Crete

Crete

Fiercely independent Crete, Europes first advanced civilization is steeped in Homeric history and culture. This mountainous island has been the home of many a family vendetta. Rich fertile plains laden with fruit, hidden villages steeped in folklore, long sandy beaches fringed with palms are all to be discovered on Greece's largest island.Exquisite Venetian and Turkish buildings, winding lanes and colourful markets characterize the historical port town of Chania. Visit the Palace of Knossos, home of the legendary Minotaur, trek through the 18 kilometre Samaria Gorge, explore fantastic mountain-biking territory and enjoy a variety of water sports. In the evenings, sample great Cretan cuisine and local wines at any number of tavernas

FEATURED VILLAS IN Crete
ALL VILLAS IN Crete

The Pretty Good Guide

  • Map
  • Video
  • Transport to greece
  • Transport in greece
  • Boat hire
  • Where to Eat
  • Local beaches
  • To-do
  • Phone numbers
  • Important
 

Pretty good recommendations

Shopping

Agios Nikolaos-Kavousi Village

There are a number of supermarkets in the town of Aghios Nikolaos. The larger ones are AB and Lidl. It is worth noting that AB is open from 8am – 9pm Monday to Friday; and Saturday from 8am – 8pm. It is closed on Sundays. Lidl is open on Sundays from 10am – 4pm.
The local village of Kavousi has a couple of mini markets on the main road and in the village itself. Also on the road is an excellent bakery. The shop Evotry has some wonderful traditional Cretan products.

Panorama Cafe-Restaurant

Kavousi (Ierapetra)

On the road to Mochlos from Kavousi has excellent
food and wonderful views. Chef Nektarios Trahanakis prepares great dishes based on traditional Crete recipes.
Mob: (+30) 697 7657946
https://www.facebook.com/Cafe-Restaurant-Panorama-754424927931122/

Golden Sun Restaurant

Bali

A traditional tavern with friendly staff and great atmosphere. It serves pizza, greek traditional dishes and grill.
Tel: (+30) 2834 094133
https://taverna-golden-sun-sopasis.business.site

Shopping

Chania-Tavronitis-Kolymbari

In the village of Tavronitis, there is a superb bakery – reputedly the best on Crete. There is also a mini-market here selling most essentials. In Kolymbari there are shops, supermarkets, banks etc.

Symposium Restaurant

Platanias

Mediterranean, European and traditional Cretan cuisine in an open air restaurant specializing in great wine.
Tel: (+30) 2821 060545
https://www.symposium.com.gr

Tholos Love Beach Cafe ~Restaurant

Tholos Beach

This family friendly tavern serves simple Greek dishes and fresh fish. Great play area for children.
Mob: (+30) 694 8783231
https://love-tholos.business.site

Shopping

Rethymnon-Bali

In Bali village which is located down at the sea 5 mins drive away, there are a variety of shops, bakeries, cafes, mini markets, butcher shop, pharmacies and a medical centre.
In Perama, a small town between Rethymnon and Bali (on the right of the national road) there are very nice bakeries (the "galaktoboureko" is made with fresh milk) and pastry shops. You will also find local rusks, local cheese etc.
Major supermarkets are in Rethymnon and Heraklion.

Gorgona Taverna

Bali

Serving Greek and Mediterranean cuisine dishes. Very friendly staff and relaxing atmosphere.
Tel: (+30) 2834 094216
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Gorgona-Hotel-Bali-Creta/101359116875335?hc_ref=ARR_QCQHx5i6fLgO0_s-lxIABDeich5eGfUFHSCI5s7bmAtI1aVM806dAL2BP1bEYqI&fref=tag

Argentina Kapenekis Fish Restaurant

Kolimvari

A fish restaurant with great views from its balcony to a small port. The fish is always fresh and at the best prices since the owner is also a fish wholesaler.
Tel: (+30) 2824 022243
https://www.facebook.com/ArgentinaKapenekis/

Belvedere Taverna

Platanias

Taverna offering traditional Cretan dishes and live music. They are known for their Greek ‘stifado’ dish and offer a fine wine selection.
Tel: (+30) 2821 060003
https://restaurantbelvedere.wordpress.com

Pixida Taverna

Kavousi (Ierapetra)

This tavern offers traditional Greek dishes in a friendly atmosphere. Also great views to the sea.
Tel: (+30) 694 1464024

 

 

 

Psaropoula Taverna

Bali

Serving fresh sea food, fish and traditional dishes as well. Great views over the bay and very friendly staff.
Tel: (+30) 2834 094241
Mob: (+30) 693 715 8210
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Psaropoula-Taverna-Bali/331850436902985 

Synolakis Taverna

Bali

The taverna is located on the right side of the national road very close to Bali (around 5 min), between Rethymnon and Bali. Excellent food. Perfectly cooked lamb, greek salads and doner kebabs are their specialities.
Tel: (+30) 2834 094228
https://www.facebook.com/tavernasynolakis

Diktina Restaurant

Kolymbari

It has a wonderful view over the harbour and is a great spot to enjoy an ouzo and some meze (little dishes). Also serves Greek dishes, fresh sea food and fish.
Tel: (+30) 2824 022611
https://www.facebook.com/Diktina-Restaurant-302039946632363/

The Well of the Turk Restaurant

Chania

A beautiful building with a great atmosphere and excellent dishes. The selection of dishes is an array of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern specialties, flavors of Greece, Morocco, Egypt, Turkey and Lebanon.
Tel: (+30) 2821 054547
http://welloftheturk.gr

Keep an eye out for our trusted mark in the windows of restaurants, bars and tarvenas. This sticker reveals places we highly recommend, so you dont miss out on any local secrets.

Pretty local beaches

 

Pretty good things to do

Psira Islet

It is a small uninhabited island. A Minoan settlement of 15-20 acres has been found in Psira, being one of the most important sites in Crete.

Spinalonga Island

The historical island of Spinalonga was once a leper colony. You can take a boat trip from Elounta and Plaka to Spinalonga to explore for the day.

Crissi Island or Gaidouronisi (Donkey island)

From the town of Ierapetra, small ferries take you across to Chrissi Island with its translucent water and astonishingly beautiful beach made of fine pearly shells.

Vronta, Kastro and Azoria archaeological site

Most of the visible remains on the site belong to a "Dark Age" settlement.

Olivetree of Kavousi

The tree is estimated to be 3250 years old, dating it back to the Post-Palatial Minoan Period and has been classified as ‘monumental’ by the Association of Cretan Olive Municipalities. 

The Palace of Knossos

The Palace of Knossos was the center of the Minoan civilization and capital of Minoan Crete.

 

Pretty useful phone numbers

General

Pretty Greek Villas:
Tel: (+30) 2696 061414 or (+30) 211 7803203

 

 

Health

Pharmacy & Doctor:
Located in the village of Platanos about 2kms from Kavousi.
Tel: (+30) 2822 041190

 

Emergency

Local Tourist Police:
Tel: (+030) 2894 026900

Local Police Station:
Tel: (+030) 2894 022251

Emergency call:
112

Police:
100

Fire:
199

Doctor SOS:
1016

Road Assistance:
10400(ELPA)

 

 

 

Pretty important

Toilets

Greece sewerage operates on a septic tank which is the reason for the seas being so clean. However, this means that you CANNOT put any toilet paper, sanitary towels or baby nappies down the toilet. If you do, it can cause serious blockage requiring a plumber. Please remember to put all paper etc in the bin provided next to the toilet. We do not like to deduct from a security deposit but if the plumber is called and it is because paper has been put into the toilet during your stay, the cost of the repair will need to be deducted from your security deposit.

 

Suntan lotions

Some suntan lotions and oils contain a dye that leaves a permanent orange stain on towels, linens and pool liners. Please avoid using these suntan products because most villa owners will now request to deduct from the security deposit in order to replace items that have been dyed. When using the pool, please shower before entering.

 

Water

The tap water inside the villa IS drinkable. The villa has a dual water system – excellent quality drinking water inside the villa. The garden and pool use a separate system with lower-grade quality water which is not drinkable. Since water is scarce in the summer in Greece, please use only what you need.

 

Air-conditioning

Your villa has air-conditioning throughout. Please close all doors and windows when in use. Some villas have a system where if a door or window is left open, the air-con will not work so please check this first if you are experiencing problems.

 

Hot water

This is supplied by solar panels so there is constant hot water with no need to use any switches in the electricity panel.

 

Dishwasher

Most villas will have a dishwasher. Please rinse plates before putting them inside

 

Laundry

The washing machine is in the utility room. Please use the drying racks in the garage area or by the barbecue area. Iron and ironing board are also provided.

 

Hairdryer

Located in the wardrobe of the master bedroom

 

Plastic Glasses Pool/Jacuzzi

Please use only plastic glasses by the pool and Jacuzzi areas and hand wash these after use. The dishwasher temperature ruins the plastic.

 

Barbecue

A gas barbecue is available at the back of the property. To operate, turn on gas canister. Push in hob control buttons, turn clockwise keeping button pushed in. The ring will ignite. When you have finished please turn off gas canister.

 

Shutters & Doors

Cream sandbags are provided to anchor shutters and doors when open. Please use them always to prevents doors or windows slamming in the wind.

 

Cleaning Schedule

The villa will be cleaned mid week and will include change of linen, towels and pool towels. 

 

Induction Hob

Please lift pots and pans on and off the glass induction hob. If you drag, the surface will be scratched. The pans under the sink are for cooking with. The copper pans are for display purposes only.

 

WIFI/TV/DVD

All provided. WIFI is adequate for emails and surfing. It is best to download movies prior to your holiday and bring with you.

 

Animals

All villas are situated in the countryside so if screen doors or shutters have been fitted please use them so that unwanted animals don’t get inside the house. The villas are all thoroughly cleaned before arrival but it is still possible that you may see the odd spider, mice, rat, scorpion, cockroach, snake or lizard inside. If you do and think it is a problem, please let us know so that we can deal with it straightaway. Wasps – it is impossible to know in advance whether wasps are going to be prevalent in a particular location or not. If you do find that wasps are a nuisance, burning Greek coffee on a plate seems to keep them away.

 

Taxis and Porters

 Taxis, porters and car hire are not included in the price of your villa. Please settle up directly with your driver, porter or car hire representative. When departing from your villa, if you require a taxi or porter, please ring or email us 24-48hrs in advance to arrange.
If you pre-book a taxi and do not notify us to cancel it, we will deduct this from your security deposit. Please note that we need to receive the cancellation in writing 24 hrs at least before the time you have booked the taxi. For airport transfers, we need at least 1 month’s notice in July/August and at least 2 weeks notice in all other months so that your booking can be replaced.

Security

Greece is still generally a very safe country. However, when you are not at your villa please close windows and lock the doors. A safe is provided for your valuables.

 

Garbage

Please dispose of your garbage regularly because the high temperatures can attract vermin if left for too long. Unfortunately, very few areas of Greece have recycling.

 

Breakages

It is very rare for us to deduct money from a security deposit and we do not deduct money for the odd glass, cup or plate that might get broken. However, if you do happen to break or damage something please let us know.

 

Departure Time

At the end of your holiday, please vacate your villa by 10:00hrs unless we have agreed a later time with you. If the housekeeper is not there when you leave, please leave keys on dining table.

 

 

Transport to greece

There are two main airports in Crete - Chania and Heraklion

It is essential that you inform us of your flight details in your 'Manage Your Booking' section to our website. We sent you your login information at the time of booking. If you require your access codes, please contact one of the PGV team. arrivals@prettygreekvillas.com or search your emails for Reservation Link and Arrival Guide.
Three good websites for flights from the UK are
www.travelsupermarket.com 
www.flightcomparison.co.uk 
www.charterflights.co.uk
For non-UK flights, a good website is 
www.edreams.com
A good UK flight agent is 
Scott at Belgrave Travel on 01708 380357 or 
Barry Lewis at Charter Flights on 02087 140 025 
or email him barry@charterflights.co.uk
Please contact one of the PGV team for advice about where to book flights.

It is essential that you inform us of your flight details in your 'Manage Your Booking' section to our website. We sent you your login information at the time of booking. If you require your access codes, please contact one of the PGV team. arrivals@prettygreekvillas.com or search your emails for Reservation Link and Arrival Guide.
There are two main airports in Crete - Chania and Heraklion.
Chania Airport is serviced by charter flights, schedule flights and low budget flights.
Three good websites for flights from the UK are
www.travelsupermarket.com www.flightcomparison.co.uk www.charterflights.co.uk
A good UK flight agent is 
Scott at Belgrave Travel on 01708 380357 or 
Barry Lewis at Charter Flights on 02087 140 025 or 
email him barry@charterflights.co.uk
For non-UK flights, a good website is 
www.edreams.com
Easyjet and Ryanair also fly to Chania 
https://www.easyjet.com/en

It is essential that you inform us of your flight details in your 'Manage Your Booking' section to our website. We sent you your login information at the time of booking. If you require your access codes, please contact one of the PGV team. arrivals@prettygreekvillas.com or search your emails for Reservation Link and Arrival Guide.
There are two main airports in Crete - Chania and Heraklion.
Heraklion Airport is serviced by charter flights, schedule flights and low budget flights.
Three good websites for flights from the UK are
https://www.travelsupermarket.com  
http://www.flightcomparison.com
A good UK flight agent is 
Scott at Belgrave Travel on 01708 380357 or 
Barry Lewis at Charter Flights on 02087 140 025 or 
email him barry@charterflights.co.uk
For non-UK flights, a good website is www.edreams.com

Fly to Athens International Airport

It is essential that you inform us of your flight details in your 'Manage Your Booking' section to our website. We sent you your login information at the time of booking. If you require your access codes, please contact one of the PGV team. arrivals@prettygreekvillas.com or search your emails for Reservation Link and Arrival Guide.
Three good websites for flights from the UK are
www.travelsupermarket.com 
www.flightcomparison.co.uk 
www.charterflights.co.uk
For non-UK flights, a good website is 
www.edreams.com
A good UK flight agent is 
Scott at Belgrave Travel on 01708 380357 or 
Barry Lewis at Charter Flights on 02087 140 025 
or email him barry@charterflights.co.uk
Please contact one of the PGV team for advice about where to book flights.

Fly to Chania airport

It is essential that you inform us of your flight details in your 'Manage Your Booking' section to our website. We sent you your login information at the time of booking. If you require your access codes, please contact one of the PGV team. arrivals@prettygreekvillas.com or search your emails for Reservation Link and Arrival Guide.
There are two main airports in Crete - Chania and Heraklion.
Chania Airport is serviced by charter flights, schedule flights and low budget flights.
Three good websites for flights from the UK are
www.travelsupermarket.com www.flightcomparison.co.uk www.charterflights.co.uk
A good UK flight agent is 
Scott at Belgrave Travel on 01708 380357 or 
Barry Lewis at Charter Flights on 02087 140 025 or 
email him barry@charterflights.co.uk
For non-UK flights, a good website is 
www.edreams.com
Easyjet and Ryanair also fly to Chania 
https://www.easyjet.com/en

Fly to Heraklion airport

It is essential that you inform us of your flight details in your 'Manage Your Booking' section to our website. We sent you your login information at the time of booking. If you require your access codes, please contact one of the PGV team. arrivals@prettygreekvillas.com or search your emails for Reservation Link and Arrival Guide.
There are two main airports in Crete - Chania and Heraklion.
Heraklion Airport is serviced by charter flights, schedule flights and low budget flights.
Three good websites for flights from the UK are
https://www.travelsupermarket.com  
http://www.flightcomparison.com
A good UK flight agent is 
Scott at Belgrave Travel on 01708 380357 or 
Barry Lewis at Charter Flights on 02087 140 025 or 
email him barry@charterflights.co.uk
For non-UK flights, a good website is www.edreams.com

 

Transport in greece

Car Hire in Crete

The majority of our villas on Crete require car hire. Guests travelling from outside the EU need an international driving licence and their normal domestic driving licence in order to rent a car.
Please enquire - arrivals@prettygreekvillas.com 00302117803203

Car Hire in Crete

The majority of our villas on Crete require car hire. Guests travelling from outside the EU need an international driving licence and their normal domestic driving licence in order to rent a car.
Please enquire - arrivals@prettygreekvillas.com 00302117803203

 

Recommend boat hire

Please reserve your boat hire through the 'Manage Your Booking' section to our website. If you require your access codes, please contact one of the PGV team.
arrivals@prettygreekvillas.com.

Boat Hire

The boat hire company is located at Bali Beach which is between Chania and Heraklion. 
No licence is required to hire a boat. 
All boats are with tiller steering

 

Boat TypePrice/hourPrice/day
10 HP 4.5 Metre (4 pax)€40€85
18 HP 5 Metre (6 pax)€45€120
Jet Ski€45 for 15 min (price includes petrol).N/A

Please reserve your boat hire through the 'Manage Your Booking' section to our website. If you require your access codes, please contact one of the PGV team.
arrivals@prettygreekvillas.com.

Boat Hire

The boat hire company is located at Bali Beach which is between Chania and Heraklion. 
No licence is required to hire a boat. 
All boats are with tiller steering

 

Boat TypePrice/hourPrice/day
10 HP 4.5 Metre (4 pax)€40€85
18 HP 5 Metre (6 pax)€45€120
Jet Ski€45 for 15 min (price includes petrol).N/A