Villa Rodi

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Villa |3 bedrooms |Sleeps 6

Gavalohori in Chania

From £500 per week

1 night minimum stay

Changeover flexible

4.5 out of 5

5 reviews | Write a review

Key info  Swimming pool, beach or lakeside relaxation, air conditioning, balcony/terrace, car advised, private garden, no pets allowed

About the home

Villa Rodi (Greek for Pomegranate) is a modern well-equipped three-bedroomed villa with its own private pool. The villa is situated on the edge of and overlooking the ancient village of Gavalohori. Behind the villa is a woodland area with several footpaths to walk and enjoy. The villa is well suited for both families and adults alike looking for a private relaxing holiday. The villa is securely walled with its own private parking space and a mature garden containing several trees some of which provide shading near the pool. Gavalohori village is within a few minutes walk and has several tavernas, general stores and a bakery that makes the best bread in the world every morning!

The resort of Almyrida is a few minutes away by car or some 35 minutes walk. It has a beautiful large sandy bay with clear shallow waters that extend well into the bay making it very safe for young children. There are many tavernas in Almyrida with some larger supermarkets, wineries, general stores, jewellers, beach wear and bakers. There are many footpaths and forest tracks in the area for those who enjoy safe and easy walking.

The villa has been extensively furnished with traditional Cretan furniture to maintain the character of the local area. The entrance from the car parking area leads down sixteen steps to the villa's courtyard, past lavender bushes, jasmin, geraniums, lemon and pomegranate trees. The entrance door leads past a small bathroom and utility area into the spacious kitchen and open-plan dining and living areas. There are two sets of double doors leading onto the balcony, which commands a superb view of the village below, and further afield of the White Mountains, Souda and Almyrida Bays. It is an ideal setting for enjoying breakfast or an evening drink. The kitchen has every modern facility that you are likely to need. There is a staircase down to the three bedrooms, one double en-suite and two double bedrooms, plus a bathroom with shower and a storage alcove. All bedrooms have generous storage. The en-suite bedroom has a safe for your valuables. The two front bedrooms have steps leading down to the pool from the lower balcony. The pool illuminates at night for those who like an evening swim and there is a cool shower at the side of the pool where you can rinse-off after bathing. Sunbeds are provided for relaxing by the pool together with parasols to give shade in the heat of the day along with several conifers growing nearby.

Facilities

Further details indoors:
The large double room has its own en-suite shower room. The other two, twin-bedded rooms share a bathroom which has a shower over the bath. The cloakroom is just off the utility area and contains toilet and sink. This is really useful when you don't want to go to the bedroom bathrooms.
All three bedrooms have plenty of wardrobe space for storage and there is a recess in the landing which is convenient for storing your suitcases until you need them again. There is a safe in the wardrobe of the double room. Each bedroom has a chair, bedside tables with lamps, dressing table and stool and mirror, all made by local craftsmen in a traditional Cretan design. We respectfully remind you that smoking is not allowed in the villa at any time, for the comfort and safety of all our guests. Our English house-keeper will do a mid-week sheet and towel change during your stay. We provide all linen and towels apart from beach towels.

Further details outdoors:
The garden has many mature trees and plants such as lavender, jasmine, oleander and honeysuckle. The front garden has a pomegranate tree, from which the villa takes its name. October is the month to be there if you want to pick a pomegranate for breakfast! Mature trees offer shade near to the pool although of course we do provide sun-loungers and parasols. Near to the kitchen door is a small table with four chairs and a parasol, just right for morning coffee or a glass of wine in the cool of the evening. Outside the kitchen on the other side of the house is a large balcony with seating for six people under a pergola from where you can enjoy the views of the village, the White Mountains and the bay. Further along this balcony is a small sofa, useful for further 'view watching'. Next to the pool is a cool shower, not in a room, just under a trees, for cooling off or rinsing your hair. The pool is illuminated at night but the lights go off on a time-switch. There is a secure car-park, suitable for two small or one larger car. This is just off the road leading to the villa, then there are steps leading down to the house. The stairs have lights which are switched on at the top of the flight and can be turned off in the house. The house has outdoor lighting all the way round so that the garden can be enjoyed at all times. The pool is 7 metres by 4 metres and the shallow end is accessed by steps. We are obliged to remind guests that diving is not permitted at any time at that children using the pool should be supervised at all times. We know this is common sense but we are obliged by our insurance company to state this. We respectfully remind our guests that smoking is not allowed either in the villa or grounds. Our gardeners will try to maintain the garden while you are out so as not to disturb your privacy. David, our house manager also cleans the pool and will try to do this while you are out for the same reason.

Further details

There are many steps at the villa so it is not suitable for guests who use wheelchairs or those who find stairs difficult. Although many of our previous guests have enjoyed a family holiday at our villa.

The villa has a full EOT licence and fire certificate as issued by the Greek Tourist Board. However, the pool being private, is unattended at all times.

The house and pool are maintained by a house manager, who will deal with any needs that may arise to ensure that you have a relaxing and enjoyable stay whilst at the villa.

Conditions

A non-returnable deposit of 20% will be required at the time of booking with the balance to be paid 8 weeks before departure. Should you need to cancel your holiday we would do our best to re-let the period for which you have cancelled and, if successful, would return your deposit minus a small administration charge. We are happy to give 'early bird' and late-booking discounts, please enquire. We are also happy to let the villa during the winter months for a very modest rate of £150 per week with a minimum stay of two weeks and a further discount for more than three months.

Photos

 

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A visit to Chania is a must. Famous for its leather, jewellery and textiles.

 

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Perfect setting for a quiet relaxing holiday.

 

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Traditional entrance to the kitchen area.

The Crete region

Crete has beautiful unspoiled beaches, mountains and valleys. The White Mountains are so called because they are formed from limestone, though they do have snow on them in the winter, sometimes up to about March. The island has been invaded many times and influences of Romans, Phoenicians, Venetians and Moors are reflected in the architecture, especially in Chania, Rethymnon and Heraklion. The winters are damp and cool rather than freezing cold, although there has been snow twice since 1945! A visit to Chania is a must. The ancient harbour has many shops and tavernas all in beautiful settings. Good quality leather and jewellery are sold in markets and shops with 'special' prices' for you! Buildings bombed in 1944 now house tavernas sited in the cellars, open to the warm, night sky. You and your family will enjoy a ride in the traditional horse-drawn carriages to see the ruins of the Venetian Fort and the hidden gems of Chania.

The early part of the year is often wet but with many bright sunny days. Around the end of May the temperature rises, becoming increasingly hot in July and August when afternoons in the shade by the pool or on the beach are a popular pastime. The autumnal months are often mild and sunny with cooler evenings after dusk.

The Chania / Gavalohori area

A short walk from the villa leads to the ancient Venetian Wells, shaded by numerous olive trees. There are many tracks inviting easy walking around the area or further afield, say to Almyrida or Kalives. Footwear such as trainers are ideal for walking in all areas of Crete. The village of Gavalohori has a small museum with a reconstructed interior of a traditional Cretan cottage, and examples of locally made lace. You may still see lace being made by black-clad village ladies sitting in their doorways. There are also examples of stone quarrying and relics of Minoan pottery excavated nearby.

The Cretan people are very friendly and welcoming, most speak good English or know someone who does! They welcome children in all the tavernas and kafenions at any time. You will often see extended families eating out late at night. The village is only a few minutes away on foot and has several tavernas selling main meals and one Kafenion which serves light meals and snacks.

The local resort of Almyrida has a safe, shallow, sandy bay with a small shop hiring water sports equipment. Sunbeds and parasols are available for hire on the beaches. There are shops selling beach equipment, clothes, and supermarkets selling familiar traditional foods and everyday items. There are many tavernas in Almyrida offering an excellent range of traditional Cretan fish and meat dishes as well as some English and European dishes. During the summer months you can buy English newspapers in Almyrida. Kalives and Vamos, where there are also several banks, ATM's and petrol stations.

Each year there are regional festivals such as the Raki festival, Chestnut Carnivals and the 'No' Day parades in villages and cities around Crete.

At the villa you will find a selection of leaflets, maps and books giving ideas for places to visit both locally and further afield. These include walking the Samarian Gorge, visiting ruined palaces, lakes and markets. In Almyrida there is a tourist shop and a hotel where from either you can book coach trips if you fancy a change from driving.

How to get there

Villa Rodi What's nearby: Attractions Restaurants Click map icons for more information

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Most major airlines, such as Easyjet, Jet2, Monarch, Thomas Cook and Thomson, fly direct from the UK into Chania and Heraklion, usually on Tuesdays. The villa is approximately 40 minutes drive from Chania airport and approximately 90 minutes drive from Heraklion depending on traffic. It is also possible to fly to Athens and then get the ferry to Souda. This takes longer with an average ferry time of six to eight hours but can be cheaper. There are also flights from Athens and numerous European towns direct to Chania and Heraklion.

Local car hire companies are www.autoclub-rentals.gr and www.flisvos.com nearby in Kalives and Almyrida. They have a wide range of vehicles and will arrange for your car to be waiting for you at the airport. Average prices range from 150-200 euros per week including insurance. A company representative will be waiting for you at the airport and will complete the paperwork, give you the keys and take you to your car.

Activities near Chania

Reviews

Review: 1 to 3 of 5

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25 Sep 2011

“Fantastic - Exceeded all expectations” Beautiful villa situated on the hill above the quiet village of Gavalochori. Views of the village, mountains and Souda Bay in the distance. Easy 5 min walk into village with a few shops, bakery and... more

16 Sep 2011

“Exceeded all our expectations” The views from the villa are stunning. The villa is situated on the side of a hill and looks out over the valley so that you can see the White Mountains to the left and the sea to the right. We went in late April when the valley was lush with flowers; I'd definitely recommend this as a good time of the year to visit. As well as enjoying the views from the villa's two balconies (one which has a large dining table for you to eat outside), you can also see them from the pool. Inside, the villa is spacious and beautifully kept with everything you could ever need. All our expectations were exceeded and we will certainly be visiting again!

18 Aug 2011

“Fantastic villa, in great place with loads to do!” The villa is superp, spacious, comfortable and well equipped with fantastic panaoramic views of the white mountains and Souda bay. Kids (and adults) loved the pool and could have spent the whole week in it and around it. Positioned just on the edge of Gavalorchi village (which is quiet and unspoilt) you have everything you need, with excellent good value tavernas just 10 minutes walk away. Slightly further away there are some superb beaches and fantistic snorkelling coves. All in all, a fantastic holiday villa which I'm sure we will visit again

Review: 1 to 3 of 5

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Review: 4 to 5 of 5

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01 Jul 2011

“Fantastic villa and pool, spotless with great views” We have just returned from our 7th visit to Villa Rodi and once again we have had a fantastic holiday. Inside, the villa contains everything you will ever need for a luxurious stay and the outside... more

08 Jun 2011

“Wonderful villa & pool & superb location.. beautiful.. tranquil.” Our 4th stay at Villa Rodi & it remains our top location & best holiday ever. The villa has all the creature comforts needed with unobstructed views to the towering White Mountains in one direction &... more

Review: 4 to 5 of 5

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Guestbook for Villa Rodi

Fabulous views, wonderful food at the tavernas, when can we come back? There is a wide variety of places to eat, from the traditional Greek to burgers and chips. The pool is bliss with trees and parasols providing shade. Our children loved the inflatable toys provided.

The photographs do not do the villa or the area justice! We enjoyed our strolls to the best bread bakery in the world. The Venetian Wells are very interesting historically. The villa is well equipped, we found absolutely everything we needed.

The villa is fantastic, everything perfect and above our wildest expectations. A huge thanks.

The Cretans are so friendly and welcoming.

Your books at the villa gave us so many ideas for outings, we could not do them all so must return!

Everything was perfect at the villa, ever small detail of it, our stay there was perfect in every way.

Villa Rodi is a wonderful base for a holiday in Crete. The villa is spotless and has everything you may need. The rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated. On the upper floor a lovely big balcony off the kitchen will let you enjoy meals outside with the spectacular view of Sound Bay in front of you. The outside pool is in a beautiful paved courtyard surrounded by trees. The online photos don't do justice to this amazing place. The villa is so lovely that you could spend the whole holiday simply staying in there. The villa is just outside the beautiful and relaxed village of Gavalohori, where you will find food stores and some fantastic tavernas. The lovely beach of Almyrida in only 3 km away. Villa Rodi was out base-camp to explore all of Crete, from Heraklion to the western beaches to the south of the island. We would highly recommend this place and hope to be so lucky to be back ourselves in the future. Both the onsite manager and the owners will go to great lengths to make sure that your stay there will be a wonderful memory- it certainly was for us! M,P,G,A. 2011



We keep coming back to Rodi, our little patch of heaven. It was bliss to come back after our wanderings around the island each day. So useful that the housekeeper did some shopping for us before we arrived as it was quite late.

Our children loved the beach and the pool, trees near the pool give welcome shade as well as the parasols.

Rental prices

Prices for group size 6
Period	From	To	Weekly	Nightly rate		Minimum  stay
				Weekday	Weekend
July-August 2011	28 Jun 11	29 Aug 11	900£ 900	0-	0-	1 Week
Aug-Sept 2011	29 Aug 11	27 Sep 11	750£ 750	0-	0-	1 Week
Sept-Nov 2011	27 Sep 11	3 Nov 11	700£ 700	0-	0-	Flexible
Winter 2011/2012	3 Nov 11	1 Apr 12	500£ 500	0-	0-	1 Month
Spring 2012	1 Apr 12	1 May 12	700£ 700	0-	0-	Flexible
Spring 2012	1 May 12	29 May 12	800£ 800	0-	0-	Flexible
Summer 2012	29 May 12	26 Jun 12	900£ 900	0-	0-	Flexible
Summer 2012	26 Jun 12	4 Sep 12	1250£ 1250	0-	0-	Flexible
Autumn 2012	4 Sep 12	6 Nov 12	800£ 800	0-	0-	Flexible
Winter 2012/13	6 Nov 12	26 Mar 13	500£ 500	0-	0-	1 Month

NB: Prices may be subject to change at the advertiser's discretion.

We can accept payment by cheque or bank transfer in GBP or Euros. A refundable security charge of £150 will be required with the final balance payment. Charges shown are weekly from Tuesday to Tuesday although we do try to be flexible to fit in with flights on different days. Please enquire by phone or e-mail.

From November 2011 to beginning of April 2012 the charge will be £500 per calendar month, with guests paying their own utility bills. This amount is independent of the number of people staying at the villa, and is up to a maximum of six people at any one time. Their will be a minimum let of one month at this rate.

Availability

See below for next 9 months' availability - to see the next 24 months click here

Availability notes:

Available all year but during winter season for a minimum of one month. Great discounts for winter period.

Contact the owner

* Required fields Please check the following errors: First name * Last name * Email *   Did you mean ""? Yes / No Phone number Arrival date Departure date   Ignore calendar - enquire anway No. of adults No. of children Message * Email me special offers and holiday ideas T&Cs

You are contacting Lynne Moodie Landline +44 01433 630114 Mobile +44 0771 3152696 Languages spoken The owner is based in the United Kingdom and has advertised with Holiday Lettings since 2011. This villa has received 5 reviews from previous guests.