A few kilometres inland from the coast at Kalives, about ˝ hr drive from the town of
Chania and the airport, this tiny hamlet enjoys a really spectacular setting offering
wonderful views over the countryside.
The first glimpse of the village is the one that stays in
the mind. Driving through the olive groves and orchards of the Cretan countryside
towards the foothills of the White Mountains you see a small village whose houses seem to
cling to the craggy hillside. You cross a rocky ravine and pass between old
whitewashed cottages, bright with flowers. A few old chairs are clustered under a tree,
cats rest in the shade.
It is easy to feel that locals are determined that the place should remain unspoilt. They
recently declared the village a conservation area where the restoration of old dwellings
is encouraged and any new development is strictly prohibited.
Authentically Cretan and hospitable, it is a wonderful base from which to explore the
island, though it is hard to imagine anywhere more relaxing.
Located on the edge of the village, Marilis is an enchanting terrace of old
houses. After an exemplary restoration, which lasted for almost 20 years, this A class
retreat was created with tastefulness, extensive knowledge, imagination, respect
and love for traditional and environmental values.
The houses have been
refurbished using all natural materials and in harmony with their surroundings. Local
dressed stone, olive wood and hand wrought metalwork have been used and the
decorating colors are all natural pigments. The work was done exclusively by the
owners with a team of local craftsmen.
To the front of the houses there is nothing to interrupt the gorgeous country views
and each of the six units has its own terrace to make the most of this panorama. To
the rear is a large and exceptionally charming courtyard - with ancient stone
arches and interesting touches such as an outside shower converted from an old
Turkish hamam - backed by stone-walled agricultural terraces which the owners
have landscaped into a wonderful garden.
The property’s swimming pool is
located on one of the upper terraces, offering breathtaking views. There are
numerous peaceful corners where guests can enjoy total relaxation and privacy -
including a romantic little tree-house hidden amongst the many fig and olive trees.
The long tables under the deep shade of vines and mulberry trees are where many
days begin and end. This is where the lady owner serves delicious dinners under the
stars several times a week, except in cooler weather when her husband lights a fire
and the table is set in the large old kitchen. The use of local vegetables, rich-yoked
eggs from a neighbour, the best meat and locally baked bread, combines to
produce unforgettable meals: Cretan cheese pie, delicate aubergine fritters,
country chicken stew, an omelette with courgettes and tomatoes all arrive on the
table apparently effortlessly. Breakfast is also available daily and includes a variety
of local produce such as home-made marmalade, fresh eggs, local honey and
delicious local yoghurt.
The old water storage tank below the houses has been converted into a cosy wine
cellar and there is also a small ‘kafenion’, with pavement seating perched on a
shaded viewing terrace opposite the houses, where traditional Cretan snacks are
available.
The property offers a choice of one or two-bedroom houses, well appointed, with self
catering facilities.
The units are furnished with care, all have beautiful marble or
wooden floors, terracotta and marble shower rooms and many striking architectural
features.
The shared swimming pool is 12m x 7m (depth 0.7–1.8m) and has a children’s area.
Details :
No. 1 – Accessed from the entrance to the
courtyard, this apartment is arranged on two
floors (with a spiral staircase). On the ground
floor there is an open-plan living/dining room
with kitchenette with a sofa bed. Upstairs
there is a double bedroom, a shower room
and a balcony.
No. 2 – Single-storey apartment accessed
from the courtyard, comprising an open-plan
living area with divan and kitchenette, a
double bedroom, a shower room and sitting
out area facing the courtyard.
No. 3 – Split-level apartment accessed from
the courtyard. Large living room, with
kitchenette and shower room on the ground
floor. Twin bedroom on the first floor and a
sleeping area on an open gallery. There is also
a roof terrace.
No. 4 – two bedroom apartment accessed
from the courtyard. One double and one twin
bedroom, shower room, open-plan
lounge/dining room/kitchenette (with mini
cooker) and a large covered veranda with
lovely views.
No. 5 – 2 bedroom apartment located on the
upper ground floor and accessed from the
lane. One double and one twin bedroom,
open-plan lounge/dining room/kitchenette,
bathroom and a spacious terrace with lovely
views and its own plum tree.
No. 6 – Detached two bedroom house –
lovely old restored detached house, above
main houses right by the cliffs with its own
stone-paved, vine-covered terrace with
beautiful views across the valley. 2 double
bedrooms, living room with fireplace,
bathroom and kitchen with full size oven.
The houses no not have air-conditioning units. The
50cm thick stone walls maintain a naturally
cool environment in the hottest summer
months and retain valuable heat in the winter.
Distances: Chania town : 23km -- Airport: 25 km -- Port: 18 km
Beach: 5 km -- Shops: 2 km -- Restaurants: 2 km
Greece (425)
800-221-2260