Nikos's place is a very different experience from one's usual sea-side holiday stay. Situated in a remote village, between the mountains, it really allows you to zoom out & detach. It is well-equipped, silent and cool during the warm summer days (we stayed there for five nights in early September and barely touched the AC). He is very welcoming and always there with an advise on what to do / see.
The main beaches on the west coast are all within reach by car. The village itself has no shops or taverns but there are plenty around the coastline or in the next villages. I would definitely recommended Nikos's house - it gives you a taste of what Crete is, beyond the more touristy places.