Coronavirus still dominates the news and doubtless your holiday thinking.  But the world is gradually opening up again, with more options to go abroad.  And with the constraints of lockdown and the stresses the pandemic is causing, a relaxing holiday abroad may be just the thing you need! So why not a holiday in Crete during the Coronavirus pandemic?

We are proud of Greece and the way the Greeks and their Government reacted to the pandemic.  An early and nearly total lockdown – we had to apply for a permit to go out of the house! – and very good adherence to the rules. This has given Greece some of the lowest infection rates in Europe.  The islands were isolated even from the mainland early on, so Crete has been even better protected with only a handful of infections, all localised. 

Greece is gradually opening up. From 1 July there will be international flights from over 20 countries to the airports at Chania and Iraklion.  Panokosmos will be open for business too!

Benefits of Panokosmos

We are perfectly placed for you to have a holiday secluded from the crowds.  You will be able to control the amount of contact that you have with other tourists and locals.  To relax, chill out and recharge there is no better place. 

There are spectacular views, large and varied gardens with plenty of shady spots. There’s and a huge swimming pool with views of the mountains in complete isolation.  Yet we are only 35 mins drive from Chania, and the beaches, shops and tavernas in Kalyves 12 km distant.

We have an offer with breakfasts included, and we love to prepare dinners, light meals and mezzes. These we serve with a wide range of excellent Cretan wines (all by the glass or bottle, depending on your thirst!). 

When you want to venture “off the hill” we can suggest tavernas where the owners are conscientious and reliable in their Covid procedures, But also where the food is great and the atmosphere lovely!  We have lots of ideas about drives in the country and walks where you won’t meet another soul. 

You will need a hire car which we can organise for you.  Our suppliers will be disinfecting each car between hirers, following the regulations, to ensure your safety.

Looking after your Safety

We will be following the protocols for Greek hotels as they apply to us. Extra cleaning and disinfecting, wearing masks and gloves, offering hand sanitizer, masks and gloves if you need them.

Our swimming pool is for your exclusive use, so there won’t be any need to space the sun beds, or limit the number of swimmers.

We will be ensuring that the apartment is vacant for at least 24h between guests according to the protocol.  This year we are limited to single bookings, so you will be the only guests.  So there are no issues about table spacing and positioning, though our eating locations are outside, weather permitting. 

And we don’t have menus, so there won’t be any need to dispose or disinfect them!  Our Covid referral hospital is in Chania, about 35 min away. Locally we have contacts and relationships with Doctors and medical facilities in Kalyves, our local town.

Out and About

Social distancing will be in operation at museums and archaeological sites, tavernas and restaurants and in shops.  In consequence there may be some queuing, but many establishments will be operating with longer opening hours, and there will be less tourists and locals about.  Masks are mandatory on public transport and in shops.

And after being out you will be able to return to the oasis of calm and relaxation at Panokosmos, to leisurely drinks and meals and the peace and tranquillity of the Cretan countryside.

Whether or not you come for a holiday in Crete during the Coronavirus pandemic, do take a look at our blogs. These show things to do in Crete, whether it be walking a gorge, hiking in the foothills of the White Mountains, or taking a drive to see the sites.  Chania is a great town to visit, particularly to go to the street markets, and of course you’ll want to get the benefits of the Cretan diet – be it the yoghurt and cheese, or the olive oil.

And for the very best experience, come stay with us at Panokosmos! We have a special deal this year to make it even more attractive – get in touch or take a look at our website.