The beachfront Minos Mare Hotel is located in the resort area of Platanes, three miles east of the city park, and approximately 50 miles from Heraklion Airport. Shops, bars, restaurants, and the bus stop are about 300 yards from the hotel. The hotel is about an 11-hour ferryboat ride from Athens. Rethymno is the birthplace of Xenios Dias (Zeus), the god of hospitality. Hotel amenities include the three swimming pools, swim-up bar, giant chessboard, mini-market, jeweler's shop, sauna, gym, buffet restaurant, and cocktail lounge. There is a daily animation program with daytime activities and evening entertainment, such as live shows. All rooms feature private bathrooms, hairdryer, balconies, air-conditioning, clock radios, minibars, and TVs.