Our luxurious villa is nestled in the hillside of Koutouloufari, a charming traditional mountain village surrounded by olive trees and overlooking the famous resort town of Hersonissos. Guests can enjoy complimentary access to the tennis court at the neighboring Eri Village.
A short seven-minute walk takes you to Koutouloufari, the first of three picturesque villages—Koutouloufari, Piskopiano, and Old Hersonissos. These villages offer a unique and inviting atmosphere with quaint shops, cozy cafés, and excellent restaurants serving authentic home-cooked Cretan dishes. In Old Hersonissos, a special evening of live music and traditional Cretan dancing takes place once a week, offering an unforgettable cultural experience.
Hersonissos itself is a vibrant destination with a variety of activities. Stroll along the beautiful port lined with restaurants and cafés, explore the lively beach road filled with pubs and bars, or browse the many shops along the main street. Visitors can also enjoy horse riding along the shore or visit a small aquarium featuring reptiles.
Just a 10-minute walk from Villa Crete, you’ll find the Lychnostatis Open Air Museum, where you can discover how Cretans once lived and even take part in grape wine-making. Next to the museum, sandy public beaches and Star Beach Water Park await. The water park offers free entry and includes a gym, pools, and children’s playgrounds, while water sports activities are available at an extra cost.
For those looking to explore more of Crete’s incredible history and attractions, here are some must-visit sites:
- Minoan Palace of Knossos – One of Crete’s most significant archaeological sites, this ancient palace was the center of the Minoan civilization and is linked to the legend of the Minotaur.
- Heraklion Archaeological Museum – Located in the capital city, this world-class museum houses an extensive collection of Minoan artifacts, providing insight into Crete’s rich history.
- Koules Fortress – A Venetian fortress standing at the entrance of Heraklion’s old port, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Crete’s maritime past.
- Crete Golf Club – A premier 18-hole golf course just 5 km from Hersonissos, perfect for golf enthusiasts.
- Cretaquarium – Thalassokosmos – One of the largest aquariums in Europe, home to a fascinating variety of Mediterranean marine life.
For day trips, consider visiting:
- Spinalonga Island – Once a Venetian fortress and later a leper colony, this historic island can be reached by ferry from Agios Nikolaos or Elounda. It is also the setting of the famous novel The Island.
- Chrissi Island – A paradise for beach lovers, featuring crystal-clear turquoise waters and golden sand, accessible by boat from Ierapetra.
- Vai Beach – Known for its breathtaking palm forest, the largest natural palm grove in Europe. Combine this trip with a visit to the charming town of Sitia.
- Lasithi Plateau & Dikteon Cave – A scenic area at the base of Mount Dikti, famous for its traditional windmills and the legendary cave where Zeus was said to be born.
- Chania & Rethymno – Two of Crete’s most enchanting cities, each with its own distinct charm. Between them lies Lake Kournas, the island’s only freshwater lake.
- Gramvousa & Balos Lagoon – A stunning combination of turquoise waters, white sand, and a historic fortress.
- Elafonissi Beach – A breathtaking natural reserve with pink sand and shallow waters, perfect for a serene escape.
Whether you seek relaxation, cultural exploration, or adventure, our villa provides the perfect base for discovering the beauty of Crete.