“Can’t wait to visit again” | Jul 2019 | UK

Thank you to Leda and Costa for making our stay at EIV just wonderful. My partner Mark and I spent 10 perfect days here in July. We arrived tired after a very early morning flight and were very grateful that Leda and Costa had thought to leave a place of fresh fruit and drinks in our kitchen… this was really thoughtful and much appreciated.

We stayed in Villa 8, a 1 bed villa with a balcony overlooking the sea and access to loungers on the terrace in front. The accommodation was large enough for Mark and I to be comfortable for 10 days. Decorated in a traditional Cretan style with some lovely, thoughtful touches, the EIV gives a cool, laid back and artsy vibe.

We came away with the intention of switching off and relaxing and EIV allowed us to do just that. We sometimes bumped into other guests on the grounds or in the cafe area, but often we didn’t see or hear another soul for days: bliss!

The complex houses a really lovely cafe, open until 5, serving a selection of breakfasts, homemade cake, smoothies etc, but not lunch. You’re made feel welcome to use the cafe area almost like an extension of your Villa: there are books, comfy chairs and lovely views of the sea looking towards Elounda.

The cafe doubles as a gift shop with a good selection of quality handmade or thoughtful gifts, different to what you might see in the Elounda gift shops.

Leda is an exceptional artist, her studio is based in the complex and she would be very happy to show you her work on request, which is also for sale. Leda’s practice is a combination of drawing, mixed media work and 3D.

EIV’s location is just stunning. Our villa was 30 seconds from a small, quiet beach, prefect for a dip, and close to several other excellent beaches within walking distance on the peninsula. We love snorkelling and prefer to stay away from the crowds so EIV is perfect, however, you are only a 10 minute walk from the excellent Kanali restaurant (next to the canal) and a further 10/15mins walk you reach Elounda‘s many restaurants and bars. Our favourites were MoonSpinners and Ergospasio, built in an old carob factory.

We hired a car for three days which I would recommend to visit sites in the area. We particularly enjoyed Mochlos, exploring the south coast, and the excellent Archeological Museum in Heraklion, and Leda and Costa were really helpful with giving advice about where to visit.

We would really recommend EIV to our freinds and look forward to returning in the future.