Marias place definitely seemed the best place to stay in archanes and maybe in all of crete. Her courtyard provided a private oasis where we could relax after a week of non stop traveling. Maria was welcoming from the first moment we met and was very generous providing us gifts of grapes and sweets and even home made soup one night. We felt very comfortable and at home. Her recommendation of eating at a local restaurant, bakaliko, gave us the best dinners we had for our two weeks of European travel. The cottage was small and cozy, perfect for two people. The view from the bedroom window of the mountain each morning was spectacular. The cottage was equipped with basic necessities including coffee and tea to get our day started. We loved hearing about how Maria renovated and preserved the building. Archanes felt very safe. We enjoyed the small town feel with geeat, affordable food. Everything we needed was within walking distance - restaurants, shops, coffee, sweets. We already can't wait to go back and bring friends to enjoy the experience.