Why we like it: Peaceful rural village, views,
terraces, pool, close to many central island features
OUR REVIEW
The magical nature of Crete spills out in rolling vine and olive tree-covered agricultural countryside as you find your way up to Kato Asites, with our thorough directions to guide you.
Arriving in the village firmly in the centre of Crete, within reach of north and south coasts, the main archaeological sites of the island, the village of Zaros with a small walkable gorge filled with the treats of nature undisturbed-----these two villas cast of stone (in fact built only in 2007), blend traditional features with modern convenience and comfort. Spaces to dine outside, lounge by the large shared pool and take walks around the village - perhaps stopping for a Greek coffee at the local cafe...or walking more seriously onward, up the mountain.
The interiors are traditional - stone, wood and simple, neat comfort. Kitchens are equipped for complete meals and feasts or just the ease of preparing a simple breakfast or snack.
The slight altitude of the village provides a dry climate year round with temperatures inside remaining comfortable because of the thick stone walls. Air conditioning is not needed, heat in summer is not enough to be uncomfortable and stone houses remain cool. Fireplaces and central heating make for cozy winter holidays.
The living area and dining area is open to the ample kitchens.
Furniture is traditional in style and practical.
Four bedrooms
provide accommodation for an extended family or group of friends to stay in comfort. Bedrooms vary in size from small to mid-size. Two have double beds and two single beds.
There are three bathrooms and a living room and dining area with seats for all.
Outdoors offers terraces, outdoor dining table and chairs, pool and surrounding terrace and barbecue area.
Drive two minutes up the road to Earino taverna where everything in food from tasty crepes to full-blown Greek or Cretan meals are served well, with a smile, hospitality and an even more spectacular view.
Up and on past the church of Agii Apostoli, stuck out on a rock promontory dangling over the rural sweep of olive trees, vineyards and fruit trees on the hillsides. This is a scenic route to Agia Varvara from where you can go on to Zaros and the fascinating day drive to Amari.
Two storeys, four bedrooms, 2 with twin beds and 2 with double beds. One bedroom has en suite bathroom with bathtub and hydro-massage jets. 3 bathrooms in total in each house.
Fully equipped kitchens (full ovens and cooking utensils) downstairs, second kitchenette upstairs. TV with satellite reception, phone, ISDN internet (ADSL will be added when it reaches the village). Laundry facilities for both house are in a separate unit by the road entrance to the villas. Iron and ironing board.
Both houses have balconies and terraces to enjoy the open views down to the valley & village.
FACILITIES & SERVICES
Large swimming pool, shared between the 2 houses.
Central heating.
There is no air conditioning, the stone houses are naturally cool and benefit from above sea level altitude.
House cleaning every 2 days. Parking space.
Taverna in the village and second taverna up the hill (very short drive or 10 minute walk).
DISTANCES
In Kato Asites (on the edge of the village).
Venerato - 7km. Agia Varvara - 17 km.
Heraklion airport & town - 36 & 32 km.(Good road - 35-45 minutes)
Phaestos archaeological site - 45 km. (Good new road - 30-40 minutes)
Matala (south coast beaches) - 54 km. (Partly new road - 35-45 minutes) We recommend that you rent a car, other means of transport are
limited and infrequent.