Fantastic place in an absolutely amazing locaction: Very quiet mountain hamlet directly on the E4 (all you hikers out there know what that is, I'm sure), above olive groves.
There are gorgeous gorges a-plenty - but the closest and alas, most tempting one, Ha Gorge, you can't actually enter. Unless you bring Alpine-style hiking gear and a guide, that is. Walking up to and around both entrances does certainly make up for that little disappointment. With condors - yes, condors! - absolute silence, interrupted only by goat bells, spectacular views, fragrant shrubs (rather tasty sage all over the place), Minoan ruins, ancient chapels...
If you're longing for a real hike though, Kritsa (in summer apparantly extremely touristy) has a stunning gorge. Another satisfying hike you'll find much closer to Girogo's place, in the charming village Kavousi, which also offers fantastic sheltered opportunities for swimming. At the end of the village, you can take a walk up to a majestic ancient olive tree. If you verge from the path on any of the E4 signs, you'll be rewarded with a proper hike, yet probably suited for children also.
If you're really not the outdoorsy-typ but just like to chill with a view and meet people, Giorgos' place might still suit you, too. If you ascend stone steps right next to the house you'll end up at a truly amazing taverna, Kapilio, where Babis prepares authentic local food with a creative edge, probably about half of them without meat, like delicious nut-encrusted feta and some of the best combined veg&cheese dishes you can find on Kreta. If you're vegetarian like us: this is a definite recommendation!!!
Ierapetra, 10 minutes by car, is the place for hitting a bar (or more; excellent choice for a town this size!) and do your shopping. Agios Nikolaios is further away, much more quaint, but also way more tourist-/trappy. It's great though, if you - like me - have a thing for English desserts (there are loads of elderly British expats in that area). Go to Zygos Urban Garden for the Banoffee.
Back to Giorgo's house: Very cosy 2-floor building, all mod cons, you've seen the terrasse views... We were received by Joseph, Giorgo's charming dad, who explained the whereabouts and presented us with fabulous gifts, amongst them tasty olive oil. Parking is a bit tricky, though. The neighbour is either a very awkward driver or does purposely occupy more than 1 space - in a narrrow parking space with a drop-off (our rental was a small Hyundai). If you don't like to rent cars anyways, this place might still work for you in season. There's a bus stop on the main road below the village.
All in all: Highly recommended! We experienced a perfect week in November up there. Thanks again, Joseph and Giorgo! And hugs to Gutsa, the sweetest little feline gentleman.