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Villa with character and beautiful garden close to Rethymno

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Pool
Property grounds
Fridge, microwave, oven, dishwasher
Interior
Terrace/patio

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 8234 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Rethymno
  • Rethimno Kart
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Rethymnon Town Hall
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Rethymnon Venetian Port
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Chania (CHQ-Ioannis Daskalogiannis)
    ‪79 min drive‬

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About the area

Rethymno

Seaside stay .You'll find Mili Gorge and Horse Park Rethymno within 2 miles (3 km) of this villa. Platanes Beach and Blue Beach are also within 3 miles (5 km).
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What's nearby

  • Rethimno Kart - 7 min drive - 6.1 km
  • Rethymnon Town Hall - 8 min drive - 6.9 km
  • Rethymnon Venetian Port - 9 min drive - 7.6 km
  • Rimondi Fountain - 9 min drive - 8.0 km
  • University of Crete - 10 min drive - 9.1 km

Getting around

  • Ioannis Daskalogiannis Airport (CHQ) - 70 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Sky Park - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Skypark - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Ταβέρνα του Ζήση - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Baja Beach Club - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Upano - ‬6 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Villa with character and beautiful garden close to Rethymno


Villa Maria is an authentic large Greek house built of stone. The house is located around a courtyard with exotic tall trees and has a private swimming pool with a separate childrens pool, a pond and a separate BBQ area in the corner of the garden. This house is 200 years old and was recently very tastefully renovated. The property is walled so that life is lived on the interior of this house.

The house as a staircase on the other side in the garden which takes you to a separate studio.

The garden is beautiful, almost a small paradise. There are lounge chairs and parasols
Food is mostly prepared on the BBQ. The BBQ space has a large covered seating area where you can all enjoy a meal together.

Property manager

The Owner Vaggelis

Languages

English, Greek

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Property amenities

Pool/Spa

  • Private pool

Internet

  • Available in the villa: WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car recommended
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 3 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Fenced yard
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming cats and dogs only
  • One pet total (up to 22 lbs per pet)

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property
  • Note from host: Only allowed on the outside of the house

Services and conveniences

  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Safe

Location highlights

  • In a village
  • In the mountains
  • Near the sea

Things to do

  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Spelunking nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)

General

  • Garden
  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Unit size: 2,519 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Only dogs and cats are allowed
  • Maximum 1 (weight limit: 22 lbs per pet)
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, you can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.

Property Registration Number 00001424571

We should mention

  • Onsite cash transactions can't exceed EUR 500, due to national regulations. For more details, please contact the property using information in the booking confirmation.
  • To make arrangements for your pet, contact the property directly using the information on your booking confirmation.

Property is also known as

House Character Beautiful Garden Rethymno
Character Beautiful Garden Rethymno
House With Character Beautiful Garden
House With Character Beautiful
House With Character and Beautiful Garden Rethymnon
House With Character Beautiful Garden
House With Character and Beautiful Garden Private vacation home

Villa with character and beautiful garden close to Rethymno Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 61 out of 69 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 9 out of 69 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 69 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 69 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 69 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Nigel C.

Liked: Cleanliness

A special place, a mini-oasis

Everything about this villa was perfect. Location not far from the beaches and Rethymno, but remote in the hills, peaceful and idyllic. Vagilis and Pavlos were wonderful hosts, super-attentive and friendly, always responsive to any requests. The villa itself was quite unique stone house, which we loved, especially the outside space which was well designed with different areas and seemed like a mini oasis surrounded by palm trees and cacti, secluded and relaxing. Lovely views of the surrounding hills. And if you like cats, in the courtyard outside the villa, you will love it here!
Stayed 16 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sarah A.

Liked: Cleanliness

Hidden Oasis and cat heaven

The villa has a real wow factor with charismatic rooms that have been beautifully decorated and modernised. But it is the outdoor space that really impresses. The pool area is inviting but there is so much shade provided by the beautiful trees and shrubs that make the garden a real oasis. There is a lovely tranquility to the villa with the sounds of birds, sheep and chickens from the surrounding farmland. The courtyard to the front door is a magnet for the local cats and kittens which are adorable. The owners are cat lovers and feed the strays regularly. And so did we!! The owners are very friendly and helpful. You have to park your car in a car park area a short distance from the property which occasionally was full but we managed to find a space somewhere. A really enjoyable visit and we’d love to return.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joanne G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing Stay in a Fabulous Villa

We stayed for a fortnight at the beginning of July 2024, and can honestly say it was one of the best villas we have ever stayed in. There is loads of space and everywhere is beautifully furnished and decorated, and clean. The air conditioning in the bedrooms was excellent and unobtrusive. A good and well appointed kitchen with a good sized fridge/freezer. The pool was wonderful, with lots of lovely trees etc around to give a good mix of shade and sun. And the overall garden was great for lounging, eating, chilling. Great BBQ area too. The hosts were so attentive and welcoming, but not in any way overbearing. We didn't see them unless we needed help, and they were incredibly helpful and answered our questions so quickly. The hamlet location has stunning views and is lovely and quiet, but is only a 10 minute drive from the beach, shops, restaurants. And is only a 20 minute drive from Rethymno's brilliant old town (great for shopping and eating). We would definitely recommend it and we are planning on returning! A first class experience.
Stayed 14 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Peter D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great

Exactly as advertised. Lovely villa and location
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

nick f.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing week spent at Villa.

We loved staying in this unique villa, nicely quiet and secluded. All the family had a great time and the kids especially loved the pool. Lots of shaded areas if you want a break from the Crete heat. Owners were very friendly and helpful and were available to us throughout the week with any issues. Would recommend to anyone.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Katie S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Actual paradise!!

This villa is magical. It had everything we needed for 2 weeks of relaxing and exploring. As temperatures are soaring across the med, the coolest place to be is by Vaggellis and Pavlo’s pool! Such warm hosts- very kind and knowledgeable but totally unobtrusive. The garden is spectacular and we were lucky to see some rare cactus flowers in bloom. The location is a very quiet hamlet and a car is a must but it’s only a short drive from some fantastic places to eat, drink and enjoy. The villa itself is very comfortable and spacious. The best thing, being the total privacy of the pool and garden- our shy 7 year old couldn’t swim 2 weeks ago and now she’s a mermaid! Thank you so much V and P, we would love to come back some day
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Karine T.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing vacation house!

This beautiful house was a highlight of our vacation in Crete! The hosts were extremely helpful and available, and the home impeccably maintained. We had a perfect time, and such enjoyable moments spent in the exquisite garden. I highly recommend renting this property.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jane L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful Home

Our family of 6 adults and 2 children aged 9 and 6 stayed at beautiful Villa Maria for 4 nights. I wish we had stayed longer. The traditional stone house has an unusual design, with two bedrooms on the upper level but accessed by different stairs. One bedroom on the living space level and one bedroom with 2 single beds on the opposite side of the pool/garden. The house was cool with many interesting art pieces. The courtyard garden is absolutely amazing! We all enjoyed sitting under the umbrella eating, drinking, relaxing and playing cards. It’s a short drive to Rethymno shops, restaurants and the beach. Thank you Vaggelis and Pablo for your kindness. We all enjoyed our stay and meeting you both. I would definitely recommend Villa Maria to friends and family.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

William H.

Liked: Cleanliness

beautiful villa

The villa did not disappoint at all. Good location for the town, private, established, clean and pretty much perfect for us
Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tal Billis

Liked: Cleanliness

Secluded hideaway with beautiful garden

Wonderfully quiet house in a very small hamlet yet very short drive from Rethymno and easy access to beaches, restaurants, shops etc. The secluded courtyard garden really shows the time and affection that must have been spent on it and was a truly great spot to relax. Our kids loved it and the fish pond in particular (which you could also peer into from the living room). Spacious house with an interesting layout. It worked well for us as a family of 4 with 2 smallish children but would also work for larger groups or 2 or 3 couples. Very friendly owner and very smooth and uncomplicated reception process. Very many thanks to Vangelis and Pavlos for a wonderful stay and we hope to be back again soon!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Evaldas B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing Villa with character

Absolutely amazing Villa! You can feel effort and love the owners put in every detail of this property and garden. The hosts were very friendly and helpful. It's one of those places you want to come to.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

edward s.

Liked: Cleanliness

Charming historic hillside villa

Perfect place for a small family reunion. Tranquil beautiful garden with pool and views of orange trees. Owners were very friendly and helpful. Comfort beds, well-equipped kitchen. Short ride to beach. Would definitely go back.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Susi L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Best of old and new

Traditional stone buildings in quiet area lovingly transformed with modern conveniences. We loved being inside the house and in the garden. Trees, plants, and flowers made anywhere we sat, swam, or grilled refreshing and relaxing. The 2 hosts were the best.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Michael T.

Liked: Cleanliness

What a wonderful stay

We had an amazing time, and Vaggelis was friendly, helpful and even before our stay responded to our questions incredibly quickly. The house is amazing and exactly as described. The perfect get away for friends or family. The pool and garden area is exotic and peaceful and it is a wonderful place to relax. Thank you Vaggelis for looking after us so well.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Maz W.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect Cretian Getaway

We have just spent a fantastic fortnight at Villa Maria. The house itself is really beautiful and maintained to a really high standard. A mixture of well renovated old and modern to suit everyone. The pool and gardens are amazing - we spent most of our time relaxing watching the sparrows sleeping at night on the banana leaves! Vagellis and Pablo are fantastic hosts, and on hand for anything you need. Local restaurants and supermarkets are a 10-15 min drive to Rethymno. It was exactly the break we needed, thank you for having us!
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Simon V.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great villa spoilt by building work .

Villa marria was amazing clean ,modern and in a very beautiful spot just outside rethimno ,however the holiday was spoilt as they were laying the pathing outside our villa which meant jack hammers ,cement mixers ,cement lorries directly outside our windows from 7am until 4 pm .even by the pool there was constant hammering and machinery noise so no peace and quite in what is a lovely villa .on the wednesday of our holiday we couldnt leave the villa until 6pm as the were laying the slabs outside the front door and at night when the builders left all tools and slabs were left all over the place with wholes everywhere and no lighting so very dangerous .it would have been nice to have been told that the building work was commencing on our holiday dates so we could have changed venue.not a good holiday for this reason.

10/10 Excellent

Cath H.

Liked: Cleanliness

The Villa was beautiful. Great location for us. Plenty of space and facilities

The owner was really helpful and not intrusive We would happily stay again
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Eric Z.

Liked: Cleanliness

Holiday Oasis

This was a very unique property. A beautiful villa in the hills above Rethimnon with a courtyard which is your own private oasis. My family thoroughly enjoyed our stay and the activities in the area!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Chris D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Lovely property, excellent hosts

The property itself is lovely. The pictures don't do it justice because it is hard to capture how pleasant it actually is. We stayed with 2 families, a total of 7 people. There was plenty of space. My teenaged children were very pleased with the wifi, the pool, and the private space they had away from the adults. Our hosts were exceptionally kind and helpful. For example; I accidentally bumped our rental car, then I came outside and found our host cleaning and buffing the small dent in the car! They recommended an excellent more secluded beach, restaurants and were excellent hosts in every way. The property is in a tiny collection of 5 houses in the hills. It is a bit off the beaten path, and we liked this. It takes perhaps 15 minutes to get to central Rethimno by car. Best, Chris

10/10 Excellent

Andrew W.

Amazing villa with wonderful garden poolside center courtyard!

This villa is perfect for a larger group of up to 8 people. The hosts are very quick to respond and provided for everything. The villa itself has a historic feel to it, but it’s absolute gem is the Center courtyard which is perfect for entertaining a larger group or just enjoying the peace and tranquility solo while listening to the song of the many birds nearby. Little nooks and crannies mean you can relax by the fishpond, enjoy barbequeing, sitting poolside, or relaxing under the shade of the large umbrella while sipping a glass of wine with family and/or friends. I would recommend, and hope to return!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2019

10/10 Excellent

Lance Johnson

Tranquil country setting, yet only 10 minutes car ride from beach and local shops

We all loved the villa, which is spacious and comfortable, with real character. The Owner was charming and very helpful, ensuring our stay went smoothly. Giannoudi is in the hills above the outskirts of Rethymno and at the entrance to the spectacular Amari Valley. A great place for a peaceful stay but not far from everything you might need!
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2018

10/10 Excellent

Gertrud M.

Had a fantastic stay. Excellent property and location. The owners were really helpful and attentive

Highly recommend this
Stayed 14 nights in Jun 2018

10/10 Excellent

Aksel D.

Fantastic house

We loved the house and the pool. It was all fantastic. The rooms are lovely and a good size, and the outside space is great too. The kitchen has everything you could need. We had a perfect week's holiday here. We were 4 adults. Paulo and Vaggelis were really friendly and always on hand if we needed anything. Would definitely recommend staying here. You won't be disappointed.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2017

8/10 Good

Julien M.

I strongly recommend this house for anyone including families

The house is beautiful. Ideally located and the host is very kind. I can only recommend this house for anyone wanting to spend some quality time in Creta.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2016

10/10 Excellent

Ulrich B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Easter Short stay Crete

Every year we do the same! An short stay vacation at Easter time.For 2025 we choose this awesome villa from Vaggelis and Pavlos.Everything was perfect!I‘m sure, it wasn‘t the last time!Thx again to both of them
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025