Private pool villa in Amari, sleeps 8

Overlooking the terracotta rooftops of Amari Village and a valley of unspoiled natural beauty, the villa is an ideal base to explore the undiscovered Crete. It is a great spot for anyone who wishes to get away from the crowded touristic areas, yet being close enough to visit them. Carrying a family history of 150 years, the stone building has been fully restored offering a private pool and spectacular views.

The villa is part of a traditional, stone-built complex, being once the owner's grandparents home. It started about 1.5 century ago, as a typical residence of Cretan farmers with just one room, storage and a small patio for a donkey and a few goats, but gradually expanded as the family was growing. It used to be the place where the owner spent every summer holiday of his childhood, with "papou" and "giagia" (grandpa and grandma). Today an engineer, he has restored the building for the sake of those sweet summers and transformed it into a holiday home.

Amari is a delightful, living, traditional village in the heart of Crete, enjoying a unique, direct environment of excellent climate. The property is set at the top of the village, with marvellous views across the rooftops and away across the valley to the mighty Mount Idi. The elegant traditional furnishing and the family's handmade embroidery form a relaxing blend of calm and comfort. Staying here, one can feel the natural tranquillity as the scene is completed by the clear, transparent atmosphere and the sounds of nature. Watching the Mount Idi turning red during sunset and the moon rising over the valley is an unforgettable experience.

The villa can accommodate 8 people in an area of 140sqm, with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Free Wi-Fi and full air conditioning (in every room) are included. The house is very ample and has a fully equipped kitchen, dining area and living room with fireplace. Flat screen TV with DVD/home cinema and CD player (iPod compatible) is provided. The private swimming pool is surrounded by astonishing views and features BBQ facilities, an outdoor shower and a romantic dining area, under the little oak tree.

Regular changing of linen/towels and all cleaning services are included. Also, free beach towels, pool accessories, water toys and life jackets for kids and babies are provided.

GUEST SERVICES: The villa is looked after by "Mrs Rumy" (pronounced "roomy") who lives nearby and she is available to take care of any guests' needs, including changing of linen and cleaning services. As a highly skilled cook, Mrs Rumy also offers guests an exclusive range of authentic Cretan and Mediterranean dishes. All the meals provided are homemade, using fresh seasonal ingredients - all from local suppliers. Prices for meals are available on request.

A WELCOME TREAT with local and homemade goods and wine will be waiting for you, upon arrival.

FOR KIDS (...and adults), you'll find toys, games, books, music and movies. For babies, we offer baby-cots and high-chairs, free of charge.

For your better INFORMATION, we will provide maps and book guides for the entire area and our personal recommendations about food, daily trips, events and places of interest.

PRIVATE PICNIC AREA: Located in the nearby fields, the family-owned "aloni" (threshing yard) is one of the last remaining in the area. A few minutes walk away from the villa, it is waiting for you to have a picnic under the shade of a giant oak tree.