“Serene place, breathtaking views” | Oct 2015 | UK

The views from our balcony here were the most stunning of our whole stay in Crete – I frequently found myself on the balcony just staring at the sky and the water. Very simple, basic accommodation and the unique setting adds to the sense of ‘escape’. Owners/managers were extremely nice, as were other guests, some of whom had been coming for years, and the art cafe and book exchange was a lovely place to spend some time, with delicious food (especially the smoothies with real Greek yoghurt ice cream – heavenly!) We also loved our massages (book in advance, approx 50 euros), which were extremely professional and experienced. Kolokytha beach nearby (5 min drive/10 min walk) is small but beautiful, great for snorkelling first thing or late afternoon (midday boats drop off there so too busy).

As a note, the villas are totally solar powered, which I think is great but just be aware it’s better to use electricity 9am-6pm (I felt a bit guilty if I had to charge phone or dry hair outside these times!) The shower worked more through gravity than pressure and only the bare necessities are provided (towels and soap) which is totally fine, but having stayed in other hotels prior to this we’d got used to free refreshments, water, breakfast, toiletries, robes and slippers etc. and we had to go out to stock up and the local supermarket when we just wanted to relax and settle in. If visiting again (which we hope to!) we will bring a few bits with us.

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