Scalani Hills Residences

Welcome to Scalani Hills

Scalani Hills Residences is a collection of three accommodation suites within the Boutari Winery, situated close to the picturesque village of Skalani in Crete. The three luxurious residences have been sensitively renovated to harmonize with the surrounding area. They all enjoy beautiful views of the Fantaxometocho Estate featuring seven hectares of vineyards and olive trees.

Set in the Archanes wine region with the important archaeological site of Knossos under 5km away, Scalani Hills Residences offers a unique experience amid classical antiquity and viticulture for a truly exclusive getaway or celebration.

Guest accommodation comprises three independent residences within the former estate cottage. Each is named after local grape varieties: Kotsifali, Malvasia & Liatiko. The cottage has been completely renovated with stylish, luxurious residences that all feature modern comforts and amenities. A large hall is also available for private dining, celebration events and corporate meetings.

The Experience

With three luxurious residences configured as suites, the cottage has been a feature of the estate for centuries. A previous owner attempted to dispel pirates from the area with myths of ghosts. This legend adds to the considerable charm and history of the property which is totally private and can accommodate three separate couples or a group of six people. Private terraces give guests the opportunity to unwind amidst the spectacular views of this estate. Each dwelling is named after a grape varietal and wine-tasting is included as part of each stay for all guests to make the experience of Scalani Hills and the Boutari winery estate truly unique.

Each morning, a delicious breakfast of local Cretan delicacies is prepared for you by the dedicated kitchen team, all home-made, and with further fresh snacks available throughout the day. Particular items on offer include grape jams and must biscuits. Dinner can also be arranged in advance, drawing on local cuisine, regional specialities, and of course wine – all prepared in accordance with your own tastes and preferences, and naturally paired with the renowned Boutari wines of the estate.

The Estate

Scalani Hills Residences at the Boutari Winery combine the experience of a majestic vineyard with tranquil relaxation and hospitality. Located on the way to Myrtia (birthplace of famous Greek author Nikos Kazantzakis), and a short distance from the ancient city of Heraklion, the Boutari Winery is an amazing centre of regional wine-making with a number of native and foreign grape varieties in evidence.

Wine Tasting

The vineyard includes the red varieties Kotsifali, Mantilari, Syrah and the white varieties Chardonnay, Malvasia Aromatica and Moschato Spinas, among others. All wine tastings give the opportunity to indulge in the art of wine tasting with experts on hand to guide you through our limited edition wines produced only on the estate. The tasting includes the dry wines Fantaxometocho (white) and Skalani (red) and the sweet wines Moschato Spinas and Iouliatiko. Should guests wish, additional wines from all over Greece can also be included and arranged via guest reception at an additional fee.

The Winery

The new, Boutari Winery in Crete was completed in early 2004 and is one of the best-equipped, state of the art wineries in Europe. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the cellar, the production area, and the rest of the estate and they can enjoy the impressive multimedia show which has gained major awards at international competitions.

Location

The Boutari Winery in Crete is built outside Skalani village, on the Fantaxometocho Estate. It is located a few kilometers outside the centre of Heraklion city, close to the archaeological site of Knossos, and is the jewel of the viticultural VQPRD zone of Archanes. The planting of the southernmost privately-owned Boutari vineyards began in 1990. References in bibliographies confirm the close relations of the region with viticulture and the production of wine in antiquity. It is worth noting that the discovery of the first grape press in the Vathypetro area, dates back to 1600 B.C.

Identity

The main objective of the Boutari company was to set the foundations for the further promotion of Cretan wine worldwide, through the production of high quality wines. In a region that was famous for its ecosystem and its tradition in viticulture, the company managed to enhance the potential of local varieties and made Cretan vineyards known to the broader public, through major distinctions. At an altitude ranging between 170 and 215 metres, on a 7-hectare plot, the privately-owned Boutari vineyard is cultivated based on the principles of organic farming, hosting various Greek and –international varieties. The density of the planting is 3300 plants/hectare.

Thanks to the particularly well-studied choice of location, on the northern side of the hill, the vineyard is protected from the "livas", the hot summer wind from the south, and benefits from the cool "meltemia" winds of the Cretan sea. The soil type is clay, limestone, with good drainage. The vineyard includes the red varieties Kotsifali, Mantilari, Syrah and the white varieties Chardonnay, Malvasia Aromatica and Moschato Spinas, among others.

Guided Tours

Visitors can enjoy a tour of the cellar, the production area, and the rest of the estate. Its impressive multimedia show has gained major awards at international competitions, and offers a unique journey back in time to the history of Crete. A visit to the wine-tasting hall is definitely worthwhile, to enjoy the wines of the Estate, including the experimental ones, accompanied by dishes of the renowned cuisine of Crete. For further details please contact us

Wine Tasting Courses

The resident Boutari oenologist offers a basic course on wine tasting, during which visitors can explore this mystical art through all the senses and learn the historic secrets associated with wine and its production.

Cretan Cuisine Courses

Mrs Maria Konstantaki, the estate cook and wife of viticulturist Giannis, offers bespoke courses on Cretan cuisine to small groups. Using local ingredients and special recipes, this is a treat for anyone interested in cuisine and gastronomy. For further details please contact us

Business Events & Groups

Wine tasting events can be organized for large parties or corporate groups. Space is also available for full-scale corporate events and private celebrations such as weddings, baptisms or parties. Overlooking the beautiful vineyard, the restaurant space is an ideal place to enjoy a meal with specially selected estate wines.

Location of Scalani Hills Boutari Winery & Residences

Upon approaching the picturesque village of Skalani, take the road signposted on the road towards Myrtia. Follow this for 1 km and the Boutari Estate with the Scalani Hills Residences will soon come into view on the right-hand side. The entrance is on the right, just after the flags.

The Boutari Winery in Crete is built outside Skalani village, on the Fantaxometocho Estate. It is located a few kilometers outside the centre of Heraklion city, close to the archaeological site of Knossos, and is the jewel of the viticultural VQPRD zone of Archanes. The planting of the southernmost privately-owned Boutari vineyards began in 1990. References in bibliographies confirm the close relations of the region with viticulture and the production of wine in antiquity. It is worth noting that the discovery of the first grape press in the Vathypetro area, dates back to 1600 B.C.