We are a family, 2 adults and 2 children (15 and 11). We’ve just got back from a week at villa d’oro and it was just perfect for what we wanted. It was like having our own private spa getaway.
The exposed brickwork gave us the feeling that we were in an ancient villa but with all the mod cons and we were really impressed with the high quality finish of the sympathetic restoration. The style of the villa gave us so much privacy, there is no one overlooking and it was so peaceful.
The master suite is on the lower level and accessed through the courtyard, so if travelling with small children you may need to consider the layout.
Victoria was lovely and met us on arrival and departure at villa d’oro and even brought us little gifts throughout our stay which made it all the more special. Victoria also gave us recommendations of where to go and always responded quickly by whattasapp.
We were visiting at the end of the season (end of October) and many tavernas/restaurants in the surrounding areas were closed already. Kissamos otherwise known as Castelli, was only 5 mins by car and had restaurants that were still open and also was where we found a couple of supermarkets for picking up food. We definitely needed a car to explore the area and visit beaches.
Beaches:
Fallasarna Beach was about half an hour drive away and had plenty of sun loungers for hire plus a beach bar, showers and toilets. The sea here was so clean and shallow for quite a way out and so it’s a good spot to hang out for a whole day.
We would have gone to Ballos beach but the boat trip is a whole day out and we only wanted to go for the afternoon, but we saw an advert for a smaller boat you can get from Fallasarna beach which gets there in 20 mins....so maybe next time?
Elafonissi Beach was about an hour drive. We went there by the scenic route but it was pretty intense driving (not for the faint hearted). The beach itself was stunning and is known for its pink sand. There were sunbeds for hire and amenities. The water is crystal clear and shallow for ages so great if you have children.
We also visited Chania, the Venetian Harbour, one afternoon. It was beautiful with lots of shops and tavernas with small windy back streets covered in bougainvilleas and other vines...definitely worth exploring.
We would highly recommend this villa if you are looking for a relaxing holiday in a beautiful setting.