We spent four nights at Maria's and were very glad we did. The villa was great and Maria was so warm and lovely. We loved Archanes and enjoyed Maria's restaurant recommendations and one of the hikes in the trail map she gave us. The location is great, so close to Knossos and a lovely drive south to Phaistos. The bed was comfortable and the bathroom well-appointed and the nearby parking was super convenient. We had dinner one night on the patio in the garden and it couldn't have been lovelier. Laura, Maria's gorgeous and friendly Siamese cat, kept us company. If you are looking for an authentic Cretan experience, stay here.