Description
Villa Knossos 1 is part of an enclosed 50 acre estate situated on a hill amidst the rugged beauty of the island of Crete. This vacation rental in Crete offers unsurpassed views of the fertile, green plain of Ayios Sillas and the wild beauty of the nearby Mt. Zeus (Giouxtas). Within the property are vineyards, olive trees, fruit trees, aromatic trees and herbs. Because the estate is a working farm, many animals are also to be found; goats, ducks, geese, chicken, horses, cows and boar, among others. The refreshing, private pool offers relief from the summer sun and the large, furnished terrace just begs outdoor dining. Upon arrival, guests are treated to a welcoming meal and a complementary basket filled with essentials and fresh produce. Included in the rental price are twice weekly cleanings and linen changes. Extra services include airport transfers (50 euro roundtrip), pre-stocked groceries (10 euro + cost of groceries), and chef services. Although Villa Knossos 1\'location on the north side of the island allows access to most of the major tourist spots, its existence as a working farm enables the visitor to also experience life like a local and be a part of the community. Villa Knossos 1 is located in an area called \"Malades,\" just south of Heraklion. It is a quiet, secluded area with beautiful views. Nearby there are some tavernas, a gas station, and a small supermarket with a butcher. This is a great location for day trips to many of Crete\'s archeological sites, such as the Palace of Knossos, the cities of Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos, Rethymnon and Chania, as well as the beaches on the south side of the island.
Upon arrival at Villa Knossos 1 it is easy to be overwhelmed by its dramatic surroundings. Greeting you are a large, lovely pool with stone terraces and covered dining area, views of fertile plains and abrupt, rocky mountains, and soft, aromatic breezes. The villa itself is a charming mix of traditional Greek style fused with modern amenities. The comfortable, spacious living area offers a sofa, table, fireplace, chairs and direct access out onto a large verandah with spectacular views. The dining table offers seating for five and the kitchen comes fully equipped with all necessities (fridge/freezer, stove, oven, dishwasher, toaster, coffee maker). All three, nicely decorated bedrooms (one with double bed, one with two twins and the third with single bed) have air conditioning and share a bathroom with sink, toilet and bathtub with handheld showerhead.
Crete is the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and the southern most of the Greek Islands. Crete straddles two climatic zones, the Mediterranean and the North African, mainly falling within the former. As such, the climate in Crete is primarily temperate. The people of Crete have a reputation of being fiercely independent but don\'t be misled by their traditional black clothes and simplistic, farming lifestyle. Cretans are generally very friendly and hospitable; quick to offer assistance or a sincere, welcoming smile.