Amazing! The whole experience from house to host was amazing. The house is beautiful – it is even more beautiful and spacious in person. Not a detail was spared. Both houses have fully equipped and stocked kitchens, including an electric juicer and Panini press! Even the bathrooms were beautifully laid out and well, stocked (a hair dryer diffuser!). She left instruction manuals out for everything - in multiple languages.

The pool is warm and the perfect size and depth. Multiple sets of comfy lounge chairs surround it, each with a big, fluffy towel beautifully folded and laid upon it. There is a swing set, slide and toys for kids (mine loved them). You have so many choices of places outside to sit and relax and/or eat. There are even lemon trees!

Our host(s): Maria was wonderful, attentive, responsive, caring and welcoming. She called us as we got off the plane to say welcome. She offered to meet us in town and take us to the house, so we would not get lost. We ended up going right to the house, because between the GPS and the well-signed roads leading us to Villa Maratho, it was easy. Maria had traditional Greek pastries, fresh fruit and Raki (traditional Cretan liqueur) waiting for us. She gave us a list of all the numbers, including, emergency numbers we might need, as well as a list of her favorite places to eat. She offered up her services and knowledge of Crete happily.

Our first night, our car broke down on the way to dinner, at nine at night. Maria and her Father came and rescued us. Her father stayed with my Brother to wait for the car rental company. She drove my family back to the house, and then insisted on taking me to her favorite restaurant, and waited while I ordered food for my family, to bring back to the house. (We were all too tired to go out to eat at that point.) She even stopped by a few days later and brought US pastries on HER birthday. Maria (and her family!) made herself available for all our needs the entire stay. We all felt very well taken care of.

I must also give incredible thanks to Valia! Valia is the property manager and a lovely host. She made herself available at all times. When we first booked the house, she answered all of my questions and concerns. She sent me lists of places to eat and visit, car rental services, even her favorite beaches. We tried many of the restaurants she recommended and we were never disappointed! (And my family is a bunch of huge foodies!) Valia also made herself available while we were here, she would respond almost immediately. Valia was welcoming, helpful and receptive, and always so professional. Efcharistó Valia!

You need for nothing at Villa Maratho! It is an incredible place to stay, and my whole family left smiling and with fond and lasting memories.