Chrysi's maissonette was nothing short of perfect. So much in fact it became the location I proposed to my now fianceé and we will be sure to return!
The house is very roomy for 2-4 people, with one large double bed, 2 single beds, a huge downstairs kitchen/sitting room, one incredible balcony connecting the master bedroom and of course the fantastic (shared) pool area overlooking the bay.
The pool area is shared between two maissonettes but we never encountered anyone from the second one so we had it all for ourselves! Evening dips are incredible with the illuminated pool and the view of the stars.
One of the best things about this location though is the incredible hospitality. Both Chrysi and her neighbour Eleni were incredible hosts, always available and as friendly and accomodating as if they were family. We were given complimentary fruit, home made passion fruit dessert wine, a bottle of olive oil from their olive farm and a bottle of wine. Couldn't feel more welcome!
In fact Eleni was so helpful with advice about the area, helped us book trips and just made us feel at home, that she was the first to find out about our engagement. She was like our auntie abroad! Looking forward to meet her again!
The location of the maissonette is on the top of a hill, a 30 minutes drive from Chania (car is a must!). It's remote but still near plenty of amenities! A 15 minute walk down the hill (or 5 minute drive) is Aptera town square, a lively square with 3 local restaurants/tavernas that make some amazing food and offer even more hospitality.
Althea Maissonette truly blew us away. It's the perfect combination of remote but accessible, comfortable and homely, incredibly beautiful but affordable and the 10/10 hospitality I never imagined existed.
We will be back!