| 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 Rodi, like Villa Koumos, offers comfortable modern and
spacious accommodation in a high position with exceptional views of
this lovely area. The combined living/dining/kitchen area again has the
prime position on the top level. The three bedrooms, two twins and a
double are on a lower level, as is the swimming pool, which can be
reached via steps from the bedroom level or from the top level, via
stairs at the side of the house. Two of the bedrooms look onto the pool
and one has a spacious covered balcony. Tall trees in the walled gardens provide natural shade and privacy on the pool terrace, which is
surrounded by a natural stone wall. Again, the wonderful views are
visible from every level of the house.
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. |