Villa Giannis
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Overview
Six-bedroomed Villa Giannis is a beautiful traditional Cretan villa, sitting pretty on the hillside and offering the most amazing views of the port city Heraklion and the Cretan Sea. Surrounded by trees, vineyards and a large garden, the peaceful and tranquil environment, as well as the privacy offered and spacious design, makes this villa an ideal holiday home for families, friends and couples alike.
The extensive landscaped grounds set the tone of this luxurious villa. With a private entrance leading up to the stone-walled property and grassy spots dotted with plants and shrubs, there’s plenty of places for children to play and you to unwind with your favourite holiday read. There are also two swimming pools – including one shallower pool for kids – a football and volleyball net and several loungers for some family fun or well-deserved R&R while soaking up the warm Mediterranean sun.
For romantic evenings, you can cook up a storm on the BBQ and then dine al fresco on the covered outdoor table and chairs, while small lights illuminate the property into the night. Inside, the luxury features continue with a modern fully-equipped kitchen and comfortable living space with a 52-inch flat-screen TV and cushioned sofas. In the colder months, you can make use of the heated under flooring and charming working fireplace. There are also tubs with jets in two of the four bathrooms for a serene spa-like feel. The villa sleeps up to twelve across its six stylish bedrooms.
The location of Villa Giannis is also perfect for exploring the beauties of Crete. You can take long walks through the vineyards and hills, or head to Houdetsi village with restaurants, cafes and small shops. A hiking trail takes you from Houdetsi to the neighbouring village Agios Vasilios, passing by a small gorge and the ancient monastery of Panagia Spiliotissa, part of which is built into a rock.
What you should know…
- It’s secluded and private. However, you’re within walking distance of the centre of Houdetsi, a beautiful village with restaurants, shops and cultural sites.
- The villa is perched into a hillside and has an idyllic rural location. To reach it easily and to explore more of the fantastic local area, like Heraklion, the capital of Crete, we recommend hiring a car.
This home is a part of our Great Value Collection!
Our great value homes:
- may be traditionally styled for a laid back feeling
- may have some simple amenities and features
- mean that you can enjoy top holiday destinations for less!
Property Features
Interior
-6 twin bedrooms (4 can be converted into doubles)
-4 bathrooms with showers (two of them also have spa tub with Jets)
-2 WCs
-Fully equipped kitchen
-Large open plan sitting dining room
Outside
-Private swimming pool 40 sqm
-Children’s’ pool 2.5 x 2m
-Sun beds and umbrellas
-Outdoor dining table
-Outdoor seating area
-BBQ
-Parking space
-Garden 2000sqm
-Football and volleyball field
Other
-Cooling system
-Floor heating
-Fireplace
-Satellite TV
-Home Cinema
-CD and DVD player
-Computer
-Internet Connection
-Washing machine
-Dishwasher
-Iron and ironing board
-Hair dryer
-Security system
-telephone
-Safe
-Baby cot and High Chair
-Espresso machine
-Microwave
- Use of Spa at extra cost
Location
About the surrounding area of Villa GiannisVilla Giannis is in Houdetsi, a beautiful village about 23km south of the city of Heraklion, Crete. It’s a peaceful spot that’s known for its wine with olive trees and vineyards and traditional Cretan music. Well worth a visit are the water fountain in the village centre and the folklore museum of music with traditional instruments from all over the world. There’s also a gorge leading to the Sacred Monastery of the Madonna nearby – magical natural scenery full of tall trees and plenty of running water.
For history lovers, if you drive 12km south-west of Houdetsi, you’ll reach the Monastery of Saint George, built around 1600. There’s also the impressive Monastery of Agarathos, 14km east which is considered one of the oldest monasteries in Crete or the castle of Nikiforos Fokas, 14km northwest.
In Heraklion itself, the capital of Crete, there’s plenty of things to see and do.
The Palace of Knossos, just outside the city, is a vast archaeological site dating back thousands of years to the Minoan civilization and includes frescoes and baths. Guarding the city’s Venetian port is the 16th-century Koules fortress, and there’s the Heraklion Archaeological Museum has an extensive collection of Minoan art. Heraklion isn’t all about out ancient sites though with top-notch restaurants serving Cretan cuisine, boutique shops and a lively nightlife. It’s also home to one of the richest markets in the Mediterranean where you can get traditional Greek products like olive oil, honey and herbs.
Heraklion’s bragging rights also continue with its serene beaches. The stretches of sand in this central part of Crete’s north coast range from the lively hangouts in Malia to the rugged bays of the deserted island, Dia. You can swim, snorkel, take part in water sports like sea kayaking and scuba diving or jump on a boat trip. Moreover, a modern golf course both for beginners and advanced players is not far away from the city of Heraklion, in the area of Hersonissos.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Heraklion
(24km) |
||
| Nearest Airport |
Chania
(166km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
x2
(2.4km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Choudetsi
(2km) |
||
| Nearest Beach |
Heraklion
(23km) |
||
| Sightseeing |
Knossos - ancient site
(17km) |
||
Region
On the northern coast, the thriving city of Heraklion is the perfect destination for visitors wishing to learn all about Crete’s incredible history whilst soaking up the hospitality and vibrancy of the island’s impressive capital.
Heraklion is also a wonderful gateway to the charming coastal village of Agia Pelagia, the popular resorts of Hersonissos and Kato Gouves, the nightlife of Malia as well as the stunning landscapes of the Psiloritis Natural Park.
The city’s heritage dates back thousands of years, as can be seen just south of Heraklion at the fascinating UNESCO World Heritage site, the Palace of Knossos, once the centre of Minoan civilisation. Keen historians should also visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion and Historical Museum of Crete.
Meanwhile, back in Heraklion’s old town, admire stunning views as you stroll along the Venetian fortifications dating back to the time when the island was under Venetian rule, then look out for beautiful architecture from the Ottoman Empire.
Shopping in Heraklion is a delight. Pick up Cretan delicacies at the bustling Central Market, then explore the heart of the old town with narrow lanes and grand squares, coming across little shops, boutiques and historic churches as well as cafes, restaurants and bars. In the height of the summer, embrace the city’s wonderful ambience with café terraces, outdoor theatre and bars and clubs near the waterfront.
Enjoy the hearty cuisine of Heraklion where traditional dishes are prepared using locally sourced ingredients such as dakos salad made with Cretan tomatoes, feta and olive oil or slow-cooked stamnagathi with wild greens from the island. Grilled octopus, Cretan fish soup and other seafood specialities are served with pride in tavernas and restaurants across the region.
Head to the family-friendly shores of Ammoudara beach with its blue-flag, sun-beds and beachside bars, also a popular spot for kite-boarding. A little further west is the picturesque fishing village of Agia Pelagia with another gorgeous beach, turquoise coloured water and tavernas overlooking the sea.
Venturing east instead, the popular tourist resorts of Hersonissos and Kato Gouves offer long sandy shores, summer sun-beds and a wealth of watersports as well as waterparks, boat trips, cafes, restaurants and bars. Nor forgetting the nightlife and beaches of Malia as well as the Minoan Palace of Malia, not far from the idyllic Potamos Beach.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesWith extensive grounds including a football and volleyball pitch, and a fantastic rural location with beautiful walking routes, Villa Giannis, the perfect villa for families with children.
One of the key advantages of this beautiful area in Crete too is that it offers numerous options for keeping children entertained, from calm swimming beaches to exciting ancient sites. Kids young and old can learn about the history of the glorious Minoan civilisation in the Palace of Knossos, just outside of Heraklion. If you have a smartphone, you can download the mobile app Kids Love Knossos, a series of audio stories about Knossos so they can listen while you’re there.
There are also plenty of opportunities to take part in water sports, or you can jump on a boat to explore the rugged coastline. For more family-friendly fun, there’s an aquarium a 15-minute’ drive west of Heraklion, alongside a labyrinth park with a maze to explore that’s 20 minutes away.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Child-Safe Pool
- DVD
Services Available
- Babysitting Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Babysitting Available
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 extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfill your requests!
| Departure time | Check out time is 11:00 |
| Arrival time | Check in from 16:00 |
| Energy costs included? | Energy costs are included in the rental fee |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Departure time | Check out time is 11:00 |
| Arrival time | Check in from 16:00 |
| Energy costs included? | Energy costs are included in the rental fee |
| Linen & towels included? | Linen & towels are included in the rental price |
| End of stay cleaning included? | End of stay clean is included in the price |
| Smoking Allowed? | Guests are requested not to smoke in the villa. |
| Insurance | It is recommended that all guests take out insurance to cover against potential cancellation, personal accidents and any accidental damage caused during your stay at the property. |
| Security deposit | A credit card number will be required at check in as form of security deposit. |
| Internet access? | Internet access is available at he villa |
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 12 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| Nov 15th 2024 - Nov 16th 2024 | £3,334 |
| Nov 16th 2024 - Dec 14th 2024 | £2,899 |
| Dec 14th 2024 - Dec 28th 2024 | £3,334 |
| Dec 28th 2024 - Jan 11th 2025 | £2,744 |
| Jan 11th 2025 - Mar 23rd 2025 | £2,899 |
| Mar 23rd 2025 - May 10th 2025 | £3,334 |
| May 10th 2025 - Jun 14th 2025 | £3,769 |
| Jun 14th 2025 - Jul 5th 2025 | £3,769 |
| Jul 5th 2025 - Aug 16th 2025 | £4,059 |
| Aug 16th 2025 - Oct 11th 2025 | £3,769 |
| Oct 11th 2025 - Nov 15th 2025 | £3,334 |
| Nov 15th 2025 - Dec 13th 2025 | £2,899 |
| Dec 13th 2025 - Dec 27th 2025 | £3,334 |
| Dec 27th 2025 - May 19th 2026 | £2,744 |
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.
Reviews
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Unique place to stay
Staying in Villa Giannis gave us the opportunity to meet the locals in Xoudetsi, a small village but very active. There are concerts once or twice a week and it is easy to get to know the locals. I felt that staying there gave us a unique cultural experience in Crete. I am hoping to go back in the future.
The house is amazing and very well taken care of. We stayed 9 of us in the house and there was plenty of space for everybody. The room acoustics of the living room are amazing, bring your guitar and a singer, totally recommended! -
Magical...
We were a family of 8, covering 3 generations from 2 to 65 years. Villa Selena sits majestically on a mountain surrounded by vineyards, with great views and seclusion, but within 30 minutes from beaches, Heraklion, the airport, waterpark, aquarium and other places of interest. It offers an exceptional amount of space indoors and extensive grounds outdoors. It is very well appointed with all the facilities you could possibly want and more - e.g. even a telescope to view the night sky! To cap it all the owner and the housekeeper couldn't be more helpful and attentive - meeting us at the airport, making dinner one night and fresh jam one morning. There are good quality towels, bedding and pool towels changed every couple of days, and your laundry is done for you! You do need a car to get around. Highly recommended for families and large groups!!!
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
