Rethymno Sacred Monastery of Arkadi Hotels

"We had the most amazing stay from start to finish. We got there after midnight due to flight times, but were offered a guide to get us there or clear directions with a code for a key box. When we got there, the property had outside lights to guide us in and a fridge with a home cooked meal in, snacks, wine, olive oil and fruit. :-). So welcoming. The next day when we woke up we realised how beautiful the villa was and the views are just stunning. There is a twisty mountain road to get up to the villa but it’s very quiet. You’ll see more goats than cars. Take your time and enjoy the scenery and all is well. The pool was spacious and clean. The bed was comfortable, the showers wonderful and it was very well equipped. The villa is within half an hour of Rethymno which is delightful. We were also within an easy drive of Knossos, Chania, Heraklion and Lake Kournas. One day however, we just stayed home and enjoyed the relaxation of the villa. :-)As we had a super late flight home and as no one was due to arrive the day we left, our hosts kindly agreed that we could stay way beyond the check out time and enjoy our last day without rushing. We stayed until 4pm and we are so appreciative of the kindness. We even received a parting gift. I cannot recommend Harkia Villas enough. Simply stunning. X. "

"This modern villa is spotlessly clean throughout with panoramic views in every direction. Even from inside the Villa the view through the windows changes each day like a living painting. It’s spectacular. The grounds are completely enclosed and child friendly with plenty of space for kids to play and adults to chill. The gardens are very well maintained and watered, if you’re from the UK think of a national trust garden with Mediterranean plants. It is also very well lit in the evenings with the BBQ dining area overlooking the top half of Crete (not exaggerating) being one of the gardens hi-lights.The Villa feels secluded in it’s own hillside setting but is at most a 7 minute drive back down to shops, bars, restaurants and the beach. So on those sweltering afternoons where the heat of the coast is getting too much, in 10 minutes you can be in your own gorgeous pool with a mountain breeze. Perfect!Eleni deserves her own 5* review but I’m running out of space! A flawless host who is kind, caring, quick to respond to any messages and super friendly. Thank you Eleni! There are no downsides, the beds are comfy, the pool is sparkling, the garden is stunning, the water pressure is great, the wifi is fast, I could go on and on.Stop searching now and book this place, you wont regret it and you’ll never want to leave.Thank you so much! From Jim and family-UK"