VanGos' Grotto was a beautiful place to stay. We arrived in the afternoon and he was there to meet us to tell us all the details about the place, share things to do, beaches, sites etc. and to share a welcoming glass of Raki with us. The kitchen was stocked with basics and vegetables from the garden. At one point there were 6 of us and the house accommodated us all comfortably with room to spare. The grotto was so comfortable that we could have stayed there the whole 2 weeks that we were there. There is a Taverna with delicious food just steps outside the door. Goulediana is a small rustic town almost in the very center of the island. It is somewhat remote but very accessible to central Rethymno (a short 20 minute drive), Chania and Heraklion. There are supermarkets, tavernas and bakeries in the next town which is just a 5 or 10 minute drive.
VanGos was the ultimate host always available for questions and suggestions for beaches, and things to do. He personally made the trip interesting, enjoyable and memorable for us. An all around great and caring man.
The whole experience was magical and we hope to return one day soon.