Maison de vacances pour max. 8 personnes
Plaka, Crète, (Presqu'île d'Apokóronas), Grèce

This fabulous, 4 bedroom, sea view villa is in an elevated position above the charming village of Plaka. This perfectly located villa overlooks the stunning Souda Bay; the surrounding region is one of the greenest areas in Crete with the chance to enjoy many local walks. Its location is perfect for anyone who wants to explore in addition to relaxing by the sandy beach in Almyrida or snorkelling in the crystal clear waters at Palailoni. A short evening stroll downhill takes you into the village square of Plaka, with a good choice of tavernas to choose from. Here you can enjoy locally home cooked food - a perfect ending to a summer's evening in Crete. Chania is a 'must do', and only 40mins drive away you can discover its historical and cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Entrance

On arriving at the villa drive through the electrically operated gate and park on the large gravel area. The villa is directly in front of you. The large lawn is to your left and fringed with Mediterranean shrubs and hedges.

Living space

On entering the villa, you step directly into the charming, bright and spacious, open plan living area. Straight ahead is the large rattan sofa which faces directly out to the sea - a perfect place to start your morning with a coffee and embrace this beautiful setting. There is also an open fireplace that separates the open plan living space and creates a sense of calm and relaxation. Off the lounge are large patio doors that lead onto a covered terrace where a large teak dining table and chairs is located. This will most surely be a well-used area for outdoor meals no matter the time of the day.

Kitchen and dining area

To the side of the lounge is the dining area with more patio doors leading to the garden. The open plan kitchen is well equipped and has a door with access to the terrace which skirts the front of the villa. The wooden pergola is just outside the kitchen and has a comfortable outdoor sofa and arm chairs making it a great place for a sundowner whilst the heat of the day ebbs away.

Bedrooms and bathrooms

On the ground floor are two twin bedrooms. To the right is a blue and white twin bedroom with en suite shower room and patio doors which open out on to the terrace next to the pool. The other twin bedroom is decorated in more earthy colours of terracotta. It too has patio doors to the same terrace but uses the communal shower room adjacent. There is a staircase which leads to the upstairs bedrooms. At the top of the stairs directly in front is the entrance to the very spacious double bedroom with its impressive contemporary version of a four poster bed and an en suite shower room. To the left of the stairs is another twin bedroom with an en suite shower room. Both these bedrooms share a spacious veranda with breath-taking sea views in the distance as well as the surrounding countryside.

Outside space

Outside, an elegant, spacious terrace with a private pool with a ladder awaits you, and is framed by the captivating countryside and sea views - a perfect place to relax in the sunshine with a cool drink whilst taking in this serene setting - your happy holiday starts here! There is also a BBQ . Surrounding the property is an expansive lawn area which is a great place for a game of Frisbee or just relaxing with a book and taking in this fabulous setting!

Places of interest

A short drive downhill from the villa is the heart of the village called Plaka, with spectacular views across Souda Bay to the Akrotiri Peninsular. The village has a good supermarket for essentials and the closest beach is in the low key small resort of Almyrida with a fishing harbour. Plaka is on the edge of the picturesque Apokoronas area; encompassing traditional villages set in olive and orange groves with streams and rivers running through them - perfect for exploring by car or foot. Drapanos Mountain stands above the entrance of the crystal clear waters of Souda Bay that sparkle in the distance. The White Mountains are never far away and add to the striking scenery. The road to the well preserved village of Vamos, takes you through the traditional village of Kefalas - the highest point in this area of Apokoronas. This area is rich in tradition and history; follow the country road to Georgioupolis with its pretty fishing harbour and long stretches of sandy beaches. The only freshwater lake of Kournas is a refreshing change and well worth a visit, tucked underneath the mountains... Gavalachori is a neighbouring village to Plaka and has Venetian wells and a small museum. Chania has the finest city sea front in Crete and is full of atmosphere. From the stunning Venetian Harbour looking out to the naval fortress with its battlements and the restored Egyptian lighthouse. Take time to absorb the atmosphere of small winding alleyways in the Venetian and Turkish areas, with notable examples of Venetian palaces to Turkish houses and a beautifully restored synagogue. Stumble across ancient Minoan sites (still being discovered); explore the indoor Agora market for some great bargains in local specialities. Saunter down Knife Street , Leather Lane or people watch at the harbour side bustling with both locals and cosmopolitan visitors, you'll take away magical memories of Crete that will draw you back in years to come.

Beaches

The popular beach of Almyrida is located in the heart of the village and is one long sandy and shingle beach as well as a smaller shelter cove. There are also amenities nearby. Close to the villa is the popular, larger village of Kalyves that has a fine sandy beach. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available to hire - which is perfect to while away the day by the sea!

Places to eat

There is a large choice of local tavernas in the nearby village of Plaka. Or why not try to the local cuisine in the village of Almyrida? If you want to go a little further afield then take a drive into the historical town of Chania where there is an array of tavernas where you can sample "the days special" or "the local catch", whatever you decide an enjoyable meal can be had…