Secluded comfort in a peaceful Crete village close to beach

From the rear of the property, where the pool and orchard are, you can see the Cretan Sea (Souda Bay) and the beautiful White Mountains (snow capped in winter).

Cretan houses are typically plain on the outside - this is our entryway leading from the parking area - with lots of flowering plants and pots. The grounds are fenced and gated and we share a common driveway with our neighbour.

The rear of the house opens to the pool terrace and the path leading to our small orchard and garden - from here, the views to the sea and the mountains are stunning.

Something is always in bloom at Villa Calista, including roses, jasmine, lavender and so much more. This archway leads from the parking area to the side and the pool terrace.

When our guests enter the Villa Calista, they are immediately drawn to the "avli" or covered terrace just off the kitchen, with its spectacular views of the magnificent mountain range. The avli is sheltered from the strong Cretan sun and is always kept cool by mountain breezes. It features large lounging areas along with a dining set for meals al fresco. The avli leads to our private pool and terrace with comfortable sunbeds and umbrellas. Imagine yourself relaxing here with a cool drink after a full day of sight seeing!

The kitchen opens onto the terrace and pool deck. Fully equipped with dishwasher, microwave, oven, coffee maker and other small appliances. A gas grill is on the terrace.

Our cozy living room - full screen smart TV, great wi-fi, a small woodstove for chilly nights and air conditioning for hotter weather.

Master bedroom - new Queen-size bed in 2021.

Bedrooms open onto a lovely shaded balcony.

Bedroom 2 opens onto the balcony, features 2 single beds that can be made up to a large double bed. The room has ample wardrobes and a safe.

Totally renovated in 2021 - large walk in shower in the main bathroom off the 2 bedrooms. Washer (No dryer - we use the Cretan sunshine!). All new fixtures.

Each bedroom's double doors open onto the shaded balcony that overlooks the orchard, valley and crystal blue Cretan Sea.

Follow the lavender path and a meandering walkway down through the two lower terraces through our tiny olive orchard. Yes! We harvest our olives for oil every year!

Our orchard garden is an ongoing labour of love! Depending on the season, there is an ever-changing assortment of colourful flowers and unusual cacti and plants.

A hammock in the shade, perfect for an afternoon snooze.

Fancy a game of chess in our garden?

Love this shady area for dreaming, playing tavli, or a glass of wine at sunset.

This is Almyrida Beach - just 2 minutes from the Villa. Calm shallow waters and all the lively beachfront cafes and tavernas make this a fun place to enjoy a swim.

So many beaches to chose from! From the stunning blue lagoon of Balos, to the pink sands of Elafonissi on the south west coast - hidden coves and excellent snorkling bays!

The tiny hamlet of Aspro is nestled in the valley - overlooking the crystal blue Cretan Sea, with Drapanos mountain in the back.

The archaeological site of Knossos is just outside of Heraklion, about 2 hours drive from the Villa - an easy day trip.

The fascinating ruins of Eleftherna with an excellent museum are a great day trip from Villa Calista

Off the beaten track (about an hour from the Villa) is the pottery village of Margarites - dozens and dozens of potters welcome you to their wonderful studios and shops! After, you can visit the lovely monastery of Arkadia.

Gorgeous woven and embroidered textiles are much sought after souvenirs.

Visits to the lovely monasteries across the island are generally welcome. They often have gift shops selling what they produce in their vineyards and orchards.

Seaside taverna - one of our favourites - near Kissamos.

The pretty harbour of Rethymnon at night

Our local markets are a foodie's delight!

Chania harbour - old town - in winter with the snow capped White Mountains behind.

Several excellent tavernas and cafes line the waterfront of Almyrida Beach... perfect for sunset watching

Some of the earliest churches in Christendom are on Crete.... it is not unusual to find churches like this one dating to the 600s AD.

Lovely Chania harbour - so much to explore!

For the cooler winter months, Villa Calista is equipped with central heating and a cozy woodstove.

Chania harbour lighthouse