodate up to two adults. Standard Villas have separate bedrooms, as well as living areas with two single sofabeds. Superior Sea View Villas are larger and have sea views, plus either one or two separate bedrooms. Maisonettes are set over two floors, with the kitchenettes and living areas on the bottom floors and bedrooms on the top floor. Unfortunately, Wi-Fi is not available in rooms. 

Features here are limited, as the property is often utilized by independent, self-catering travelers. The sunny pool area contains an adult pool, as well as a separate children’s pool. The cozy poolside bar serves snacks and a la carte traditional Cretan dishes for dinner. A weekly barbecue adds variety to the menu, and the hotel offers a basic continental buffet breakfast. Breakfast-only and half-board plans are available. There are no activities or evening entertainment, but a small book exchange and pool table can be found in the lobby. Guests get discounted green fees and VIP tee times at the nearby Crete Golf Club, and other excursions can be arranged by reception. There’s free Wi-Fi in public spaces, as well as free private parking, although spaces can be limited.