We have just returned from a week staying in the topmost villa pictured. We arri…

We have just returned from a week staying in the topmost villa pictured. We arrived at night having been met by the excellent english speaking owner who proudly showed us the spotless interior with all its modern gadgetry and ultra modern layout and gave us all the information on the best places to go and visit. In the morning we awoke to find breathtaking views of the coastline of Kissamos Bay between the Gramvousa peninsula and the old port of Kissamos. We were able to swim and relax in our spacious and private terrace and infinity pool with the mountain backdrop and tranquility emphasising what a paradise spot this is. This is a very special place - not cheap but worth the extra costs one could expect of 5 star. The owner was always at hand if we needed anything and his hospitality was exceptional. Whilst we had a car to explore this part of the island we were able to walk in the evening down the hill and through the olive groves to the quaint local village of Kaliviana where there were two very good Cretan restaurants. Also very near by are a couple of good fishing restaurants in the old port. Further afield there are dozens of small typically unspoilt villages worthy of visiting as well as fantastic sandy beaches at Falasarna, Balos Bay and Elafanissi. Kissamos has all the necessary facilities that one could expect in a small town. We cannot speak more highly of the villa and no doubt we will return.

Myself, my hubby and our 2.5 year old son stayed recently at Cretan Summer Resid…

Myself, my hubby and our 2.5 year old son stayed recently at Cretan Summer Residence. We decided to splash out on three days of luxury and enjoyed our stay so much we extended it another day. The villa is situated up a hill just a short drive from Kissamos. Personally I didn't love Kissamos but it was a great place to get supplies, have a coffee, do a spot of shopping so on that basis it was absolutely fine. However the villa is in a truly gorgeous spot, up a hill looking out over the bay with hills on either side. The view is really something. From the villa you can easily get to the fabulous local restaurant Gramboussa - We went twice in four days! And the fantastic beach at Phalasrna. We weren't there that long but if you are happy to drive about there is plenty to do. Alternatively a day spent at the villa is equally fun. The villa itself has a wonderful outside space ideal for dining in the sun. It even has a BBQ. It also has a great pool, but be vigilant with little tots. As always it could be a bit slippy poolside. That said, we never had any problems. Indoors, the villa has everything you might need. It's compact but well equipped especially the kitchen which is really smart. The bedrooms are spotless and romantic, the bathrooms are high end. Overall, the place has a very expensive feel. They haven't cut corners anywhere. The whirlpool bath was awesome. On arrival we were met and fully informed about the house. They even left some toys for our little one to play with along with high chair and cot. I can't massively fault anything it really was one of the most amazing places I have ever stayed. Below are the tiny things which are worth mentioning. A bit hard to find - we missed the turning looking for it. Essentially there is a dirt track directly alongside the petrol station. Keep going through the olive fields and you will get there. It's very new so in years to come when the planting has bedded in - it will be really stunning but there is a bit of building equipment stored at the top. Again, not a problem, never in use and honestly didn't bother me. Just worth mentioning because on first look you may think they are still building at the top. The villa is really private and we always felt left alone, but some paths run along side to get between the other villas so from time to time the people working there will pass. Just worth noting if you need someone very very private. I honestly can't criticise anything else. We had a glorious time all round!

After a few years of package holidays in so called five star resorts and not get…

After a few years of package holidays in so called five star resorts and not getting what I really wanted more than anything, peace, quiet and privacy, I'm pleased to say I've finally found perfection! In June 2014 my best friend and I stayed in Cretan Summer Residence for an epic two weeks and it was amazing. However the great experience started months before that when I was asking questions and one of the owners by email. To my surprise I received replies to my numerous mails almost always within the hour and always with a great level detail and answering all of my questions - you don't get that level of service with any holiday company. Once we'd confirmed our booking we were even asked what kind of wine we'd like on arrival. On arrival we were met by one of the owners where he showed us around the villa and then explained all about the local area to us, giving us tips and advice on where and when to go for day trips, shopping and just about anything you could possibly want. When he left we explored the villa and everything was great, it looked identical to the pictures on the website and that's not always the case with hotels! The view of Kissamos Bay is stunning and everything inside and outside the villa is of the highest spec, from electrical equipment, furnishings and even the beds and baths / showers. From that point on we had two weeks of bliss. Our time at the villa was so peaceful and the cleaner and 'pool guy' were incredibly nice and really respected your privacy. As for the location, again, for us it was perfect. You have stunning beaches between five minutes and just over an hour away, we personally would recommend Elafonisi, but our favourite by far was Falasarna - it's no more than ten minute drive, quiet, not crowded and has beautiful clear water. Balos has a good reputation but we'd probably say not to bother as it's not easy to get to and nowhere near as good as the others. There are plenty of mini supermarkets and one medium-sized one, all within a few minutes drive and a few local restaurants also. The closest town is Kissamos but it's very small and while perfect for us, if you're looking for a bustling nightlife and excitement you'll need to head somewhere else. Ultimately, if you want quiet, peace, luxury, privacy and a real five star experience, book a stay there immediately, you will not be disappointed :)