Country Hotel Velani — destination wedding venue in Avdou 700 05, Greece
Hotel

Country Hotel Velani

Avdou 700 05, Greece, Greece20150 guests$$$
Type:Hotel
Capacity:20150 guests
Budget:$$$
Airport:Nikos Kazantzakis Airport (HER), 75 minutes

Country Hotel Velani occupies a restored 1920s stone structure in the Cretan village of Avdou, originally built as a traditional family residence before its thoughtful conversion into a boutique hotel. The building retains its original architectural character while offering contemporary hospitality across 15 individually designed rooms. Guests celebrate amid authentic Cretan countryside, with views extending across olive groves toward the White Mountains.

Highlights

  • Originally constructed in 1920 as a private stone residence; restored and reopened as hotel in 2008
  • 15 uniquely decorated guest rooms accommodating up to 150 wedding guests
  • Located in Avdou, a working agricultural village 550 meters above sea level
  • On-site taverna serving traditional Cretan cuisine with locally sourced ingredients
  • 4.7/5 Google rating from 200+ verified guest reviews

Quick facts

Capacity20150 guests
Venue typeHotel
Price range$$$
LocationGreece
Nearest airportHER

Plan your wedding at Country Hotel Velani

Getting there

Nikos Kazantzakis Airport (HER)

75 minutes to venue

Private Car Transfer

€80-120 per vehicle

75 minutes · Arranged through hotel; direct route via E75 highway to Avdou

Rental Car

€40-60 per day rental

75 minutes · Self-drive via highway from Heraklion; parking available at hotel

Public Bus

€8-12 per person

120 minutes · Regional KTEL bus service from Heraklion to Avdou village center, 10-minute walk to hotel

Cost estimate

Ceremony / venue fee

€400-800 (outdoor grounds or indoor space)

Reception (per guest)

€45-75 (Cretan menu, beverages, service)

Accommodation (per night)

€90-140 per room (wedding guest rates available)

Estimated total

€4,500-8,000 for 50-75 guests with 2-night package

Pricing subject to season and specific date. Summer months (June-September) command higher rates. Customized menus and wine pairings available. Early booking discount of 10% typically offered for events booked 6+ months in advance.

Sample wedding weekend

Friday

Afternoon/EveningGuest arrival; check-in and welcome dinner at taverna

Saturday

10:00 AMCeremony setup on grounds
5:00 PMCeremony begins
6:00 PMCocktail hour in courtyard
7:30 PMReception and dinner service

Sunday

10:00 AMFarewell breakfast; guest departure

This is a sample itinerary. Your wedding weekend can be fully customized.

Frequently asked questions

What year was the building originally constructed?
The hotel building dates to 1920 and operated as a family home before its restoration and conversion to a hotel property.
How many guests can the venue accommodate?
The hotel can host ceremonies and receptions for 20-150 guests across its grounds and indoor spaces.
Are accommodations available for wedding guests?
Yes, 15 guest rooms are available on-site, with discounted wedding guest rates typically offered.
What dining options are included?
The property features an on-site taverna specializing in traditional Cretan dishes prepared from local ingredients.
What is the nearest airport?
Nikos Kazantzakis Airport (HER) in Heraklion is approximately 60 kilometers away, roughly 75 minutes by car.

Your love story deserves a beautiful beginning

Join couples who are making their destination wedding effortless for every guest. Start building your wedding site in minutes.

Free to start · No credit card required