No pets allowed Suitable for children Smokers welcome Self-catering
Home description
Within walking distance of Vamos and a couple of delicious tavernas offering fresh organic Cretan dishes, Villa Stathis boasts a great location: a place where one can discover the true Crete situated on the doorstep of the magnificent White mountains.
This 100 year old stone house has been carefully renovated to create a stylish home combining traditional Cretan features with modern comforts. The interiors are cool and spacious with two en-suite bedrooms, and a raised galleried bedroom overlooks the lounge.
The sandy beaches of Kalives and Almeritha are just 10 minutes away by car and for those seeking a little more sophistication, beautiful Chania is just 45 minutes away
Villa Stathis with private pool
Living room
Double bedroom
Twin bedroom
To see more photos please visit http://www.holidaylettings.co.uk/21763
The Crete region
The scents and colours of Crete continue to bring travellers back year after year. Hibiscus, oleander and jasmine; terracotta, ochre and red, sea in every shade of blue, white snow on the mountains in May, blossom in the orchards in spring.
Half way between mainland Greece and Africa, Crete has one of the most ancient histories in the world and some of the most fascinating wildlife in Europe. But Crete is the largest of Greek islands, almost a small country in itself: from the dramatic green gorges of the Western Coast to the rugged dry landscapes of the far east. My mother was born in Heraklion, a city best known for its proximity home to the mysterious and extensive ruined palace of Knossos. The wonderful Heraklion museum contains potteries and other artefacts dating back more than 3000 years.
In the dramatic white mountains of the west many villages follow a traditional life. Here you will witness a proud people, where women bake bread the old way with their traditional oven and old men sip ouzo in the local cafeteria and argue amongst each other – usually over politics.
A drive or walk through these mountains provides the traveller with the most breathtaking views and the possibility to explore the island’s dramatic gorges: wonderfully wild places and the habitat of eagles and wild goats. Samaria gorge is the longest ravine in Europe and it takes at least five hours trekking to reach the Libyan sea.
Crete has only been a part of modern Greece since 1913, you have to go back to classical times before you can find the previous union. Since then Crete has been fought over by numerous invaders, from the Romans, Byzantines and Venetians to the Turks. This rich history is reflected in the island’s architecture, none more so than the towns of Chania and Rethymnon, with their narrow alleyways and traditional wooden Ottoman balconies. The Turkish Mosque still stands on the waterfront in Chania surrounded by the tall, elegant Venetian houses.
The countryside has its wealth of unexpected history too. Small white-washed churches can be seen perched on seemingly impregnable cliffs and the ruins of Venetian and Turkish castles continue to surprise travellers.
Chania / Vamos area
Chania is often considered by many to be the most beautiful city not just in Crete, but the whole of Greece. The harbour front is simply breathtaking with its array of Venetian boat houses, cafés and restaurants that line the waterfront. Behind this the magnificent White Mountains rise like a protective barrier
In the summer evenings, locals and tourists alike can be seen going for a stroll and taking in the atmosphere. Behind the harbour, one can easily get lost in the cool, quiet alleyways and tall Venetian houses. Chania is a treat, from the carved Venetian doorways in Lithinon Street and the Ottoman style houses with the wooded balconies that overhang the street in the old Splantzia quarter to some of the oldest churches to be found on the island. A few days can be spent exploring and savouring the charm of this stunning town.
Chania is also the gateway to some superb scenery too. None more so then the magnificent White Mountains with her traditional villages and dramatic gorges. Some of the best beaches in Crete can be found nearby. From the calm family orientated beaches around Kalives, to the stunning beaches of Elafonisi, Falasarna and Gramvousa. For those willing to go further, then south-west Crete is an adventurer’s dream. Here you will find the quintessential little Greek fishing village of 'Loutro' only accessible by boat from Hora Sfakia.
There are still traditional old villages in inland Crete. In Vamos the renovation of the oldest Venetian houses has enhanced the atmospheric feel of the town. In nearby Douliana a stroll through the narrow lanes is akin to stepping back in time.
Crete offers something for everyone from lovers of history to serious walkers and finally to sun worshippers.
How to get there
During the summer Gatwick and Manchester airports fly into Chania airport. From there it is a 45 minute drive to Vamos.
Most regional UK airports arrive into Heraklion in Eastern Crete. From there it is a 1 hour and 30 minute drive to Vamos.
The car hire company we use is Aptera Travel based in Chania.
Nearest Travel Links
Airport:
Chania: 25 km
Ferry:
Souda: 20 km
Activities near Chania
Sports: Watersports Fishing
Great for: Walking holidays Rural / countryside retreats Beach or lakeside relaxation Cycling holidays
Bedrooms (3), Bathrooms (2), En suite (2), Shower rooms (1)
Furniture:
Single beds (4), Double beds (1), Dining seating for 6, Lounge seating for 6, Sleeps maximum of 6
Other:
Linen and towels provided. Highchair available.
Outdoors:
Balcony / Terrace, Private outdoor pool (unheated), Private garden, BBQ
Access:
Secure parking
Further details indoors: 3 bedrooms. 2 storey villa. Ground floor: Large open plan kitchen/dining room/living room area with satellite TV, fire place and CD Player. Fully equipped kitchen with fridge/freezer, oven, hob, microwave, dishwasher and washing machine. Downstairs shower room.
Stairs from dining area lead to galleried twin bedroom with fans. Through hallway leads to air-conditioned double bedroom with en suite bathroom and stairs from hallway lead to air-conditioned twin bedroom with en suite shower room and galleried study area. (Please note Air-conditioning is charged at £25 per week).
Further details outdoors: The open-plan lounge and kitchen area leads out to large terrace by a private pool surrounded by olive groves; the perfect spot to while away the day, where the only sounds you are likely to hear is the buzz of the cicadas and possibly a passing shepherd. To the rear of Stathis, a pretty courtyard with a sheltered dining area is an excellent spot for an evening’s barbecue.
Back courtyard with dining table/sitting area and barbecue.