On the bookAvdou 700 05, GreeceHotel

Country HotelVelani

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.

Ceremony
20 seated
Reception
150 seated
Nearest airport
HER · 75 minutes
Price range
$$$
Rating
4.7 /5 · 268

Country Hotel Velani is a hotel destination wedding venue in Avdou 700 05, Greece, hosting 20 to 150 guests in the $$$ price range, reached from Nikos Kazantzakis Airport (HER), 75 minutes.

01 · In a sentence

Country Hotel Velani in Avdou 700 05.

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.

We only had dinner here, but it was amazing. Super friendly and funny host, excellent food and stunning views on the mountains and the valley. A bit tricky to get here as the road up here isn't maintained but it is so well worth the visit!

Sven Crabbé
02 · What sets it apart

4 notes, from the desk.

Note 01

Originally constructed in 1920 as a private stone residence; restored and reopened as hotel in 2008

Note 02

15 uniquely decorated guest rooms accommodating up to 150 wedding guests

Note 03

Located in Avdou, a working agricultural village 550 meters above sea level

Note 04

On-site taverna serving traditional Cretan cuisine with locally sourced ingredients

04 · Hold a date

Check availability.

Select a date
May 2026
Pick a date

Choose a day from the calendar.

We hold dates in pencil. A first note comes back within two business days.

05 · A sample weekend

How the weekend usually runs.

Yours will be different — nothing below is required. Every planning begins with the three meals you most want to eat, and builds outward.

Friday · day 01
  • Afternoon/EveningGuest arrival; check-in and welcome dinner at taverna
Saturday · day 02
  • 10:00 AMCeremony setup on grounds
  • 5:00 PMCeremony begins
  • 6:00 PMCocktail hour in courtyard
  • 7:30 PMReception and dinner service
Sunday · day 03
  • 10:00 AMFarewell breakfast; guest departure
06 · Practical

Things worth knowing.

Getting there

HER · 75 minutes

Guests fly into Nikos Kazantzakis Airport. The desk arranges every transfer.

Typical total

€4,500-8,000

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.

Ceremony fee

€400-800

A one-time licence and setup fee, paid to the venue.

Reception

€45-75 / head

A seated dinner with wine and service, by headcount.

Room rate

€90-140 / night

A standard room in the wedding window. Group rates on request.

Direct line

2897 051079

Answered by the venue in local hours. The desk picks up otherwise.

07 · Questions

Asked along the way.

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.

Last updated
Begin at Country Hotel Velani

Hold dates at Country Hotel Velani.

A note to the desk with a rough season and guest count. We hold dates in pencil for three weeks before confirmation. A reply comes within two business days, from a person by name.