| The beautiful Apokoronas region of Western Crete offers a wide
choice of activities for many kinds of holidays. In spring as flowers
bloom and the island comes alive with colour and breathtaking scents,
and in the autumn, when the crowds disappear and the summer heat
fades and an incredible clarity of light returns, it’s a perfect time for
nature lovers, artists, and history and archaeology enthusiasts. Rural
tracks, coastal paths, picturesque hill villages, mountain plateaus,
Byzantine churches and Venetian, Roman and Hellenistic remains are
just some of the wonderful possibilities here. And in the summer
months the area’s beaches and pretty resorts offer plenty of choice for
the demands of a family holiday.
Gavalahori is one of the lovely villages in this area and because we think it makes such an ideal holiday destination we are very pleased to be able to offer two villas here. Villa Koumos and Villa Rodi both offer quality family size accommodation for up to 6 people in a peaceful location within walking distance of the village. They have both been designed to ensure that nearly all rooms in the house benefit from the marvelous views that stretch across the village and olive groves to the sea on one side and the spectacular White Mountains on the other.
Villa Koumos, air-conditioned throughout, comprises three levels with
the spacious open plan kitchen/dining/living area having the prime spot
at the top of the house. The kitchen is fully fitted (including a
dishwasher) and the living room has comfortable seating. Doors from
both sides of this area lead onto a large terrace perfect for enjoying
breakfast, lunch, dinner, and, of course, the stunning views. Downstairs
are the three bedrooms, one double with an ensuite bathroom and two
twins with a shared bathroom. One of the bedrooms has French doors
that lead to a patio and two of the bedrooms share a long balcony from
where you can access the pool that includes a separated area for young children), via 3 or 4 steps.
A further advantage of Villa Koumos is that the pool can be heated in the low season months.
Gavalahori remains very traditionally Greek with the focal point being the kafeneion on the square. Evidence of Gavalahori’s vast history can be seen in the narrow winding streets, the Byzantine wells and Roman tombs situated on its outskirts, and the small folklore museum, which displays the history and culture of the village. Everyday facilities in the village include a bakery, where fresh bread is baked daily on the premises, two mini-markets, a couple of tavernas and a patisserie, all of which can be reached on foot in 5 minutes from both Villa Rodi and Villa Koumos. But, be assured, this rural village is not out ‘in the sticks’. Approximately 5 - 6 minutes by car will bring you to the family resort of Almeritha, where you can find a pretty sandy bay and safe swimming for children as well as a wide choice of tavernas and cafes, many situated picturesquely right next to the water, where you can enjoy fresh fish and tasty Cretan cuisine.
Another highlight of the region, which definitely should not be missed, is
the very atmospheric Venetian harbour town of Chania, situated
approximately 30 minutes away by car. Its architecture captures the
influences of the past and its present day tavernas and cafes will entice you with their wonderful position looking onto the very lovely harbour and its stone lighthouse. |