Located in the westernmost side of Crete, the villa has incredible views stretching across the Gramvousa Peninsula and Kissamos Bay. The area is peaceful and unspoilt, perfect for taking a breather from modern life. Dotted with mountain villages and sprinkled with island charm, the villa is just 2km from the nearest beach and surrounded by lush greenery.
Tucked away from the hustle and bustle yet easily accessible from the amenities of Western Crete, this villa is the best of both worlds. Kissamos town is just 2km away, while the regional capital city of Chania is less than an hour drive from the villa. Crete itself is the largest island in Greece, so there's plenty to see and do here.
The mountains soar above the curves of rugged shoreline - there are many natural beaches that have a relaxed atmosphere and remote feel. From the Gramvousa Peninsula, you can see the ancient town of Agnion across the swirling blue and green waters, as jagged rocks rise up from the Mediterranean Sea. The most famous beach in the area is heavenly Balos, with powdery white sand and glittering turquoise water, reached by a short ferry from Kissamos town or a hike from Kaliviani.
Edgy Kissamos town boasts Roman ruins to explore, including an aqueduct, ancient baths, graves and old mansions with mosaic floors. The town is also known as Kastelli, because it has crumbling ruins of a formerly glorious 16th century Venetian castle. Once guarded by fortification walls, the castle was attacked during World War II, but what remains is still fascinating to explore. Kissamos is also a great jumping-off point to visit the islands of Antikythera and Kythera.
The 13th-century fort of Rastelli was built by a Genoese pirate called Henry Pescatore, in the shape of an asymmetrical pentagon.
Chania city is picturesque and vibrant, with its harbour that dates back to the Venetian era of Crete. Here, there is a charming 16th-century lighthouse that has Turkish, Egyptian and Ottoman influences - it was originally built to protect the harbour, but it has also served as a minaret. There is a famous Nautical Museum with plenty of naval artefacts and model ships, but it also covers a history of Crete.
Medieval, winding streets make up the centre, while riverfront restaurants are perfect for soaking up the views and enjoy a bite of local cuisine. Crete is famous for its distinguished food that differs from mainland Greece, particularly fragrant olive oil and local goat and sheep cheese. A tasty dish to try is Dakos, similar to meze or a bruschetta, consisting of barley rusks topped with diced tomatoes and mizithra cheese. Kaltsounia - cheese pies made in the shape of cups and drizzled with local honey - are also wildly popular. The best winery on Crete is considered to be Mandusakis, where you can visit and sample local wines.
Another famous hike in the area is the Samaria, the longest gorge in Europe. A staggering 16km long, the trail passes through the White Mountains, an abandoned village and seaside hamlets. Reward yourself with a swim in the refreshing sea at the end!
