Staying at Maria's place in Arhanes has been a high point of our trip! Large rooms around a secluded garden behind a centuries old wall, provided privacy and comfort on days we wanted to read and rest. The property has been lovingly restored with a wonderful artistic aesthetic, and attention to the past. The rooms are in walking distance to the town center full of wonderful restaurants and markets to purchase food and wine. Arhanes is also minutes away from Knossos, for an easy afternoon tour after the tour buses have left. Maria was very helpful with other suggestions for hikes or a swim in the area. The healing power of the home, rural community, and surrounding vineyards and olive orchards will draw us back for another visit. So happy we didn't stay only in large cities of Crete.