Our Crete family vacation was taken to a whole other level by staying at Villa Emmanuela. First, the property is luxuriously beautiful and secluded, just a quick 10min drive from Rethymno (don’t be deterred by a goat farm patch). Then the sliding gate opens to the house and parking deck, and to the right is the gorgeous pool deck, and just beyond is a walking garden full of pink, white flowers and bushy plants and fruit trees leading around the edge of the house. The house is exactly as pictured, plenty of kitchen supplies, very cozy living room, downstairs apartment can function separately, although we propped the door open and spent all our time hanging out together. Bathrooms are stocked and plenty of towels, both for the pool and for indoors. Washer, dryer and drying rack worked well and were so convenient. Great selection of balconies made a lovely start to the morning with a coffee to enjoy the scenery. Our family brought walkie-talkies so we could check in while everyone was mulling around the house, and it was fun to see the family calling to each other via walkie-talkies from different balconies. Pool deck had plenty of loungers and seating for all of us, not to mention a great collection of pool floats. The outdoor patio table is covered by an awning and perfect for lunches and outdoor dinners as the sun sets. We also really loved the pool shower. There’s a running track only 10min walk from the property and a small convenience store too, although we just did trips to the fruit and veg stands in the town.
Most of all, the hostess manager of the property is amazing. Greeks are notorious for being excellent hosts, and Konstantina went above and beyond her duties. For example, we sent in supplies for a treasure hunt game, and she helped set that up as well as arranged details to make our stay wonderful including ordering a flower arrangement for a birthday and even provided a gift basket with local baked goods! All of this was of course on top of the regular host duties (answering emails, providing advice, checking in, visiting to ensure we had enough linen, and responding to texts and answering questions in real time.) I don’t know if you will be lucky to get Konstantina because the property is owned by a different couple, but if you do, you’re guaranteed a responsive host and a great stay.
