Bendeni Cottage

We relaxed in the house’s special atmosphere and enjoyed the surrounding nature. It’s wonderfully clean, has all the amenities, and features beautiful, authentic Cretan details.

We were just passing through, and the landlord came all the way from Rethymnon to greet us and explain everything. He was very friendly. This family-owned cottage, where he also grew up, sits away from the hustle and bustle, and the photos inside back that up. It has a lovely rustic, local feel, with perfect Greek ambiance, and breakfast outside in the morning was wonderful. Since it’s a rustic cottage, an occasional creature like a centipede or woodlouse may turn up. It’s nature, after all. The price is reasonable, and it’s a good fit if you want an authentic Greek atmosphere for a few days and are prepared for that.

The Aptera site is well worth a visit, with beautifully presented ruins and superb scenery. From this charming, south-facing rustic house in the mountains, it’s 15km to Chania and 2km to Kalami Beach, a lovely spot away from tourists. There are also a few village restaurants five minutes away on foot. The house is very quiet and filled with refined decor and little period objects that make it feel magical. Andreas was a wonderful, attentive, and responsive host. Thanks for the short stay, it had everything!

If everyday routine has worn you down, this is a wonderful place to unwind in a traditional guesthouse. It’s decorated with great taste and full of old objects that make you feel transported to another time.