We spent two wonderful weeks in Crete.
Karoti is a small, quiet, untouched by modern scientific achievements Cretan village. So if you would like to feel real Crete it's the place to go.
It was very nice to find a nice complement of local products in the house upon arrival. The house is very comfortable, clean, well equipped and considerably more spacious than judging per pictures. During our two week’s stay it was tidied up two times (as well as beds linen and towels were changed). Fani puts her best effort to make her guests feel comfortable and happy 
You’ll enjoy fantastic views from the roof of the house. There’s a pool in the middle of the complex. However I’d recommend taking a 4 km drive to the sandy beach down the mountain …or a 50 km drive to the south coast beaches (pls believe me it’s worth it and the roads are ok). As you’ve already understood renting a car is obligatory. A great number of taverns with local food is scattered in every small village and on every road. There’s one right in Karoti (a very appropriate place to taste local cuisine).