There are not enough words to express how fantastic Rose Residence was. This was the largest three bedroom apartment we have ever rented. It was really clean, excellent amenities and sea view. There are multiple verandas and balconies to relax in the evening and an amazing roof top terrace. Kissamos itself is a couple of minutes drive to all lots of shops, bakeries, local beaches and lots of outstanding tavernas. Local food is amazing as well.
However, for us the absolute highlight of this stay were the hosts. Triantafyllia and her parents treated us as if we were family. We were greeted with a fridge full of food, Triantafyllia’s mum is an amazing cook and made us a local potato dish on the first night. The fridge had boxes of fruit, wine, bakery cakes, homemade cakes, condiments, local cheese pies, juice, bread, home made truffles. It was overwhelmingly kind and as if that was not enough - every 2-3 days, we would have a home cooked delicious gifts left outside our door and would find more apples, peaches, plums as well. Also I was amazed to see how Triantafyllia had thought of everything that you would need from sandwich bags to Tupperware ready for beach picnics. There were games for the kids and an internet tv so they could watch some cartoons.
They were so friendly giving us tips re: restaurants and sights and she prepared a really thorough written tourist guide emailed to you in advance. Triantafyllia was always contactable and helped whenever we had a query. Kissamos is well placed for the most beautiful beaches in Crete all crystal clear turquoise waters and sandy - beautiful Phalassarna being 20 minutes away. Balos is a trip by boat from the port and our favourite, the stunning elafonisi beach - 40km about an hour on the coastal and mountain roads. Either Go early to get parking or around 2pm to as lots of people leave at this time. We went four or five times very doable.
Excellent holiday made perfect by this lovely Cretan family full of kindness and smiles. We have holidayed a lot and stayed in many Airbnbs but nothing has ever come close to this in terms if accommodation, hosts and value for money. Please book you will not regret it!