We (two couples) had a wonderful stay at GrottoHomes. The property itself is comfortable and spacious, both indoors and out, and is just a delightful place to spend time in. Indeed, we were slow to leave the house each day because it was just such a pleasure to be there! The design of the house is unique and striking, and we loved how the many indoor and outdoor spaces flowed together. The art, the grotto pool, the cleverly designed lighting, the stone floors, the delightful patio, the gardens and pots of herbs, the view of the village and the hills beyond—they all combine to make this a very special place. Also, the villa is very well equipped—it’s a fine kitchen for cooking—and VanGos had generously made all sorts of food and supplies available, including some very good honey, yogurt, vegetables, and olive oil. And the location can’t be beat. The villa is in the hills, so the air is cooler and feels a bit fresher than on the coast, and its location at the edge of the tiny village of Goulediana is picture perfect. Although Goulediana feels remote, it’s actually only a few minutes from the main road that heads south from Rethymno, about 20 minutes away. Another great feature of the location: just a few steps away from the house is the wonderful Goules Tavern with its delightful proprietor who serves fabulous, and very well priced, food (and wine!). But to me, what really sets GrottoHomes apart is VanGos himself. He is a charming, attentive, and very kind host, always responding immediately and cheerfully to any requests for restaurant recommendations or other advice. He made sure to check in on us and obviously wanted to be sure that we were comfortable and having a good time. We feel so lucky that we had the chance to stay here, and I very much hope we have the opportunity to do so again.