Nestled in Megala Chorafia near ancient Aptera, this unique stone retreat offers an authentic escape where nature takes the lead. We kept it simple—the private bathroom is a separate building next to the bedroom. Enjoy an outdoor kitchen with a gas stove, hot water, fridge, Wi-Fi, stunning mountain views & complete serenity. It's not just a stay—it's an unforgettable experience of slowing down & reconnecting. Bonus: feel free to pick and enjoy fruits, vegetables, or herbs growing in our garden.
The space
Ηaroupaki (the little carob tree) isn't a polished villa with a pool and a humming air conditioner. There's no hair dryer. No washing machine.
What it is: part of the 100-year-old stone house of our grandmother Evanthia, now running entirely on solar power. The thick stone walls keep the summer heat out, and a century-old carob tree shades the courtyard. There's Wi-Fi, so you can stay off-grid without falling off the map.
Here, the kitchen is outside. You cook on a traditional gas burner and a built-in BBQ, with a view of the White Mountains. A few steps away are three raised beds of organic tomatoes, aubergines, peppers and courgettes that you're free to pick yourself. Next to them, a prickly pear cactus with its fruit, while fresh rosemary, thyme and oregano grow in the garden for your cooking. "From garden to table," for real. If you're lucky, in September you'll also pick grapes from the little vine.
The bedroom is a single stone room with a double bed, kept cool by the old walls, with a quiet atmosphere rare in the city. The bathroom is a few steps away, in the courtyard.
Bring your dog too. The big garden is his as well.
And when you want the world back, it's right there: ancient Aptera with views over Souda Bay (5 min), the springs of Stylos (5 min), the Itzedin fortress (10 min), pretty Vamos (15 min), and the Venetian Harbour of Chania (15–20 min). The turquoise waters of Marathi, Lake Kournas, the wild beauty of Seitan Limania — all within half an hour.
It's a
Rental license number: 00003909892