I think my tastes run more rustic than the other reviewers, in that I did not at all like Spilli as a town. The first thing is saw as i got out of my car was a cat whose tail looked like it had been freshly cut off. Then after checking in with the LOVELY Heracles, I went for a walk and for the only time in two weeks in Crete felt vibed out by some locals. I then saw a group of teenage boys bundling into a car who looked like they were up to no good. All highly subjective , i realize.

The other thing is i found it too touristy for my taste, even after the tour buses leave there are still all the shops selling meaningless trinkets and stuff. For the hiking, i preferred to get further up in to the mountains, but i imagine had i stayed longer, and were it spring time, Mr. H. could be a good resource.

Finally, the rooms are close to the main road, so you hear the vehicles. If you are looking for total mountain quiet, this is not the place.

Having said all that, the rooms were lovely spic and span and Mr. H was very nice, though he twice accidently forget to give me the Rough Guide discount, so if you want it remind him when you are paying. As i said in a prev post, the first CAFE on the right, entering town, that also sells baklava and biscuits, makes the most bang up Cappucino and Espresso and Greek coffee in Crete. Guy has a fancy german machina he knows how to use. And the bank manager of the bank on the east side of the road grew up in the states so he speaks English if you need that.

The rooms are clean and spacious, equipped with a fridge (and TV if you want one!)
Heracles is a lovely host. The village was lovely for an evening, with a few bars and tavernas, with a friendly laid back atmosphere. Highly recommended.

This is a delightful hotel in an incredible area of Crete. Speli is a lovely small town on the edge of the Amari Valley. The owner , Heracles, is a caring and warm man who knows the greatest bird and flower hikes in the area. He brings out a map at breakfast and show shows us the way. We couldn't find the way through a fence, came back, and he immediately got in his car to show us! The rest of the staff were delightful and helpful. Excellent place to stay in Crete.