Villa Zaimis
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The superb, contemporary Villa Zaimis sits just outside the beautiful city of Chania in gorgeous gardens. With five exceptional bedrooms, the villa sleeps ten g...
Read moreOverview
The superb, contemporary Villa Zaimis sits just outside the beautiful city of Chania in gorgeous gardens. With five exceptional bedrooms, the villa sleeps ten guests in luxurious comfort. Villa Zaimis boasts extraordinary contemporary architecture, exquisite interiors and plenty of the wow factor!
The nearest beaches to the villa are at the laid-back resorts of Kalamaki and Agii Apostoli. You will discover a fantastic range of restaurants, bars and taverns plus a variety of shops. It is a wonderful area where you can truly relax and easily explore the many charms of Crete. Just moments away, Chania Old Town is one of the most alluring, captivating towns of Crete. With picturesque, narrow alleys draped with colourful bougainvillea, a fabulous dining scene, atmospheric bars, the most amazing sunsets and gorgeous little boutiques lining the cobbled streets, you will quickly lose your heart and want to return time and time again. Crete is also home to three of the most sensational beaches in all of Greece, Balos Beach, Elafonissis and Falasarna. You really must try and visit at least one of them while you are staying at Villa Zaimis. The dramatic, mountainous interior landscape of Crete is also well worthy of exploration, remaining unspoilt and sprinkled with sleepy villages, incredible churches, imposing gorges and stunning valleys.
Villa Zaimis is very striking with sophisticated steel, wood and glass architecture. You will be constantly gazing around, noticing a new feature that impresses you. The villa is drowned in natural light, particularly though the central light dome but also through the walls of floor-to-ceiling windows and doors. It is built over five semi levels, sparing no expense and using the very best materials. Outside, the superb swimming pool is surrounded by a gorgeous terrace and stunning landscaped gardens which offer astonishing sea views. Guests enjoy total privacy and seclusion and also the services of an exceptional Concierge Team who are on hand to ensure that you enjoy the holiday of your dreams. They can arrange private chefs, transfers, excursions, supermarket deliveries, massage and much more.
The living areas are amazing in shape and style. They boast extraordinary light, gorgeous contemporary furnishings and a magical blend of simplicity, minimalism and sumptuous design. The villa’s Italian designed kitchen is a trendy space with the best stainless steel appliances where you or a hired chef can create delicious masterpieces using fresh local ingredients of the highest quality. It is a sociable space where guests can open a chilled bottle of Greek wine and keep the chefs in your group company. You can dine in style surrounded by vibrant modern art on the otherwise dazzling white walls, all the time enjoying the wonderful panorama. A lavish contemporary sofa, accent chairs and stools are perfectly placed to enjoy the spectacular views as well as a television should you need to chill a bit. Another living area leads to a terrace for alfresco dining. On a lower level you will discover an excellent games area with table football and a pool table so you will know where to find your teenagers if they are not in the pool. The design of the this magnificent building creates a huge, spectacular, seriously high atrium.
The bedrooms enjoy complete privacy from each other. The first master is incredibly romantic with a lavish kingsize bed, a sensuous jacuzzi tub where you can totally relax, a walk-in closet, a stereo sound system and astounding views through a very grand giant window. The second master sits on the highest level of the villa with a beautifully dressed queensize bed, an ensuite bathroom with a shower and a lounge area in a bay that opens out onto a fabulous terrace with breathtaking sea views. There are two further bedrooms that enjoy twin beds which can be set up as a large kingsize bed. They share an immaculate family bathroom. In addition, there is a separate guest suite which adjoins the back of the villa. This suite boasts a kitchenette and a bathroom as well as a queen bed. This is perfect for a couple that would like a little independence, perhaps grandparents.
Having looked around the seriously impressive interiors, it will be hard to imagine that the exteriors could match up to the quality and comfort but they do. The villa offers a series of beautiful terraces that sit carefully on the hilly landscape leading to the villa and pool. The stunning pool enjoys a jacuzzi section where the water cascades into the larger, almond shaped, deeper section. It looks even more wonderful at night when the lights come on. There are plenty of luxurious shaded spots if the sun becomes too much, all surrounded by towering palms and lush lawn. A gas barbecue is supplied for some alfresco dining under an ancient olive tree.
Villa Ziamis is joyful, imaginative and a totally secluded paradise which you will not want to leave. However, the charms of Chania Old Town, the glorious sandy beaches, the friendly tavernas and fine dining restaurants are all waiting for you to discover them.
What you should know…
- If you are heading into Chania for dinner, it is best to pre-book a dinner table though there are also plenty of walk-ins. We thoroughly recommend the rooftop terrace for dinner at Pallas if you manage to get a table and Tamam on one of the charming little passageways
- The main road towards Kalamaki has a number of small mini-markets but there are also two very large supermarkets including a LIDL very close to the villa
- It can be difficult to park in Chania Town so you may prefer to catch the bus
- There are many steps in this villa which may make it unsuitable for guests with mobility issues
Property Features
The Villa
Light and views of blue enter through the central light dome of the villa and the floor to ceiling windows. The living and dining areas combine simplicity and sumptuousness.
The 5 bedrooms have absolute privacy from each other due to the intricate plan of the villa.
Master 1: The joy of sensuousness. King size bed, Jacuzzi tub, and spectacular view.
Master 2: The joy of freedom. Queen size bed, shower room, sitting area. Its
large terrace boasts the most breathtaking view.
Bedrooms 3 and 4: 2 twin beds and 1 king and a queen size bed respectively. They share a full bathroom.
Guest Suite: A fifth bedroom is part of an adjoining suite, with its own kitchenette and bathroom.
Exterior grounds
A series of tended terraces lead up the hilly landscape to the house and pool. The large pool is exclusive to Villa Zaimis dwellers' pleasure. It is divided into two sections - a circular shallower jacuzzi whose water cascades into the larger almond shaped
deeper section.
The poolside and garden offer spots both of cool shade and radiant light, as well as privacy and an infinite view.
Additional Facilities
- Blackout curtains, blinds
- Children's play area
- Washing Machine
- Tumble dryer
- Air-conditioning
Location
About the surrounding area of Villa ZaimisVilla Zaimis enjoys a secluded position in an upmarket area just outside of Chania. It is moments from sandy beaches, wonderful restaurants and the stunning Venetian harbour of Chania. Watching the sunset by the old lighthouse is an truly unmissable experience, as is dinner in one of the rooftop or alley restaurants. Known as the Venice of the East, Chania Old Town is magical with unique shops lining its cobbled streets, a brilliant dining scene, trendy waterfront bars serving delicious cocktails and its famous Venetian harbour and imposing lighthouse. The harbour was originally built by the Venetians between 1320 and 1356 and is now a vibrant, cosmopolitan spot. The Egyptian lighthouse is much photographed. You can take a slow meander to the lighthouse to take in the stunning views of the harbour, the Old Town and the backdrop of the majestic White Mountains. On the waterfront, the Giali Tzamisi is the oldest Muslim building in Crete. The Turkish name is translated to ‘The Seaside Mosque’. It plays host to various cultural events and exhibitions. You will also enjoy many buskers on the streets playing a wonderful selection of music.
Villa Zaimis is very close to Agii Apostoli Beach and its natural park. The beach extends to Kalamaki, a very friendly, laid-back resort just outside of Chania. You will enjoy gorgeous sandy beaches, amazing restaurants and tavernas and some useful shops. There is even a huge LIDL close by for supplies. The beach restaurants are wonderful and generally always offer a glass of raki and some fruit or a mini pudding as a treat afterwards. There is a good range of restaurants, some serving traditional Greek specialities and others offering fine dining such Corinna Star at Corinna Mare in Kalamaki and the restaurant at the Domes Noruz Chania Hotel. You are very spoilt for choice if you decide not to cook in the villa!
Following the Minoan Palace of Knossos, the second most visited tourist attraction in Crete is the dramatic and imposing Samaria Gorge. It sits at the foothills of the White Mountains and is the longest and most famous gorge in Europe. Within the White Mountain’s National Park, it rises to an altitude of 1,230m, is 150m at its widest point and 3m at its narrowest and continues down to Agia Roumeli on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. The park and gorge offer protection to over four hundred and fifty species of plant and animal, of which seventy are endemic to Crete. This includes the rare kri-kri which are wild goats.
Though the four local beaches are wonderful, you may want to spend a day on the exotic, spectacular, famous beaches of Balos, Falasarna or Elafonissi. If you get time to visit Balos Beach, you will remember it forever. In the protected ‘NATURA’ area of Balos Bay, its glistening white sand and turquoise sea is incredible. Not far away is another Cretan wonder, Falasarna, another nestled lagoon with pool like waters and pink sand. It has been awarded the best beach of Crete and one of the top ten beaches in Europe. Elafonissi is equally wonderful and worth the drive.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Chania Daskalogianni Airport (CHQ)
(16-20 km) |
||
| Nearest Ferry Port |
Souda Port
(12 km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Daratso
(Under 1 km) |
||
| Nearest Town/City |
Chania
(5 km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Nikos Taverna
(Under 1 km) |
||
| Nearest Bar/Pub |
Bamboo
(Under 1 km) |
||
| Nearest Shop |
Koutoulas
(Under 1 km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
INKA
(Under 1 km) |
||
| Nearest Beach |
Kalamaki
(1 km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Heraklion
(Over 100 km) |
||
| Nearest Tennis | Syrios Village | ||
Region
Head to the West side of Crete to find some of the best beaches and most charming villages in the island. Indulge yourself by visiting the unique Balos lagoon and jumping into its turquoise waters, or have a truly Cretan dining experience in one of the many tavernas by the sea and taste the delicious seafood on offer.
Find more about Chania and the rest of the Southernmost island in Greece with our travel guide below.
Download our Crete Travel Guide >>
How to reach Chania
There are two ways to reach Chania: either by flight or by ferry.
By plane: Chania Airport (CHQ) is only a 20 minutes ride away from central Chania. During the summer months, frequents overseas and domestic flights are performed. In most of the cases, there are available buses that connect Chania city and most of the villas. You can also hire a car from one of the many rental companies at the airport, or alternatively get a taxi to bring you right to your doorstep.
By ferry: If you choose to do an island-hopping trip and use the ferry as a method of transportation, then the closest port is in Souda, only 8km from the centre of Chania. Only ferries from Piraeus in Athens or Heraklion in Crete. Heraklion port has a wider choice: you can also take a ferry from other Greek islands like Santorini, Mykonos or Paros, but you will have to take a longer bus ride to reach your villa. You can easily book your ferry tickets using the link below or the booking engine.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesVilla Zaimis is ideal for a family holiday. With five bedrooms, there may even be room for two families. The villa is contemporary and spacious. It enjoys a fabulous swimming pool, jacuzzi and a lovely garden. There are Blue Flag beaches within very easy reach of the villa. Two of the beaches enjoy volleyball courts for older ones. The water at these beaches is crystal clear and generally very shallow. There is a great choice of waterside tavernas and cafes.
Limnoupolis is a fun water park close to Chania boasting eleven exciting waterslides such as 100m giant slides, free fall slides, a black hole and triple twist slides, a kid’s pool and an artificial island. It also boasts a relaxing 130m lazy river, a huge swimming pool with a diving platform, a kiddie pool and a relaxation area.
Minoan’s World 3D Museum and 9D Cinema in Chania Town is popular. It is an immersive cinema where you can learn about the Minoan history while enjoying effects such as earthquakes and snow, bubbles and wind. There are many photo opportunities with murals in the background. The movie stars Zeus as a baby and as a God, abductions, flying too close to the sun and an eruption of the volcano in Santorini causing a devastasting tsunami that ended the Minoan era.
If you decide to visit Balos Beach, you can either drive or take a boat ride there. This is fun too. Just make sure you pack some refreshments and perhaps a beach parasol as there isn’t anything there to protect you from the sun.
The Botanical Park of Crete is a 20 hectare park, 18km from Chania. It boasts 150 species of fruit trees and hundreds of herbs, medicinal and ornamental plants that the Cretan mountains are famous for. It is home to many birds around the lake, butterflies, wild goat, hares, badgers, Cretan rock ferret, weasels and tree frogs. There is also a restaurant with amazing mountain views.
Lake Kournas is Crete’s largest freshwater lake and is fed by natural springs running off the Lefka Ori mountains. The water is 22m at its deepest and is a stunning turquoise colour. It is an excellent excursion with pedalos, lots of geese and terrapins and plenty of tavernas nearby. Close by is the Kanakis Olive Mill where you can learn all about the production of olive oil. You can taste the oil in the shop and pick up some souvenirs. You should also take a photograph with the 2000 year old olive tree outside.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Booster seat
- Mattress protector
- Baby bath
- Bath toys
- Bibs
- Changing mat
- Baby monitor
- Pushchair
- Potty
- Stair gates
- Bottle steriliser
- Plastic crockery
- Cot(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Water excursions/Boat trips
- Beach Nearby
- Walk to Village
- Walk to Restaurant
- <1hr to Airport
- Watersports
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Cooling Jacuzzi
- Games Room
- Indoor Games
- Table Football
- Pool/Snooker
- Home Cinema
- DVD
- Fenced Grounds
Services Available
- Catering Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Included
- Babysitting Available
- Meal delivery service
Oliver's Extras
- Pre-Stocked Fridge Available
- Yoga Classes Available
- Transfers Available
- Catering Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Included
- Babysitting Available
- Meal delivery service
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From pr...
Read moreExtras
Oliver's Extras
- Pre-Stocked Fridge Available
- Yoga Classes Available
- Transfers Available
- Catering Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Included
- Babysitting Available
- Meal delivery service
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport transfers
- Babysitting/childcare services
Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team.
Please note that all services are subject to availability and must be requested in advance and that due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. Prices are on request. We will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
Maximum 50 party guests. Cannot accommodate all 50 on site.
Catering as well as chef on site avai...
Read moreEvent information
Maximum 50 party guests. Cannot accommodate all 50 on site.
Catering as well as chef on site available. Menus can be discussed.
| Security deposit | €500 charged to client’s credit card before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | After 4:00 p.m. |
| Departure time | Before 11.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €500 charged to client’s credit card before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | After 4:00 p.m. |
| Departure time | Before 11.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Included in rental price |
| Heating costs included? | Included in rental price |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes and 6 day light cleaning also included. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Linen & towels included? | Included in rental price |
| Pets welcome? | Please contact owner |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outside only |
| Changeover day | Saturday preferred, but flexible out of high season |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights between June - Mid September, otherwise 4 nights |
| Tax | Not included in rental price |
| Internet access? | Complimentary Wi-Fi internet access included in rental price. It is good to note that the speed is dependent on local provider and technical issues may cause reduced speed or cut of service. |
| Insurance | It is recommended that all guests take out insurance to cover against potential cancellation and any accidental damage caused during your stay at the property. |
The Greek government requires owners to collect a Tourist Climate Tax, your property manager will collect this in cash:
March-October €10 per night per unit
November-February €4 per night per unit
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 8 people:
| Rental period | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 18th 2024 - Apr 1st 2025 | £2,006 | £2,507 | £3,510 |
| Apr 1st 2025 - Apr 29th 2025 | £2,492 | £3,114 | £4,359 |
| Apr 29th 2025 - Jun 24th 2025 | - | - | £4,359 |
| Jun 24th 2025 - Jul 15th 2025 | - | - | £5,758 |
| Jul 15th 2025 - Aug 26th 2025 | - | - | £8,088 |
| Aug 26th 2025 - Sep 23rd 2025 | - | - | £5,758 |
| Sep 23rd 2025 - Sep 24th 2025 | - | - | £4,359 |
| Sep 24th 2025 - May 22nd 2026 | £2,006 | £2,507 | £3,510 |
Prices based on an occupancy of 10 people:
| Rental period | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 18th 2024 - Dec 25th 2024 | £2,444 | £3,056 | £4,277 |
| Dec 25th 2024 - Apr 1st 2025 | £1,624 | £2,029 | £2,841 |
| Apr 1st 2025 - Apr 29th 2025 | £3,056 | £3,820 | £5,346 |
| Apr 29th 2025 - Jun 24th 2025 | - | - | £5,346 |
| Jun 24th 2025 - Jul 15th 2025 | - | - | £6,717 |
| Jul 15th 2025 - Aug 26th 2025 | - | - | £9,047 |
| Aug 26th 2025 - Sep 23rd 2025 | - | - | £6,717 |
| Sep 23rd 2025 - Sep 24th 2025 | - | - | £5,346 |
| Sep 24th 2025 - Dec 25th 2025 | £2,444 | £3,056 | £4,277 |
| Dec 25th 2025 - May 22nd 2026 | £1,624 | £2,029 | £2,841 |
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
How long have you owned the property?
10 years
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
The view, location, architecture, and old oliv...
Owner Profile
How long have you owned the property?
10 years
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
The view, location, architecture, and old olive trees in the garden.
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
Many. Some of our favorites are the intimate weddings that have been held there, including our own.
Have you ever had any famous guests staying?
Famous people in the business world.
What’s the strangest or most difficult guest request you’ve ever received?
A famous international company owner visited in her private jet (the first to arrive at the local airport) a year prior to booking for two weeks, to ensure the home smelt as she would like. Several other requests followed that we were amused to help out with. She not only came on her vacation, but also returned and asked to buy the property. We take all of the senses very seriously.
For anyone coming to stay is there anything in the surrounding area they should...
There are so many things to see and do that most guests return. Something for everyone, really.
Lastly, what insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
Agioi Apostoloi park and beaches, the small grocer's and butcher's shops in Galatas, Nikos taverna, Bigaza (best Turkish restaurant on the island) are all highlights and very close to Villa Zaimis.
Reviews
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An unbeatable location for a family holiday
Brilliant villa, facilities and location.
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Everything was perfect
Everything was perfect including working with Oliver’s Travels to secure the house; arrival day and the house itself. The photos were absolutely accurate - the house was as good as it looked on line
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Amazing Views of Chania
Amazing villa located in a quiet location, with amazing views towards Chania. The villa has two fantastic master bedrooms and then two smaller bedrooms within the villa, and then an annex with a separate bedroom. The kitchen is well equipped and we loved the gifts left when we arrrived. Their are a lot of steps in this villa which would be unsuitable for younger children. Our main area of surprise is the depth of the pool. Once off the steps going going into the pool everyone was unable to touch the pool floor, it is well over two meters, although great for jumping in off the platform, it was just too deep. There needs to be one table location where all guests can sit round and we had to relocate chairs to enable 8 people to be together.
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No Faffing!
Simple, accurate customer service, with no ‘faffing’ All descriptions are accurate and the outbound information is always timely.
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Fabulous!!
What else can I say but "wow!!" Villa Zaimis is by far the best we have stayed in, the facilities, cleanliness and decor are amazing. The view is pretty good too!! It was a real treat staying here especially with the added bonus of a daily cleaner!! We also had a wonderful BBQ cooked by Petros the chef who had rescued us on our arrival due to our directions not being very clear, they took us to Lidl!! At least we found the supermarket!!
The villa was ideally situated for getting into Chania and was only a short drive from the airport. A great week!!
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
