Villa Idi: pure relaxation in the heart of Crete – Home 193571 Villa
- 3 bedrooms
- 8 sleeps
- 6 nights min stay
Villa Idi: pure relaxation in the heart of Crete – Home 193571
- Villa
- 3 bedrooms
- sleeps 8
- 6 nights min stay
Key Info
- Beach / lakeside relaxation
- Nearest beach 25 mi
- Swimming pool
- Child Friendly
- Car essential
- Air conditioning
- No pets allowed
- Private garden
Description from owner
Description
Serene place in the delightful Amari Valley. An idyllic rural retreat with private pool.
Overlooking the terracotta rooftops of the village of Amari, Villa Idi can accommodate up to eight guests comfortably. The two-storey property has an interior area of 140 square metres, a comfortable living room, kitchen and dining areas, three bedrooms (comprising double and single bed options), and two bathrooms.
THE VILLA
Villa Idi is a traditional stone-built dwelling and was the former home of the owner’s grandparents. A typical rural residence built in the mid-1800s, today the villa exudes a unique charm, with its sensitive renovation carefully blending original features with contemporary comfort.
With spectacular views across the Amari Valley to Mount Ida, and a location that guarantees peace and tranquility, Villa Idi offers guests that most elusive of experiences - a beautiful refuge in which to unwind and recharge, enriched by the traditions of "the real Crete".
The property has been in the owner’s family for generations. In his childhood, Manolis spent his summer holidays here with his “papou” and “yiayia” (grandfather and grandmother). Decades later, Manolis restored the building for the sake of those sweet summers and transformed it into one of Crete’s most delightful and sought-after holiday homes.
Amari village ('Nefs Amari') is a small traditional village in the heart of Rethymno province in central Crete. A 40-minute drive south of Rethymno town, Villa Idi is set on high ground just below village’s Venetian church with marvelous views across the Amari Valley to the highest mountain in Crete - Mount Ida (Psiloritis).
The interior of Villa Idi comprises many traditional furnishings and historical artefacts - including wood-burning fireplace - with a fully-equipped contemporary kitchen, central heating, air-conditioning and modern appliances. Capacity may be extended to nine guests if required. Wi-Fi is available throughout the property and the living room features a flat-screen TV and a device-compatible DVD/CD player/home cinema system.
The villa's terrace comprises a private swimming pool and sunbathing area with sunbeds. With superb views to Mount Ida and across the valley, the terrace includes BBQ facilities and a dining area.
Villa Idi is a unique property in the region, combining luxury and comfort unparalleled in the Amari Valley. The village of Amari, located centrally in the Valley, is ideal for hikers and visitors wishing to explore the landscape and surrounding communities.
Villa Idi has belonged to the owner's family for more than 150 years. From its earliest times, the house was a joyful meeting point of the local community. The decoration of the villa reflects its valuable heritage including precious heirlooms and unique pieces of embroidery made by the owner’s mother and grandmother.
Equidistant from Crete's north and south coasts, Villa Idi is perfectly placed, allowing guests easy access to the south coast's beautiful (and less-used) beaches, as well as the more developed north coast. The Old Town of Rethymno is less than an hour's drive away, so visiting this popular location - one of the most intact medieval towns in Greece - is easy.
GUEST SERVICES
The villa is looked after by "Mrs Rumy" (pronounced "roomy") who lives nearby and she is available to take care of any guests’ needs, including changing of linen and cleaning services. As a highly skilled cook, Mrs Rumy also offers guests an exclusive range of authentic Cretan and Mediterranean dishes. All the meals provided are homemade, using fresh seasonal ingredients, all from local suppliers. Prices for meals available on request
CHILDREN
For youngsters and the young at heart, Villa Idi has a range of toys, games, books and movies to choose from. Baby cots and highchairs are available. The village has a basketball and volleyball court plus open spaces for games, and the lack of traffic in the village offers a safe and friendly environment for children to explore.
LOCATION INFO
The Amari Valley lies between two mountain ranges - Mount Ida to its east and the Kedros range to the west. The Valley is one of a few regions of Crete where the traditional Cretan rural way of life is still present. It is a place of unique nature and of cultural traditions which are central to the lives of its people today.
The village of Amari is set on the eastern slope of Samitos mountain. Peaceful and with little traffic entering this tiny hamlet (average resident population 200), the only sounds likely to break the silence are the tinkling of goat bells and the ringing of the village’s church bells.
Surrounded by ancient olive groves, vineyards and citrus orchards, the area is a gentle hiker’s paradise. The nearby landscape, dotted with tiny, often hidden, byzantine chapels, is a joy to explore by foot, while the Amari Valley lends itself to lazy exploration by car along its latticework of beautiful tree-shaded lanes and mountain paths.
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Families
- Great for children of all ages
- No pets allowed
- 2 Cribs
- High chair
Bed & bathroom
- Bedroom 1: Full bed
Bedroom 2: Full bed
Bedroom 3: Full bed 2 Twin beds - 2 Full baths
Amenities
- Wireless Internet
- Air conditioning
- Private outdoor pool (unheated)
- Mountain Views
- Private garden
- Grill
- Patio
- Solarium or roof terrace
- Balcony or terrace
- Bicycles available
- Internet access
- Central heating
- Fireplace
- Safe
- Stove
- Fridge
- Freezer
- Microwave
- Toaster
- Kettle
- Dishwasher
- Washing machine
- Iron
- High chair
- TV
- Satellite TV
- DVD player
- Stereo system
- Linen provided
- Towels provided
- Housekeeping Included
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Access
- Parking
- Secure parking
- Not suitable for wheelchair users
Getting around
Interaction with guest
Policies
- Payment
- This rental can only be paid for online through FlipKey using your credit/debit card or PayPal (never by bank or wire transfer).
- Smoking
- No smoking at this property
Cancellations
Change of plans? No problem. You could receive a partial or full refund, depending on when you cancel.
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Booking confirmed |
100% refund within 24 hours after booking (provided the stay is at least 60 days away).
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24 hours after booking |
50% refund of the amount paid (minus the booking fee*) if cancelled at least 4 weeks before check-in.
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4 weeks before |
25% refund of the amount paid (minus the booking fee*) if cancelled at least 2 weeks before check-in.
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2 weeks before |
No refund if cancelled less than 2 weeks before check-in.
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Check-in date |
* The booking fee is stated in the cancellation policy information on the payment page. This fee helps us run our secure platform and enables us to provide 24/7 customer support
House rules
Usual check in / out at 4.00pm / 10.00am. Any other time is possible (no extra cost) depending on the schedule of previous / next bookings.
The villa might not be suitable for people of restricted mobility. There are stairs, no lift and no wheelchair access. Please check with the owner.
All kids are welcomed.
Smoking allowed only outside.
Guests are encouraged to recycle using the special bins provided on site
About the owner
Manolis P.
Tourist License
MHTE:1041K91002894301
- Calendar last updated:
- 08 May 2024
- Years listed:
- 12
- Based in:
- Greece
- Overall rating:
Languages spoken: English, Spanish
These are the details provided by the business owner.
Business Name
Business Address
Business Telephone
Business Email
Other Applicable Information
Map
Reviews
Excellent
– based on 41 reviews
Excellent
41 reviews
- Excellent
- 41
- Very Good
- 0
- Average
- 0
- Poor
- 0
- Terrible
- 0
“Wonderful villa in the middle of olive grooves with mountain view”
If you want to see a region rather unknown of Crete and you are looking for peaceful holidays then Amari is the right choice. The villa Idi is an authentic greek house with a wonderful view on the Psi… More
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on all reviews.
“Lovely Villa in non-touristy mountain village”
We were spending three weeks in Crete and spent 4 nights in Villa Idi in the mountains overlooking Mt Idi, the tallest mountain in Crete...still showing some slivers of snow. The villa has a terrace … More
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on all reviews.
“A stunning villa in a stunning location.”
Sadly we only stayed for 2 nights. 2 of us in a villa for 8 was an indulgence between the beaches of the south and the beaches of the west, so we didn't have time to immerse ourselves in the full… More
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on all reviews.
“Perfect villa in a majestic, fascinating area of Crete”
We did not want to leave this wonderful villa and its surrounding landscape! Villa Idi is a true gem that we are so glad to have discovered. It has ample space for families and groups, yet is cosy fo… More
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on all reviews.
“Memories from Amari”
Our third year at Amari Villas over and we are still mesmerised by the panoramic mountain views, beautiful sunsets and the quite nature of village life and sheep bells. Manolis and the most excellent … More
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on all reviews.
“Peaceful paradise in the heart of Crete”
We were recommended Villa Idi by friends who have stayed several times, so we expected it to be great. It was so much better. A view out over the lush Amari valley to the drama of the mountains, the sounds of birds and goat bells, amazing walks along winding stone paths, gigantic ancient olive trees and hidden Byzantine chapels. Manolis was incredibly helpful and hospitable and Rumy, who lives on-site is an amazingly good cook, who can provide the best sort of local-produced food for any number of guests. I can't recommend this place enough for anyone who wants to experience Crete away from the crowds and to appreciate the extraordinary beauty of this island.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on all reviews.
“Second fabulous stay at Villa Idi”
This is the second year we have stayed at Villa Idi and as before it was superb. Manolis and Rula are amazing hosts and made our stay very special, introducing us to local events, giving great recommendations on things to do in the area and beyond and helping with any questions and queries. Mrs. Rumy's home cooked food is probably some of the best you will find on the island and the taverna at Meronas is also excellent. The Villa, outside space and views are fantastic - a perfect place to relax and unwind. We will be back again I'm sure.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on all reviews.
“Unwind. Recharge.”
After a long flight from Canada (and a 7-hour jet lag), Amari Villas has been our first stop in Crete to unwind and recharge. What a great decision! A newly renovated ‘’luxurious’&rs… More
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on all reviews.
“Unwind in comfort in the centre of traditional Crete”
We first stayed at Vila Idi in 2016 as a party of 4 adults & 4 children, lured by the glowing reviews on this site. If anything they failed to do it justice. Within a week of returning home, we had booked to return again in 2017. The only reason we have not booked a 3rd stay for 2018 is that we are planning to visit family in Australia next year and probably can’t stretch to going to Crete as well. The villa has been lovingly renovated by the Manolis, owner and still retains a connection with the family home it once was with character to match. Comfortable and well equipped, the interior is cool in the high 20s heat we had for most of our stay. The terrace has wonderful views over the tiled Amari rooftops and rest of the valley with Crete’s highest mountain, Mount Ida (Psiloritis) looming in the distance and is a lovely place to sunbathe, or just sit and relax in the warm evenings. The small pool was also perfect for cooling down in the heat of the day the children were constantly in and out. The Amari valley is a charming series of fields, sleepy villages and twisting, climbing roads which all but forces you to slow down and chill out. The people are unfailingly welcoming and life seems so much rooted in the land. We bought cherries from a lady selling them by the roadside directly from her garden, ate at tavernas where the owner could proudly state that he had grown or reared everything on the menu himself, and once even had pointed out the very goat in the next field which produced the cheese we were eating. We spent an evening sitting on the villa terrace with Manolis drinking raki which was so local he could literally point to the house where it was made while offering directions to the fields where he grows his own grapes. He also provides with the villa, a detailed list of places of interest in the area, (monasteries, tavernas, gorges beaches) which we made full use of. Out of the valley further south, we visited several of Manolis recommended beaches walked though rugged gorges and relaxed with excellent food while watching the sun sink behind the mountains that plunge down into the Mediterranean. We had some really excellent meals out in the local area, and made use of the terrace barbecue. However as an added bonus, the villa’s on site housekeeper Rumy, is able to provided some absolutely wonderful local food on request, and nothing we found anywhere was as delicious as her home cooked meals. Lastly, I cannot really describe how wonderfully welcome and at home both Manolis and Rumy made us feel. You will simply not meet warmer or more generous people who were so happy to do anything to make our stay as enjoyable as possible. A huge thankyou to both for a couple of the best weeks I have ever had. We will most definitely be back
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on all reviews.
“Amazing place”
super lokalizacja na wypady w każdym kierunku. Obsługa hotelu jest bardzo dobra. Okolica bardzo ładna spokój cisza pełny Relax bardzo dobre jedzenie / Great location for trips in every directio… More
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on all reviews.
FAQs
- How do I find more info about the property?
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You can get in touch with MANOLIS (the owner) through the contact form on this page.
If you’ve already booked, go to Manage your booking to send the owner a message.
- What if I have questions before I book?
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Send MANOLIS (the owner) an email through the contact form on this page. Alternatively, if there’s a phone number on this page, you can call them.
- How do I contact MANOLIS (the owner)?
-
Send an email through the contact form on this page. Or if there’s a phone number on this page, you can call them.
If you’ve already booked, go to Manage your booking to view MANOLIS the owner's contact details or send them a message.
- What's the difference between 'Book your stay' and 'Contact the owner/manager'?
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Use the Ready to book? form to pay provisionally online and send MANOLIS (the owner) a booking request. You’ll find out within 24 hours whether they’ve accepted - no money will leave your account before then
Or send MANOLIS (the owner) an inquiry through the Contact the owner/manager form if you’d like a quote or more info first.
- What is a booking request?
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When you pay online through the Ready to book? form, a booking request is sent to MANOLIS (the owner). You’ll find out within 24 hours whether they’ve accepted - no money will leave your account before then.
Only bookings paid for through our site are covered by our trusted Payment Protection.
- How do I know my booking is safe?
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To book this property you need to pay through the Flipkey website. Only bookings paid for through our site are covered by our trusted Payment Protection. This means that in the unlikely event that you’re prevented or denied access to the property when you check in, we’ll offer a full refund for the stay.
- How do I know what it will cost for my stay?
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Simply enter your dates in the Ready to book? form to calculate the cost of your stay.
Click Book now to see a full breakdown of the price.You can also request a quote from MANOLIS (the owner) through the contact form. The owner will email you the total cost for your dates and a link to book and pay online.
- How do I know if my booking request has been accepted?
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You’ll receive an email within 24 hours to let you know. Or you can check in Manage your booking. No money will leave your account unless it’s accepted.
- How do I pay for my vacation?
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Use the Ready to book? form to pay provisionally online. You can pay by credit/debit card or PayPal. MANOLIS (the owner) will have 24 hours to accept the booking and no money will leave your account before then.
If you’ve been sent a quote, simply accept it and pay online through the email we sent you. You can also do this in Manage your booking.
Only bookings paid for through our site are covered by our trusted Payment Protection.
- Why can't I call MANOLIS (the owner) before booking?
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You can exchange contact details with the property owner/manager once your booking is confirmed and you’ve paid in full. Paying and communicating only through our platform allows us to ensure that your booking is covered by our Payment Protection policy.
If you have any questions before booking, you can send the property owner/manager a message via the contact form on their listing. Once you’ve booked, you can discuss the rental and make arrangements for your trip by logging into Manage your booking.
- How do damage deposits work?
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In most cases, you don’t pay a damage deposit up front. Instead, we save your payment details securely and you’re only charged in the event of damage to the property.
Occasionally, you will pay a damage deposit up front as part of the total rental cost. In this case, the owner has 10 days after you check out to report any damage. If they don’t, we’ll return your deposit. If their claim is successful, we’ll deduct the agreed cost and return the remainder.
- How can I view and manage my booking?
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Go to Manage your booking to view all your booking details, pay the balance of your booking or cancel it if you need to.
- How do I pay the balance of my booking?
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You can pay the remaining balance of your booking at any point. Simply go to Manage your booking and click Pay now.
We’ll automatically charge the balance payment to the same payment method 10 days before it’s due. Go to Manage your booking to see when the payment will be taken.
- How can I withdraw my booking request?
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You’ll need to contact MANOLIS (the owner) to do this. Send them a message in Manage your booking or through the contact form on this page.
- How do I cancel my booking?
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Go to Manage your booking to cancel your booking. Here you can view your cancellation policy to see if you’ll be refunded.
- How do I make changes to my booking?
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You can request to change the dates or number of people on your booking via the Manage your booking page. To change your dates use the Edit booking button. If you need to change the number of guests staying then send MANOLIS (the owner) a message.
If MANOLIS (the owner) agrees, they’ll send you a revised quote outlining the changes. You can review and accept/decline this from the Manage your booking page. You’ll have 48 hours to take action before the revised quote expires.
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