Villa Rethymno

Villa Rethymno is located in the quiet village of Sfakaki, approximately a fifteen-minute drive from the city of Rethymno. The village offers a range of local amenities, including shops, a bakery, tavernas, cafes, bars, and restaurants. The nearby beach features a long stretch of sand with sun loungers and parasols available. The area is also a habitat for sea turtles, which may occasionally be seen. Visitors can view the sunset from the beach or the property's balcony, with views over the sea. The surrounding area is predominantly countryside, with additional beaches in close proximity.

Rethymno is a city known for its historic architecture, active port, and variety of tourist services. The Old Town is accessible through streets lined with shops and dining options, and contains numerous historical structures. Despite its popularity with visitors, the city retains elements of its traditional Greek character. Notable landmarks include the Venetian Fortezza, a prominent citadel located above the shoreline, and nearby pine-covered areas with chapels and churches. The city’s port area is a central hub for restaurants, bars, and boat excursions.

Inland from Sfakaki, the 16th-century Arkadi Monastery is situated on a plateau and features Baroque, Renaissance, and Roman design influences. It is dedicated to the Transfiguration of the Saviour and Saints Constantine and Helen. Other nearby religious sites include the Monasteries of Preveli and Arsaniou. The Ideon Cave, on the eastern side of Mount Ida, is of mythological interest as the site where Zeus was said to have been raised.

Plakias, a coastal resort further south, is accessible via the Kourtaliotiko Gorge. The village, once a fishing settlement, now offers a selection of tavernas, restaurants, and bars beside its bay with clear blue waters.

The Palace of Knossos, associated with Minoan mythology, is another key historical site. According to legend, it housed a labyrinth created by Daedalus for King Minos, which contained the mythical Minotaur. Theseus, aided by Ariadne, is said to have defeated the creature. The palace served as a major religious centre during the Minoan era. Excavated and partially restored by Sir Arthur Evans, Knossos remains one of Greece’s most significant archaeological locations.

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On the northern coast of Crete, Rethymno is a beautifully preserved medieval town in Greece with such a rich heritage and exquisite Venetian mansions.

The old town is simply enchanting. Fall in love as you wander along flower-filled lanes with architecture from the Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman Empire eras. Shop to your heart’s delight admiring local crafts, jewellery, clothes and souvenirs, then cool off with a drink in a café on a pretty square lined with olive trees.

Take time to explore the Venetian fortress overlooking the old town, admire the 17th century Rimondi fountain with its flowing water, walk up to the 19th century lighthouse, then stroll along the Venetian harbourfront where seafood specialities and other Cretan dishes are served in such a picturesque setting.    

The 12km long blue-flagged city beach is a hive of activity in the summer months with watersports, sun beds, parasols, beachside bars and restaurants. Discover more remote shores a short drive from Rethymno such as Petres and Kamari Beach, both much-loved by keen snorkellers, or the iconic small bay at Spilies Beach with turquoise coloured sea.  

Embrace the authenticity of Sfakaki, a charming seaside village only 10km from Rethymno with an idyllic beach that sometimes attracts loggerhead turtles in the summer. Pass eucalyptus trees, olive trees and wild herbs until you reach Monastery of Saint George (Arsaniou) for a peaceful experience overlooking the sea. Further south, the Arkadi Gorge is in an incredible area for hiking, ending at the stunning Monastery of Arkadi.

Meanwhile, appreciate more wild landscapes a short distance from Rethymno as well as ancient Cretan villages. Climb the pathways of the incredible Melidoni Cave, especially welcome in the heat of the summer, or venture to Mili Gorge with its ancient mills, little waterfalls and rare flora. The old village of Margarites is famed for its Byzantine churches, Venetian houses and, since the Ottoman empire, pottery production – it makes a lovely day out only half an hour from town life in Rethymno.