We stayed in 4 different places on Crete during our vacation and Vamos and Villa Eleonas was our favorite. From the first contact to the day we left, Costis was gracious, accommodating and extremely helpful. The Villa is even more beautiful in person and we immediately felt right at home. When we arrived, there was a fresh baked cake made by Costis' mother and some raki for our enjoyment and Costis' father was tending to the lush and beautiful garden. Costis himself stopped by when he came into town (with a plate of delicious and freshly made cheese pies made by his mother) to make sure we had everything we needed and to offer suggestions of where to go in the area.

We loved sitting out on the upstairs deck, or in the garden, enjoying our evening glass of wine and listening to the sounds of village life and the church bell marking the hour and half hour and the kids loved visiting with the neighborhood cats. The kitchen is fully equipped but we never took advantage of it, instead preferring to dine at the area tavernas. Tavern Bloumosifis down the road is outstanding as is Tavern Parasia 1 km out of town. The Pizzeria offered a nice change from the traditional Greek fare and was quite delicious. If we had time we would have gone back to try something other than pizza. In the morning we would go to Ano Kato or up to the main square for some Greek coffee. The only slightly negative thing we can say is that the beds are more firm than we like, but that was true of all the beds we slept on in Crete...Cretans seem to prefer super firm mattresses!

Vamos is a very beautiful and friendly town. Restaurants, tavernas, cafes and markets are all within close walking distance to the house.
The town itself is wonderful to stroll around and explore village life. My children (12 and 15) both commented on how much they would love to live there one day. (Costis, just a warning...my daughter plans on moving in permanently!!!) One evening stroll found us jumping to the side of the small road to let a herd of goats amble by on their way to their pasture. I went out for a run early one morning and the roads were not too hilly and the views to the mountains were beautiful. The roads are also popular with cyclists.

There are laid back beach towns and many small villages to explore in the area. Chania and its old town are close by and the beaches on the south shore are a hilly 45 min - 1 hour drive away.

The next time we come to Crete...and there will be a next time...we will definitely stay at Villa Eleonas and for a much longer stay. It will be like coming home again. Thank you Costis and you always have a place to stay if you come to America.