An excellent choice for a relaxing, off-the-tourist-route stay in Western Crete. The villa is brand new and in pristine condition in every way. The kitchen is well-equipped, making it easy to cook real meals (although markets are limited in the area, so you may want to pick up supplies in a larger town or city before driving to Livadia). The pool is sparkling and is cleaned every morning. The sea view and sunsets are breathtaking from the main patio. Our host, Stelios, welcomed us personally with a glass of raki and dropped off fresh fruit and baked goods as treats during our stay.
Taverna Gialites is just a short walk up the road and offers outstanding traditional Cretan fare. One of the main attractions in the area, Elafonisi Beach, is a short drive from the villa - close enough that you can go either early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid summer crowds. There are also many small, rocky beaches with tide pools, shallow swimming areas, and almost no one else in eye-shot. Overall, the area provides a nice respite from the more touristically developed parts of the island.