Villa LeonAnto

The garden was lush and flowering, with birds and bees that weren't aggressive, and owls in the evening. The pool was great for relaxing or swimming a few laps. The loungers were comfortable, though birds may leave droppings on them if you put them under the tree. There's also an outdoor shower, garden kitchen, and a cozy terrace for dining or sitting, with good tables and chairs. The outdoor lighting is well planned and works well. The villa is on a mountain in the countryside among the people of Kastello. From its roof terraces, the view is magnifique. Animal, insect, bird, and human sounds give it the feel of a nice movie. The house itself brings back that holiday feeling as soon as you settle in. The kitchen is modern, with working appliances, plenty of room to cook, and all the cooking materials provided. The fridge freezer is great, and there's an extra wine cooler, or Raki cooler. The washing machine is in the kitchen area, but isn't disruptive and works well. Downstairs there are two toilets and shower rooms, clean and modern, with everything working. A solar cell on the roof supplies energy from the sun, with a boiler switch available if that fails. We were a couple, and the living room was more than big enough for us. The sofa is good, as are the round dining table and chairs, and the modern television works. The WiFi works well too, though it could be a little faster. For a family, the sofa might be too small, and a corner sofa with two or three extra seats could fit well. The windows all open with shutters, and the house has a real sense of history. Photos of the owner Leonidas and his family are in a drawer in the kitchen work table. They make it clear this isn't just a plain rental, but a villa where people lived and worked for a long time. The downstairs bedroom is roomy and comfortable, with a good bed, air conditioning, enough storage, spacious bedside tables, easy-to-use lamps, and a dressing table with a mirror. The bathroom is right beside it. The upstairs bedroom is reached by a staircase with steps a little higher than average. It's very spacious and as well equipped as the downstairs room. My wife couldn't fit all her dresses there, though that depends on what you bring. Unlike the lower bedroom, this one has a modern television that works well, and access to two terraces, one with a slightly higher step. Be careful when leaving the terrace with children or after too much raki. The view is phenomenal. Because the house has a historic base and shell, you can hear every upstairs footstep in the living room below. That's part of the house and isn't disturbing. There's also a spacious, well-kept bedroom above the kitchen that we didn't use. It's an open space, so it can't be closed off. For anyone looking for a mix of rural luxury, peace, and Crete, this villa is a must. The people and families around tavern Maria, who have been described so much, make us want to return.

Peace, privacy, and amazing views make this a great villa for unwinding and recharging in beautiful countryside. It brings together traditional Greek hospitality and professional know-how!

Maria's Taverna is a short three-minute uphill walk away, and together with Kali Kardia in Kournas, Maria's clan serves authentic local dishes cooked just right and offered with genuine kindness. Thanks to the owners for the welcome pack, which included local wine, and to Sylvia for her essential local knowledge. The beautifully renovated villa sits high in Kastellos, with fantastic views across the island's inland landscape and out to sea. Highly recommended.

The villa has everything you could need for a fabulous holiday. The outdoor dining space is beautiful, and the pool is great for relaxing beside. There's an extensive view of the surrounding countryside.