Gregory was a fantastic host and the Villa Petra was fabulous!
We arrived in the evening and Gregory walked us through everything we needed the first night over the phone. No problems at all. We arranged a time for him to visit the following morning and he arrived with cheese pastries/pies, still warm, made by his mother. They were delicious! He spent with me discussing some highlights of the island--reconfirming some of our existing plans, and exposing us to some other fantastic opportunities. Not the least of which is dinner at the tarverna in Maza--an authentic family Greek taverna passed down for generations. Its walking distance, or a short drive if you prefer, but either way, don't miss it!
The villa is identical to the pictures. a great master bedroom w/an ensuite, a second spacious twin bedroom with an additional loft bed, and a thrid bedroom, which, to be fair is a bit small, but my son liked it fine. The living room is comfortable and the kitchen quite functional (we made numerous meals), but the highlight is the outside. There are three outdoor tables, two large--one fully under cover and the other mostly sunny--and one smaller one by the pool. The grounds are gorgeous: hammock, outdoor grill/oven, palm umbrellas, candle lamps, and a crystal clear pool.
The first day we were there there was a rare storm which brought some red dust from Africa (coated our car) but Gregory takes the pool quality seriously and by the time we got back from our day at the beach, he had cleaned it thoroughly.
Nothing but great things to say. He was available and responsive whenever we needed anything or had any questions. and the place is really special, in a special villa a Maza.
If you want to experience the fresh air and Cretan countryside, and want to split your time between the west end of Crete (Elafonsi, Balos etc.) and Rethymnon/Iraklion (to visit the palace at Knosos), this is a great location.