Embrace the Old World Charm of Casa dei Delfini
Discover the enchanting Casa dei Delfini, a boutique hotel elegantly perched within the historic heart of Rethymno, Crete. This architectural marvel, nestled at 66-70 Nikiforou Foka Street, is where the Renaissance meets the Orient amidst the cobblestoned charm of Crete’s jewel, the old town.
The meticulous restoration of two venerable buildings from the Venetian and Ottoman eras has given birth to a destination that boasts not just a façade with Renaissance and Ottoman masterpieces but also a living testament to the town’s rich history.
Casa dei Delfini is more than a hotel; it’s a museum-like sanctuary where every corner tells a story. The inner courtyard reveals a stunning stone dolphin mosaic, ancient wells, and a majestic dining hall adorned with five stone columns and arches, each with tales spanning centuries.
Here, the past and present fuse seamlessly, offering guests an unforgettable stay where authentic Cretan hospitality and modern comforts blend beautifully. Experience a slice of history, a touch of elegance, and a heartfelt appreciation of Crete’s timeless beauty at Casa dei Delfini, the perfect retreat for those seeking a unique getaway in Rethymno.
What we liked the most
- Majestic Renaissance and Ottoman architectural fusion
- Intriguing museum-like interior courtyards
- Luxurious rooms blending tradition with modernity
- Impressive hall with ancient stone columns
- Cutting-edge amenities for effortless comfort
- Authentic Cretan hospitality, warmth in every greeting
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Rooms Overview
At Casa dei Delfini, each room unfolds its story through elegant decor and fine furnishings set against the timeless beauty of wood beam ceilings and stone walls. Air-conditioned for comfort, these units come with all modern conveniences, including flat-screen satellite TVs and safes. Selected rooms feature inviting seating and dining areas, crafting a perfect blend of luxury and homeliness. Whether for families or couples, it’s an idyllic haven for relaxation and romance.
Superior Studio Ground Floor
Stepping into the Superior Studio on the ground floor, guests are enveloped in the charm of an ancient Venetian mansion, its entrance guarded by the iconic “dolphin pebble” of the inner courtyard. Earthy tones and cool, welcoming spaces blend seamlessly, crafting an immersive Old Town Rethymno experience. This studio, accommodating up to three guests, promises a unique blend of history and comfort.
Standard Studio Ground Floor
With its sensual ambiance, the Standard Studio on the ground floor features a captivating stone well and an arch cradling the double bed, illuminated by atmospheric lighting to accentuate its architectural heritage. Entering from the courtyard, marked by the “dolphin pebble,” guests find themselves in a romantic setting ideal for two, embodying the spirit of Old Town Rethymno.
Standard Studio First Floor
Once the heart of the mansion, the “museum” room on the first floor invites guests into living history with its preserved oven, fireplace, and hammam, all stone-crafted relics of a bygone era. Gazing out from the quaint balcony, the view of the “dolphin pebble” in the courtyard below weaves a connection to the storied past, offering guests an immersive, historical retreat.
Superior Studio First Floor
The Superior Studio on the first floor, once the grand “portego” welcoming visitors in the Venetian era, now offers a tranquil sanctuary bathed in natural light. Decorated in soothing earthy shades and framed by openings that embrace the day, its balcony overlooks the enchanting courtyard and “dolphin pebble.” A serene retreat for two, this space harmoniously blends history with contemporary comfort.
Superior Maisonette
The Superior Maisonettes at Casa dei Delfini, perched atop the historic building, offer a majestic two-story retreat with lofty ceilings and an airy open-plan layout leading to an interior patio and veranda. Bathed in sunlight through expansive windows, these spaces, once the heart of noble life and zenana, promise a unique and luminous stay steeped in the rich tapestry of Rethymno’s Old Town.
Junior Suite
The Junior Suites at Casa dei Delfini grace the first floor of an Ottoman mansion, transforming historical day-care rooms into havens of light and elegance. Large windows invite the sun to play on stone walls, marrying the old with the new in a selective design. Each suite, whether with a patio or balcony, offers a distinctive retreat in the heart of Old Town Rethymno.
Penthouse Suite
Perched atop the Ottoman edifice, the Penthouse Suite offers unparalleled panoramic views, capturing the castle and mountain silhouettes against the Old City’s skyline. It is a realm of luxury divided into sleeping and living areas, bathed in light from numerous windows and featuring an indoor jacuzzi. It’s a sanctuary designed for sublime relaxation and enjoyment, providing a unique vantage point over Rethymno.
Services and facilities
Taste the flavors
Breakfast
Begin each day at Casa dei Delfini with a delightful breakfast buffet, offering an array of choices to suit every palate. From continental to vegan and gluten-free options, the spread is wonderful and accommodating. Indulge in various fresh, flavorful selections that promise to energize and inspire your explorations in the heart of Rethymno.
About Sustainability
Citrus, the fruit of Promise, indicates that the property is noticeably eco-conscious as many areas of sustainability are addressed.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Casa dei Delfini champions recycling and eschewing single-use plastics and employs water-efficient fixtures to conserve resources.
- Sustainable Dining: Offers predominantly locally sourced, organic food, including vegetarian and vegan options, reducing its carbon footprint.
- Energy Efficiency: Utilizes LED lighting, double-glazed windows, and motion-controlled electricity for energy conservation.
- Community Support: Invests in local community projects, promotes local artists, and prioritizes activities led by local guides.
- Educational Initiatives: Provides guests valuable insights into local culture, ecosystems, and sustainable practices.
Explore the location
Nestled in the heart of Rethymno's historic old town, Casa dei Delfini offers a gateway to a world where Venetian elegance meets Ottoman charm. The narrow streets, lined with buildings that boast wooden parapets stretching out over the pathways, tell stories of a bygone era. Just a stone's throw away, the Historical and Folklore Museum, Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, and the Centre of Byzantine Art invite guests to delve deeper into the island's rich cultural tapestry.
Explore Rethymno like a local!
A short stroll leads to the lush Municipal Garden, a serene escape, and the imposing Fortezza Castle, perched majestically at 450 m, offering panoramic views of the city's past and present. For those seeking to explore beyond, the Museum of Ancient Eleftherna reveals the mysteries of ancient civilizations.
Rethymno Beach and nearby Koumbes and Platanes Beach provide sun-drenched sands just moments away, perfect for basking in the Cretan sun or diving into crystal-clear waters.
With Chania and Heraklion airports within easy reach, Casa dei Delfini is not just a retreat but a launchpad for exploring the enchanting island of Crete, where every corner is steeped in history and every view is a canvas.