AMENITIES:
As this is our home, not just a holiday let, we have variety of board games and a well stocked reference library with up to date guides and maps as well as numerous novels to read as you lounge by the pool. There is a giant chess set for use in or out, a stock of DVDs for both kids and adults and a Sony Playstation2 with a wide variety of games if you tire of watching the 40' LCD TV or listening to the hi-fi (with MP3 cable) and its stock of CD's. For star-gazing at night from the roof terrace, or for just watching the ferries on Souda bay, there is a telescope provided. Outside, there is the children section adjoining the main pool, with roman steps from the covered terrace, and lots of sun-loungers, hardwood chairs and tables for al-fresco dining as well as plenty of patio areas to sunbathe, or shady areas for when the sun gets just too hot. There's even an electric pump for your lilo!
Please note - children must be supervised at all times when using pool. For your safety no diving.
LOCATION:
The villa is set on a rise above the village, on a level site, single storey. The extensive gravel drive provides ample parking and turning space for up to 3 cars, & easy wheelchair access into the property. There are beautifully planted exotic gardens to all sides of the villa, a cool shady area with wisteria, iris,callas, oleanders & oranges to the rear, with roses, hibiscus, lavenders & geraniums to the front and sides - Crete's climate guaranteeing all year round colour. We also own the land to the South of the villa ensuring this remains virgin meadow with many endemic species. To the North of the villa is also open phyrgana bright in spring with cerise gladioli, wild lupins and bright yellow Jerusalem sage. There are 4 detached houses set back on the hillside behind the villa, behind their own stone walls & ensuring our pool & terrace areas enjoy complete privacy. Children can play safely (basketball hoop, giant chess etc provided) as the villa is fully enclosed all around.
SURROUNDING AREA:
Villa Mia is situated on the outskirts of the traditional Cretan village of Gavalohori, renowned for retaining its charm and handicrafts including lace making, tapestry, honey and olive oil. There is a fantastic bakery a few minutes walk towards the village, with 2 small shops, 3 tavernas and a delightful cafe bar (English spoken) all within easy reach on foot. Further afield the family resorts of Almerida and Kalives are within a few minutes drive, with the Venetian harbour of Chania about 30 minutes away, Rethymnon about 45 minutes in the other direction. Deserted coves and gently shelving sandy beaches make the villa perfect for a holiday by the sea, yet a cool mountain breeze always ensures comfort. Horse Riding is available at Georgioupolis (20 minutes) and water sports (wind surfers, catamarans and sea kayaks) are for hire on the shore at Almerida just 7 minutes drive away.
Further afield are numerous Roman and Minoan sites - such as the world-famous Knossos, of Minotaur fame.
Other Activities:
eating out, wild flower walks, snorkelling, safe sandy beaches, sunset watching!
Learn more about this vacation rental at the owner's website:
