Villa Idi: pure relaxation in the heart of Crete

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.

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.

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 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.

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 are 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.

Your stay

On your arrival, owner Manolis Papadakis will be there to welcome you. Highly knowledgeable of the property and the area’s rich history, Manolis will be delighted to share with you the story of the house, his family and the Amari.

Villa Idi has belonged to the owner's family for more than 150 years. From the building’s earliest times it was a place where neighbours and the community met for joyful gatherings. Wanting to reflect this valuable heritage, the owner has decorated the villa with unique pieces of embroidery made by his mother and grandmother, and has kept many of the antique objects and furniture of the original house.

These delicate pieces keep alive the traditional character of the house - precious heirlooms that take us back in time, and remind us of the villa’s rich history.
The garden around villa contains many flowers, aromatic herbs and trees. Guests can feel free to pick the garden’s produce which includes almonds, lemons and pomegranates.

Your journey to the Amari

Heraklion and Chania airports are approximately 100 km from the village of Amari, and a journey by car from either will take not much more than 90 minutes. While the Amari valley is serviced by public transport car hire is strongly advised. The owner can provide recommendations for car hire providers at Chania, Heraklion or Rethymno. Pick-ups from either airport can also be arranged.