SanSal Boutique Hotel, Chania

Pros

• The SanSal has a stellar view of the sea from its rooftop, which features a bar and a pool.
• The entire hotel is wheelchair-accessible. 
• The hotel is open year-round, which makes it a great option for travelers heading to Crete in the off-season or winter.

Cons

• The hotel isn't located in the Old Town, a location some travelers prefer. 
• While the hotel is open year-round, the rooftop pool is only open seasonally.

Authenticity

The SanSal was built in 2020 and opened that same year, so while it doesn’t have the historical charm of some other Chania hotels, it does have authentic Cretan hospitality. While Greeks generally are known for their hospitality or philoxenia ("friend of the stranger," which dates back to ancient Greece—the idea is that one should be nice to the stranger because he may be Zeus in disguise), Cretans are known to take it to the next level. As SanSal's manager noted, this hotel offers "more than 5-star service" because hospitality is what guests remember as much as a nice room or view. So, if you're taking a late flight, feel free to leave your bags with reception and take a shower in the business center, or talk to anyone at the front desk to see what local tips and insights they can give you.

Location

The SanSal Boutique Hotel is located just outside the western edge of Old Town, five minutes by foot from the start of the Venetian Harbor. Walk to the Firka Fortress in five minutes and be in the cobblestoned streets of Old Town in the same amount of time. The start of the Chania Lighthouse path is 20 minutes away by foot, or if you're in a beachy mood, head in the other direction to get to Nea Chora Beach in just 10 minutes walking (or five driving).

Rooms & Bathrooms

The 23 rooms of the SanSal are all clean, modern, light, and open. All of the rooms have balconies that are the same size and while they all do face the sea, they don't all have sea views due to the tree line just in front of the hotel. Book a room on a higher floor to ensure you have a clear view of the nearby water. The rooms are all spacious and comfortably sleep up to two people. There are sofabeds in some suites. Those looking to soak in a tub can check out the junior suite, while the premium suite has wraparound windows. There's one deluxe suite with a private pool and one ADA-compliant room for travelers with wheelchairs.

Amenities

The hotel's rooftop infinity pool is a major plus. The same space features a natural grass lawn, a bar, and a lounge, all with sea views. Be sure to grab a spot in the pool or at the bar for sunset, as the SanSal offers one of the best sunset views around. There's no gym or spa, but the hotel is outfitted to welcome travelers with limited mobility.

Family-Friendliness

The hotel isn't the best option for families with kids, as the minimum required age is 11 years old. Most rooms only accommodate two people.

Other Highlights

Breakfast is included, and guests can choose between an a la carte menu or a breakfast buffet. The hotel's modern restaurant focuses on local Cretan cuisine for lunch and dinner. Drinks are available from both the restaurant and the poolside bar.