‘Small but perfect’ is the motto of our beautifully situated holiday cottage in Hiona on the east coast of Crete.

Two couples with two children can holiday here across two floors. The maisonette is often booked by a single couple too, as it is simply a romantic spot – there’s no other way to put it!

Many years ago, the building was constructed right on the water’s edge as a storehouse for oil, carob, etc. When the ships arrived, the goods could be loaded directly and transported away. The solid walls were built from grey natural stone and have proudly withstood the wind and salty air for many years.

It is now forbidden in Greece to build so close to the water, so there are only a handful of such houses left across the whole of Crete that have ‘survived’ from earlier years.

Two separate bedrooms with double beds are spread across the two floors, connected by a spiral staircase. There is also a small open room at the front where two children could sleep in a bunk bed. The bathroom is small, but has everything you need. In the functionally equipped kitchen, you can prepare simple meals, though the neighbouring taverna also tempts with traditional and utterly delicious dishes that change daily. You sit beneath tamarisk trees and can almost dip your big toe in the water – isn’t that a dream?

The beach is also just a few steps away, and the water is crystal clear. Right next to the beach is the Roussolakos archaeological site. During the Minoan era, it was the largest city after Knossos. Yet despite its great significance, this archaeological site is hardly developed for tourism; very few holidaymakers are even aware of its existence. Numerous further finds are believed to lie buried in the ground in Hiona and the surrounding area, which is why there is a complete halt to construction work. So hopefully this idyllic gem will remain just as it is for a long time to come! Another stunning beach lies just a few metres away, on the other side of the Table Mountain: Kouremenos.

Layout:

Suitable for up to 6 people

2 floors

Ground floor:

1 living area with kitchenette

1 bedroom with double bed

First floor:

1 bedroom with double bed

1 ‘twin bedroom’ with bunk beds (possibly for children)

1 bathroom with shower/WC

1 kitchenette

1 bathroom with shower/WC

Prices: