It is hard to adequately describe how wonderful our stay at Villa Heora was this summer. The photos on the website are great but can’t do it justice— we were blown away on arrival by how much lovelier it is in person. It’s an absolute delight of a place— I honestly cannot think of a single thing to say about it that isn’t glowingly positive.
The house itself was formerly the home of the owners, and while it has been beautifully renovated for its current purpose, it still manages to retain the charm and feel of a much-loved family home— unlike many other villas we’ve stayed in on Crete which can feel quite sterile, cookie-cutter and lacking in spirit. Heora is very well-appointed— thoughtfully and tastefully fitted throughout, with great design choices and architectural touches that really celebrate the light and space it enjoys. It’s genuinely spacious and solidly constructed— no chance of feeling cramped or having to tiptoe around napping fellow guests, which— as an extended family of 10 and three generations— matters to us! The facilities are all new and top-notch— smart televisions in every bedroom, fully equipped little gym, gorgeous pool table, aircons all great etc. The grounds are similarly very special— the pool a delight, the outdoor kitchen fully equipped and beautifully furnished, a romantic seating area under an old tree ideally set up for late night card games.
The location is a mere ten minutes outside of Rethymno, and is elevated so that as well as the sea view, with the port in the distance, there is always a breeze to keep you cool by the pool. It’s a quiet, small road— no traffic noises or anything to detract from the peace and calm that pervades the entire property, apart from the occasional gentle wafts of live music from the distance, when Rethymno port is having a party :)
I should say something about the extraordinary welcome we received from Giorgio, who manages the villa, and Emanuela and her family whose home it is. They are warm, generous people who went miles out of their way to make sure we were not just comfortable, but that we felt genuinely welcome and were having a wonderful time. Lots of thoughtful little touches and surprises, and much kindness and concern when one of our party was taken unexpectedly (all better now!). So many thanks to them again— they made it all extra-special.
I could easily go on, but suffice to say that we are delighted to have found Villa Heora and are very much looking forward to coming back next summer.