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- Magical beachfront location
- On Crete's unspoilt southern shore
- Four comfortable self-catering suites
- Nearest taverna 1min walk
These four charming suites sit just steps away from Ferma beach, screened by tamarisk trees and furnished with a wooden walkway leading directly from suite to sea. Located on the south east coast between Ierapetra and Makriyialos, Cretophiles might recognise this delightfully unspoilt spot as Crete the way it used to be, whilst those new to the area are in for a real treat.
The Apothikes were originally used as warehouses for carob pods, once widely cultivated in Crete and exported all over the world. The trade declined and the warehouses were abandoned, but a local hotelier quickly saw the potential of this superb location and converted the building into four, comfortable self-catering suites, each with its own patio, barbecue and sunbeds. This means that you can wander out of your front door and straight onto the beach. The beach taverna in particular comes highly recommended offering delicious local cuisine in a fabulous location overlooking the sea.
The suites have enormous appeal for a young family in search of simple seaside pleasures; the beach is a mix of sand and shingle, with irresistibly clear water for paddling or snorkelling. This location is also excellent for a couple interested in exploring the southern coast, with characterful towns such as Ierapetra and the beaches and seafront tavernas of Makriyialos just 20 minutes away by car. And if you have time, a trip inland will reward you with outstanding views across stunning, other-worldly landscapes that few visitors ever get to see.
Looking for 10 nights..? Why not add a 3-night stay in a boutique hotel to your villa holiday. To find out more, view our 10-night holidays in Greece.
In Greece, a tourist tax may apply at your accommodation which will be payable locally, in cash, during the course of your holiday. Please use the link to view details specific to your accommodation. View tourist tax rates here.
Accommodation
Four beachfront suites
- Ammos, Avra, Ilios and Thalassa
- All identical, except for Ammos which has an en-suite bathroom, and Ilios which has a shower room
Layout
- Open-plan living/dining/kitchen area with TV
- Kitchen includes full-size cooker, microwave, fridge-freezer
- Double bedroom (150cm x 190cm)
- Ammos, Avra & Thalassa: bathroom with shower over ½ bath; Ilios: shower room
- Two divan beds in living area suitable for children under 16
General
- Complimentary WiFi
- Air-conditioned throughout
- Iron, ironing board, hair dryer, bath and pool towels provided
- Washing machine
- Private sunbeds
- Patio dining table and chairs
- Wooden decked paths lead towards the sea
- Parking space
- Please note that there is a steep driveway (approx. 100m long) from the coast road to the suites
WiFi
- All properties with WiFi are able to support basic functionality such as web browsing and checking emails*
* We aim to offer an uninterrupted service but sometimes due to factors beyond our control reliability can be affected.
National tourist licence (EOT): 1040K10000042300
Location
- Located on Ferma beach
- Nearest taverna 1min walk
- Ferma village mini market and tavernas 10min walk
- Ierapetra 20min drive
- Makriyialos 20min drive
- Agios Nikolaos 40min drive
- Heraklion airport 1hr 35min drive
Car hire
Car options
Based on the number of people travelling, the following hire car(s) are included in the package price of your holiday:
- 2-3 guests – 1 Group C2, Seat Ibiza/Renault Clio/Skoda Fabia or similar*
- 4 guests – 1 Group D2, Hyundai i30/Seat Leon or similar*
* All our cars include comprehensive insurance with no excess charge. For this particular destination, the undercarriage, tyres, wing mirrors and windscreen are not included in the cover.
Car specification
Group C2 – 1.2-1.4 litre engine, 1 large suitcase*
Group D2 – 1.4 litre engine, 2 large suitcases*
The following cars are available as alternatives on request (supplements apply). Please call our travel specialists for details.
Group CA – Automatic Nissan Micra or similar, 1.2-1.4 litre engine, 1 large suitcase*
Group D3 – Seat Toledo (diesel) or similar, 1.4 - 2.0 litre engine, 3 large suitcases*
Group DA3 – Automatic Nissan Pulsar / Opel Astra Station or similar , 1.4 - 2.0 litre engine, 3 large suitcases*
Group L2 – Dacia Duster or similar, 1.2 litre engine, 3 large suitcases*
Group F1 - Citroen Grand C4 or similar, 7 seater, 1.4 - 2.0 litre engine, 2 large suitcases*
Group FA - Automatic Citroen Grand C4 Space Tourer or similar, 7 seater, 1.4 - 2.0 litre engine, 2 large suitcases*
* Suitcase sizes are based on a large suitcase being approximately 75cm x 41cm x 31cm, a medium suitcase of approximately 65cm x 46cm x 29cm and a small suitcase of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm.
A beautiful magical location. The suites were comfortable and clean with everything you.need. We really appreciated the generous welcome pack and the inclusion of toiletries.
It was a beautiful location, serene, and I couldn’t wait to open the door in the morning for the perfect view. It absolutely met our expectations for a chill out holiday. We loved Ammos as it felt very private. Simpson Travel is so good, you feel very supported, and Vasilis was an absolute delight to deal with. The car hire booked as part of the holiday, pick up and drop off was the smoothest we’ve ever experienced and we’ve had many times of doing this. Will definitely consider using them again.
This was our first holiday using a travel agent and we were so impressed. The whole holiday we felt really well looked after. The car hire experience was so easy, well managed and relaxed. Apothikes Suites are perfect for a couple with a young baby. We loved being able to enjoy the beach while also being close when our daughter was napping. Thanks for a brilliant holiday!
The only reason to leave the accommodation was to get food and drink. The suite the terrace the view and the sea could not be bettered.
I have been looking for the quiet beach front idyll for years and found it at the Apothikes Suites. Literally on the beach with beautiful sparkling sea, great snorkelling and lovely tavernas within a short walk. Vasilis, our rep was attentive and very helpful with information which made our stay complete. All in all a most wonderful and relaxing holiday.
The Apothikes Suites are a little bit of paradise. Located on a quiet bay you awake to the sound of waves lapping at the beach and the breeze through the tamarisk trees. The trees at Thalassa suite provide wonderful dappled shade throughout the day. The location reminded me of the Greece of 30 years ago. The suite was basic but provided everything you would need for a truly relaxing time. Separate air conditioning in the bedroom and lounge made it easy to control temperature where needed. Kitchen well appointed with all necessary utensils. Welcome pack was first class and the dried pasta and jar of pasta sauce came in very handy on the day when the wind really howled and we didn’t fancy going out to a taverna. The owner is lovely and popped round to make sure all was ok and sorted out a minor problem with the safe being left closed quickly. The suite was cleaned twice during our stay with the first clean on the Friday the best midweek clean I think I have ever had in a holiday rental! Even the Simpson beach towels were changed. Finally a big thanks to Vasilis for all his help and for being such an enthusiastic and joyful rep.
Lovely peaceful location when you open your door every morning it’s a touch of paradise. Vasilis was excellent, nothing was too much trouble, he goes above and beyond to be helpful. Our 3rd Simpson holiday, very well organised flights, taxi transfer with messages from Vasilis checking in to make sure everything is running smoothly.
A slice of paradise.
Superb location with a real ‘away from it all’ vibe. Hosts very attentive without being obtrusive. Rep Vasilis really goes the extra mile and was extremely helpful when I was unwell.
Apothikes beach suites were set in an absolutely perfect location, which made for a truly memorable holiday. Waking up to the sound of the sea, & the sun on the water. Our rep Vasilis, was an absolute joy. The friendliest & cheeriest person you could ever wish to meet. He greeted us with chilled bottles of water, escorted us to our taxi, & helped us with our damaged suitcases, supplying us with a cleaner, as well as a plug in mosquito repellent. Vasilis is an absolute credit to Simpsons, & the most superb rep we have ever met .
Ours was a last-minute booking and a return to Simpson Travel after many years. Previously we had excellent holidays with Simpson – this time was exceptional. The suite itself, with such a comfortable bed and so well-equipped; the location – paradise! The warmth of welcome from Evangelia and the housekeeper all superb – as was Vasilis with his enthusiastic help. We return home refreshed and restored – and with the firm intention of coming back. After so many years, we had forgotten just how good Simpson Travel is – we are delighted to be reminded. Thank you to all.
Wonderful experience. Quiet, peaceful and beautiful setting. Couldn't have been better.
A lovely holiday in a beautiful location, though a very windy end to the week! We tried the local tavernas, which were all good and staff friendly. Simpson staff all helpful as usual, special thanks to Vasilis.
Everything was very good. We enjoyed the suite and particularly it’s position on the beach.
Marking our 25th year of travelling with Simply/Simpson with a wonderful week in Crete, staying at the Apothikes Beach Suites. For sure, get out and explore the area, but really you have everything you need on your doorstep. Walk out onto the sandy beach and into the tranquil waters of the Libyan sea. If you're not barbecuing as the sun sets, the nearby taverna's are all recommended. Travel light, bring a good book, then kick back, unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures in life.
We really appreciated all the little extras that raise a holiday above the merely 'good' to become exceptional. Lovely comfortable pillows (for the first time in years, the ones we brought from home weren't needed!); fine wine glasses, lovely bathroom toiletries, plentiful beach towels and so on. We booked at very short notice and at every stage felt very well looked after. This was, for us, a return to a 'packaged' holiday after many years of doing our own arranging. We had always liked Simpson Travel in the past; so had high expectations. They were met in every single detail. Thank you.
Idyllic! A retreat away from the cares and worries of a hectic world. Balm for the soul. Beautiful setting and a perfect place. Heaven on earth. Calm, gentle sea lapping against the shore right outside our villa. Wish we could stay longer but our memories will always remember this wonderful place. Thank you to Vasilis – great rep. Very generous welcome pack.
A beautiful place to spend a week, very peaceful. Apartment is well equipped and if you should need anything, the Simpson rep is on hand. All local tavernas well worth a visit.
A lovely holiday in a beautiful location, though a very windy end to the week! We tried the local tavernas, which were all good and staff friendly. Simpson staff all helpful as usual, special thanks to Vasilis.
Incredible location in a very quiet unspoilt part of Crete. Being situated right on the beach was idyllic! I could not get off the hammock - I felt like I was in heaven! The accommodation was tasteful and simple, and had everything you need for a relaxing holiday. Really good selection of local tavernas & more upmarket eateries. Easy access to interesting towns and villages. Loved it!
What a place! Our first words when arriving at midnight were “let’s book this for next year". You always know when you find an absolute gem! We have two small children (2 and 4 months) who loved playing in the sea, breakfasts outside, building sand castles, cats. It’s been magical and we have made some amazing memories. We can’t wait to return and will be thinking of this place often when we are back at work!
This place is idyllic! We loved our stay. In the mornings and evenings we had the beach to ourselves. Even at peak time, it is never busy. Great for snorkelling. We didn’t want to stray too far, but went to Myrtos for a lovely dinner.
Our second visit to Apothikes and we were in no way disappointed – having returned after a similar fabulous week last year. The timeless atmosphere of this place is one of its greatest assets – the weather and the view do help! Ilios at is perfect for two and well equipped. Visits from Evangelia, the owner, were an added personal touch and appreciated. Relaxed – enjoyed being here and left the world behind!
What an absolutely beautiful and restful week on a very pretty beach. If you like a natural and uncomplicated holiday then it’s the place to go. If you walk a short way up into the village you will find both wonderful traditional taverna style food and also high end Greek food. We will definitely return. Loved it.
It’s the small things that really make the difference between a good holiday and a great holiday. Every aspect of the Simpson Travel service is designed and delivered with this in mind. This was our third Simpson experience and I sincerely hope there will be many many more to come.
Tailoring our stay & flights to suit our particular requirements made the whole holiday 100% relaxing. The Apothikes Beach was the most laid back accommodation ever and Kostoulas was so helpful. Nothing was too much trouble to her and her quiet help was greatly appreciated. The welcome pack was spot on and greatly appreciated. Evangelia & Giannis (the owners) were kind and reassuring when the weather became boisterous, their visit was most welcome.
So glad we booked for two weeks. Staying on the beach was absolutely wonderful so much so we didn’t want to go anywhere else!
We're delighted to have discovered Simpson Travel. They'll be our first port of call for future relaxing beach holidays. Our two venues in Crete suited us perfectly, allowing us peace and seclusion backed up with the confidence that any queries or potential problems would always be dealt with in a professional and friendly way, from the booking procedure and right through the holiday, including the journeys at each end, and the process of car hire while there. The Simpson 'Concierges' acted more like travelling companions than mere assistants - genuinely concerned for our peace of mind and comfort.
We had a terrific 2 weeks in Crete with Simpson's - everyone was lovely from Simpson's and were so helpful and friendly. Being met at the airport by a rep holding the hire car keys was a major plus as we could get in and drive off almost immediately. We'll definitely be booking with Simpson's again!
I have travelled extensively and this holiday with Simpson travel at the Apothikes Beach suites was the best holiday I have ever taken. Will be forever a Simpson convert now. Thank you.
Everything about the holiday was wonderful. The apartment, being on the beach, was in the very best location. Simpson rep was very helpful and locals very friendly. A little bit of paradise - we will return!
Honeymoon in paradise, such a special and beautiful place. Simpsons Travel looked after us from start to finish, can’t fault them. We were disappointed with the delays with tui airlines but appreciate this is no fault of Simpsons travel, and where they could they tried to mitigate any issues ie booked us a free taxi transfer due to delays, and booked us a hotel to rest in near airport prior to late flight home.
Fantastic location to relax and spend time gazing at the sea. The beach perfect for collecting a wide variety of pebbles & shells. 3 great tavernas close by… we were lucky enough to experience a sea storm and watch the roller waves, nature at its best!
Another excellent Simpson holiday. Apothikes is just the place for a relaxing beach holiday. To wake up to the view of the sea just a stones throw away from the bedroom window was magic. Ammos has everything you could want for the perfect stay.
Wonderfully situated studio literally on the beach. Well-presented (larger than we expected) with large comfortable bed, plenty of seating, good cooker and large fridge. Good pots and pans (we like cooking), plenty of crockery and glasses. Good patio with BBQ and seating: wonderful to eat outside for every meal.
They say in customer service that a crisis is an opportunity. Simpson proved the truth of that when our booking was cancelled at late notice by the property owner in Crete due to Covid-19. Too many UK holidaymakers were pulling out, apparently, due to concerns over the virus and the owner had had enough. It must be so tough for companies like Simpson to deal with situations like this at a time when all holiday companies are struggling for revenues. But their response was fantastic. They offered us our money back, but also found us some excellent alternative properties. They gave us time to decide, allowed us maximum flexibility and we ended up in two different parts of the island for one week each – providing a more varied holiday than we'd originally planned, in properties that were just stunning. The result was one of the best holidays we've ever had.
The biggest selling point is the location – it’s just beautiful! Waking up to the sunrise and the sound of the waves lapping the shore was blissful! It’s was supremely relaxing because we had everything we needed – a lovely space both inside and out. No need to go anywhere unless we really wanted to. Everyone we spoke to was very friendly and helpful – Simpson Travel in the UK, in Crete, the car rental people. Highly recommended.
My husband and I stayed at the Apothikes Beach Suites for the second year running. It is wonderful to step off the patio and straight on to the beach and great for an early morning swim. Once again our rep, Marion, was extremely helpful with tips and information about the area. Our experience with the car hire company was excellent and we managed to cover 1,400 km touring Eastern Crete. There were several very good tavernas within walking distance. We would recommend this part of Crete for a quieter, more traditional taste of Crete.
The simple pleasures of sun, blue sky and the sea a mere 20 yards or so from the door, with the not infrequent addition of a glass of something refreshing, just can't be beaten and easy to see why, seemingly, a significant proportion of guests don't venture much further! Add into the equation the services of Marion as our local representative who, apart from just being such fun, ever helpful and absolutely delightful (she bakes great cookies too!), was able to pick up quickly on exactly what we were looking for from our visit, thus enabling us to get a real flavour of our first venture to this end of the island on the back of her recommendations. Kostoula, who met us when we arrived and departed, was equally lovely and, yet again, we ended another Simpson holiday feeling we were saying goodbye to friends rather than just reps. A week was just not long enough so we shall return again at some point to explore further. Finally, a big thank you to Rosie and her team for the whole booking and pre-departure service – faultless as usual!
We had a wonderful relaxing holiday at Apothikes, a truly unique place to experience the real Crete – we relaxed and explored the local area. The locals are very friendly and food in every taverna lovely.
Simpson doesn't look anywhere else, reassuringly perfect value for money, There are lots of pretenders to the throne, but the King and Queen of travel are Simpson.
First time we had used Simpson Travel to go to Crete after reading about them in The Telegraph, also highly recommended by others who have used them for many years. Personal and prompt service was greatly appreciated and listing all the documents as attachments for our itinerary was superb as we knew we had everything in advance. Your representatives in Crete were so efficient, so helpful and very knowledgeable.
Only our second Simpson Holiday. You guys are different class. Can’t wait for our next journey together.
WOW! This place surpassed our expectations. A wonderful beach, perfect for all of our party. Ages ranging from almost 2 to 56. So comfortable in the suites and local restaurants easy to walk to. Hoping to return before everyone finds out about this magical place.
We had a wonderful week in Ferma for our honeymoon.The studio was perfect and as expected; very well furnished, clean and comfortable. Location was excellent, only 10 metres from the sea! The Simpson Travel rep was lovely, very friendly and knowledgeable. We were very pleased with the experience we had through Simpson Travel and would certainly book through them again.
Thank you to Simpson Travel for another lovely holiday. This was our second trip to Apothikes and it did not disappoint. We loved falling asleep listening to the sea (and sometimes the wind), snorkelling in the bay, reading in the hammock and enjoying the hospitality in the local tavernas. Would recommend to anyone looking for a relaxing spot.
What an incredible place – perfectly situated in quiet Ferma bay and only a couple of strides from front door to the gently lapping waves. This was the perfect rest and relaxation holiday spent snorkelling amongst the rocks, reading in the hammock and watching the sunset with a glass of local wine. Our local rep, Marian, provided us with some brilliant recommendations to explore the local surroundings. Cannot recommend this place more highly!
We’ve felt like castaways since arriving in this heavenly little bay and Ilios has been filled with relaxation. We shall miss the sea’s ebbing soundtrack from our slumbers. Had a wonderful stay and shall most definitely be returning. Many thanks to the great Simpson team.
Lovely relaxing week here. Absolutely idyllic location with an amazing welcome pack and everything we needed re equipment.
This was an R&R holiday for us. The accommodation was excellent and extremely well equipped – location perfect.
We really enjoyed our stay at the Apothikes Beach Suites, generous in size, well equipped, and a beautiful and secluded location. We loved being right on the edge of the sea, and there can’t be a better way to start the day than breakfast with the sunrise, the sound of the waves, and a local friendly cat! A very chilled and relaxing week. It could only have been better if we’d booked two weeks!
Idyllic location, the children had a real sense of freedom being on the beach all day. Just perfect.
Apothikes Beach Suites is perfect if you want to switch off completely and wake up looking out to sea every morning and hear the sea lapping against the beach as you sleep. The apartments are well equipped and in a charming spot right on the beach. We stayed with our 4-year-old, which was perfect as we could sit pretty much at the end of our veranda and watch him play in the sea as you are so close. There were two other families staying the same week as us, the children all played together which was great, but it was also private enough that you didn't feel on top of each other even if you were eating at home as each apartment is screened off so it feels private. It is nice being close to a couple of tavernas, but you need to be able to drive if you want to venture further afield. There are some lovely coves with a taverna a short drive away. The sea is crystal clear and the whole area has a rugged charm. The tavernas we went to were really good and the people are extremely friendly.
Apothikes Beach Suites provided a peaceful haven away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Waking up each morning to the sound of the waves only a few feet away from the apartment was amazing. The beach was quiet and tranquil and we often felt that it was just for us. It’s a perfect place to unwind, read and recharge your batteries.
Utter bliss! We chose the Apothikes Beach Suites from the website because it looked just what we wanted. We were wrong! It was so much more.... It would be hard to imagine a nicer place. A truly fantastic location just a few steps from the sea. We fell asleep and woke to the sound of lapping waves. Thalassa is a beautiful apartment, simply decorated but with all mod cons. It has great outside space with a dining table and chairs, barbecue, outside shower (a godsend after our frequent dips in the sea), sunbeds and a hammock. It’s the perfect place to spend a lazy week, reading, swimming and snorkelling, admiring the view and enjoying the Cretan hospitality. Driving to and from the airport was easy too.
We had a wonderfully relaxing holiday at Apothikes Beach Suites - the staff are excellent. Please don’t change as the personal service is great from all concerned.
Apothikes Beach Suites is a perfect place to unwind. From the first swim with the sun low in the sky, to watching the moonlight on the water, you have comfort and all amenities close at hand. Very peaceful and very Greek.
A lovely location, unique probably. A delightful apartment, nothing left to chance.
We didn’t want to go home! We had a fabulous two weeks in peace and beauty at the Apothikes Beach Suites. We are very impressed with Simpson Travel and its attention to detail. Just perfect really. Thanks to Harvey and his team, especially Marian. There is so much to do and still see. The Archeological Museum in Heraklion is a must, but take a day for this alone. Kritsa is a cute Greek village – beautiful flowers and character. Vai beach palm trees are beautiful, great archeological site too.
We can highly recommend Apothikes Beach Suites.
We didn’t stray far – to the sea, the Avra Taverna and to the shop….that’s about all! You can’t beat being right on the beach.
My two weeks at Apothikes Beach Suites came to an end and I was sorry to leave my little slice of heaven. It’s an amazing place, so peaceful and quiet, exactly what I was looking for and it was amazing to have the sea ten steps from my front door. I was really able to relax, recharge my batteries and just catch up on my reading, painting and learning to do nothing! I will definitely be back and will recommend this to all.
We had a wonderful time at the Apothikes Beach Suites. Lying awake at night listening to the waves was incredible. Each morning we would wake up and have a coffee outside on the beach whilst pinching ourselves that this was real! It was the most relaxing holiday I have ever had. Fabulous, quiet and in an unspoilt location. The organisation by Simpson Travel was brilliant – thank you all so much. We can’t wait for next year when we will definitely return.
Paradise. Please don’t tell too many people.
Stunning location, secluded accommodation - we had a very relaxing holiday.
If you want excellence at all levels, I do not think you could be disappointed with Simpson Travel. They attend to the little details, starting with when you book your holiday to when you drop off your vehicle at the end! As we all know, it is the small touches that shift anything from 'good enough' to excellent – and that is what you get. A very happy 'Simpson Traveller'.
My husband and I stayed in Apothikes to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary. It was the perfect spot for a second honeymoon and although we felt we really should explore the island a little more, we found it impossible to drag ourselves away from our perfect little spot in paradise...nothing beats waking up to the waves lapping against the shore and the sun beating through the shutters every morning.
A lovely, relaxing place. The location on the beach was perfect and the sound of the waves lapping just outside was very special. We had a very easy, relaxing and special holiday. Everything was organised so well that any portal stress were taken out of the equation before we arrived. A door-to-door service really, we wouldn't hesitate to recommend both the villa and Simpson Travel to anyone.
We came here with the best intentions of exploring this coastline but we could not bear to tear ourselves away from this wonderful, tranquil spot. It has been dreamy to open the door each morning to see this sight of the sea and hear the sound of the lapping waves. The villa is exquisitely simple and comfortable – comfortable bed linen and an excellently equipped kitchen was much appreciated. Dimitri and his family are truly magnificent hosts. Thank you Evie for being delightfully helpful and not remotely intrusive. This was our first holiday with Simpson Travel, but not to be our last.
A lovely relaxing week at Apothikes beach suites – a beautiful location. Thank you to Evie.
We've had a fantastic time! Idyllic setting – we really couldn't have asked for more. So peaceful and relaxed in the day. We would highly suggest barbecue-ing on the beach – had such fabulous food and paired with the stunning location and some local wine, the experience was incredible and will be very difficult to beat!
I feel like I have died and gone to heaven here! I cannot fault this beautiful house in this beautiful location. I have just had the most relaxing week with my husband and daughter. The only downside is that I have to leave today. I will return but for two weeks next time. Everything has been perfect – from this island to our lovely, friendly and very accommodating travel rep. Evie, thank you!
Kakkos Bay is an incredibly beautiful setting and the apartment being right on the beach is a rare treat indeed. We enjoyed the apartment and setting so much we could hardly bring ourselves to get in the car to have a look around! Everyone we dealt with was friendly and helpful. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this holiday and can't wait to return to Crete to enjoy the blissful relaxation again.
What a superb location! Everything is perfect. My only regret is having to go home. This was my first visit to Crete and I would certainly want to come back in the future. I love cooking and so it was with great joy I found all the equipment for proper meal preparation. In many self-catering holiday apartments one finds the basics but not things like cheese graters, vegetable peelers, baking trays, garlic crushers, etc. I even managed to bake a batch of rolls! The welcome pack of provisions was fantastic and generous. Thanks Simpson Travel! We had lovely neighbours and shared a few meals with them. The shops had everything we needed and local tavernas were friendly and generous, with kind touches like a free Greek dessert and a shot of Raki at the end of our meal. I could go on and on but suffice to say this was a pure delight – a little piece of paradise – and I would definitely consider returning in the near future. Evie was a star – so helpful and friendly – and everyone went out of their way to make our stay memorable.
Spectacular location – we loved being so close to the sea! Lovely accommodation. Fabulous week, shame to go but hope to come back.
We have really enjoyed our week in Apothikes Beach Suites. The beach is lovely and great for snorkelling and how wonderful to have the sea one minute away! We did spend a lot of time on our own 'private' beach, why wouldn't you? This is a lovely spot – great to sit out and have breakfast looking at the sparkling sea. We had a great relaxing holiday and we will most definitely return!
An idyllic two weeks in Apothikes Beach Suites – ours being the only one occupied. To open the door each morning onto the sparkling sea, the sun gently filtered by the tamarisk tree was always a joy. The tranquillity of the days was glorious. The local taverna is convenient, and there are many others to try. Shopping is also easy, with large supermarkets in Ierapetra and many smaller ones along the main road. We would like to thank Evie, the Simpson Travel rep, for her help and guidance and Marrilo, who kept the apartment spotless.
What an idyllic location – so relaxing and right on the beach. Opening the window early morning and getting back in to bed with that sea breeze and sound of the lapping waves – unforgettable. Perfect place for children – our 4-year-old twin daughters enjoyed the beach here.
Our choice of Greek properties is as diverse as the islands themselves, ranging from simple seaside charm to genuine luxury and style. Much of our portfolio is privately owned, and price alone is therefore not a universal guide. We contract all our accommodation in person, and each property has its individual appeal. To help you make the right choice based on your own priorities, we have devised a simple grading guide to be considered in conjunction with each individual property description, awarding up to a maximum of five stars for the below categories.
* For further clarification on Facilities and Amenities, please view the 'Details' tab for each property or speak to one of our experienced sales consultants.
A destination where tourism is not the local raison d’être, this is a place to relax unreservedly into a life by the sea. The landscape is rugged – mountains, gorges and rocky hillsides scattered with tiny villages and ancient ruins – but some of Crete’s finest beaches belong here too. Among them are spectacular Xerokambos and palm-fringed Vai, whilst Palekastro is one of Europe’s favourite windsurfing spots. And there are plenty of excellent waterfront tavernas where the passing of time is best marked by the waves rolling in nearby.
To the south of the region you'll find Makrygialos, an unpretentious one-time fishing village bordering a magnificent sandy beach by the warm Libyan Sea. It's a little more commercial here these days but the real draw is its extraordinary position close to some of Crete's most spectacular scenery and traditional villages. A visit to Pefki is a must, not least to dine at the pretty taverna where the ingredients are locally sourced and prepared in the traditional way to mouthwatering effect. With outstanding views across the southern coastline, there can be nowhere finer to enjoy lunch before indulging in a walk down the Pefki Gorge for a refreshing dip in the sea.
To base yourself in this idyllic destination, visit our collection of handpicked villas in and around Palekastro & Eastern Crete or take a look at our boutique Simpson Hotels.
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