Villa Velanidia
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- Attractive and idyllic stone house
- A charming retreat for two
- Delightful mature gardens
- Unspoilt Crete at its best
- Short walk to taverna
This attractive stone-built house is a charming retreat for two, within walking distance of the historic village of Amnatos and its traditional taverna. Villa Velanidia is set in extensive private grounds, filled with citrus and olive groves interspersed with the majestic oak trees from which the house takes its name. The outdoor dining terrace is a wonderful spot for breakfast, fresh from a dip in the pool. You can spend the whole day here in blissful seclusion, enjoying the sea views from the gardens and the terrace. Close by is the historically significant monastery of Arkadi and the Kapsaliana Village Hotel which showcases traditional crafts, cuisine and architecture. This is also an excellent base from which to explore the Roman city of Eleftherna and the ceramics centre of Margarites.
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
Layout
- 1 bedroom villa (sleeps 2)
Ground floor
- Open-plan living/dining/kitchen area with TV (English speaking news channels), DVD player
- Kitchen includes oven, hob, fridge-freezer, microwave, dishwasher
- Double bedroom (150cm x 200cm bed)
- Shower room
General
- Complimentary WiFi
- Air-conditioned
- Safe
- Iron, ironing board, hairdryer, pool and bath towels
- Washing machine (in storage area)
- Barbecue
- Outdoor dining terrace
- Private swimming pool 8m x 4m (depth 1.2m – 1.5m)
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): 1041K91002965201
Location
- Mini-market 5min drive
- Taverna 10min walk
- Beach 20min drive
- Rethymno 20min drive
- Chania and Heraklion airports 1hr 20min 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 guests – 1 Group C2, Seat Ibiza 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*
The following cars are available as alternatives on request (supplements apply). Please call our travel specialists for details.
Group D2 – Hyundai i30/Seat Leon or similar, 1.4 litre engine, 2 large suitcases*
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 or similar , 1.4 - 2.0 litre engine, 3 large suitcases*
Group E1 - Kia Stonic or similar, 1.0 litre engine, 1 medium and 2 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.
This was our second time staying at Villa Velanidia. A delightfully modern villa set in about a hectare of mature olive trees with vines and a few pomegranate trees. The large pool is surrounded by shrubs and has plenty shade provided by a gazebo, umbrella and a rather large lemon tree which supplied us with enough vitamin C to keep scurvy at bay. Featuring a small patio to the east and a balcony to the north which has an uninterrupted view of the Kritikó Pélagos (the sea of Crete), there is plenty of choice as to where to enjoy breakfast, lunch or supper with either sunshine or shade depending upon the time of day. The property is located just 15 Km south east of the bustling town of Rethimno in the northern foothills of the Mt Psiloritis and just short walk from the village of Amnatos. Amnatos, with its population of a mere 120 local residents, has two tavernas and the Hotel resort of Kapsaliana, which provide a more than adequate choice for meals. Be they basic Greek fare or more up market fine dining, all tastes are catered for. Further tavernas can be found no more than 10 mins drive away in the villages of Kiriana, Asteri and Chamalevri. As ever with Simpson Travel, the concierge, Vasilis, and the Owner ensured that this was the most relaxing experience one could look forward to. With the pool regularly cleaned and the villa serviced mid-week as well at half time we felt well at home in the tranquillity of the hills with just the song of the cicadas and the squadrons of swallows, who would drink of the pool, for company. We enjoyed uninterrupted sunshine during our two week stay and, despite the high temperatures, ventured to Knossos, Phaistos, Matala, Spili and Chora Sfakion through some marvellous gorges and over some spectacular mountain roads. Villa Velanidia is truly a delightful location and ideally suited for travel through most, if not all of central Crete. BUT even more importantly as a haven to return to at the end of a long hot day to just CHILL! We hope to return again, but the next time perhaps in the cooler weather.
We had a wonderful week at Villa Velanidia and wish it could have been for longer. There is so much to see and do in this region of Crete and a week isn't long enough. The villa was lovely, spacious, comfortable and peaceful, set in a beautiful garden with a great, if rather chilly pool (time of year) and very well equipped. Vasilis was helpful and knowledgable and easily contacted and his restaurant recommendations were spot on. The car hire company was also excellent and came to our rescue when we got a puncture and couldn't get the wheel off. Apparently a hefty blow on the inside of the wheel with a piece of scaffolding pipe is what is required! Unfortunately we did not meet the villa owners but would like to thank them very much for the use of their lovely villa and the delicious cake they left for us. The landscape in this region of Crete is spectacular and drive through the Amari valley is a must. We were blessed with fantastic weather throughout our stay. All in all, a really wonderful holiday.
A lovely secluded and quiet villa, with a great view and lots of interesting plants in the garden. The pool was very well maintained, but slightly on the chilly side for September. Our thanks to Stavros for his lovely honey and olive oil. Thanks also for the delicious cake on arrival. Thank you, Theresa, for all your hard work keeping the villa spotless and our lovely conversations (with the aid of Google Translate!). And final thanks to Vasilis for his ideas on things to do and for being so bright and helpful in times of need.
A wonderfully relaxing week. Thank you Stavros, for sharing this villa with us. We also found time for lots of relaxing at the villa. We’ve stayed in a number of Simpson properties but this is by far the best for privacy and seclusion. It has been an absolute joy spending time here and we’ll remember our trip fondly.
A wonderful place to spend a honeymoon! Perfect villa in a perfect location, we couldn’t have asked for anything better. While we spent most of our time by the lovely pool, some precipitous driving routes through the mountains and the views were highlights, as well as picking our way down the Patsos Gorge. Thank you to the villa owners for your wonderful cake, the beautiful garden and setting, and to Vasilis for his encyclopaedic knowledge of places to go and things to do. We will always remember this special place.
After three days at Avli Hotel in Rethymnon, this was, as expected, a complete contrast. Avli was perfect for a city break and their tasting menu, with olive oils and wine pairings was an interesting, informative and most enjoyable meal. Bul Villa Velanidia has been superb! An absolute oasis when temperatures have peaked at 37C. We found the little tavernas to be the best, local food, local people and a feel of Crete. If the holiday wasn’t perfect, Simpson’s rep, Vasilis, would have made sure it would have been. It was an absolute pleasure to meet him and listen to his love of the island. A more helpful, cheerful, professional rep would be hard to find! Thank you Vasilis and Simpson. Thank you Theresa – the place was spotless – and thank you Stavros for letting us share this place.
The combination of a three day stay in a boutique city hotel, followed by a week in a secluded villa in a rural location was perfect. It enabled us to taste both worlds, fine dining in the hotel and self catering plus seeking out tavernas from the villa. Both properties were of the highest standard we have to come to expect from Simpson Travel.
A beautiful peaceful location. The villa was set in a wonderful, well-kept garden. Just the sounds of birds and frogs.
I cannot thank our concierge enough for all she did for us, above and beyond I would say. The villa lived up to the Simpson “a road less traveled" to the tee and we really enjoyed our stay although it was rather short. The website does not give it justice only our opinion.
This is our fifth or sixth visit to Crete with Simpson so haven’t had the pressure to go and visit places. This is a very nice villa to relax in – most of the noise is birdsong and frogs. Thanks to Kostoula and Vasilis for advice and sorting out any little problems. Thanks to Stavros for looking after the house and garden so beautifully.
Another wonderful week with Simpson Travel. A beautiful outside space, which tempted us to spend lots of time here. We’ve had a lovely week visiting Crete, which was new to us. The villa provided us with everything we could ask for. Finally, many thanks to Kostoula who went over and above for our food shop. Owner’s homemade cake was good too. Simpson’s ‘the road less travelled’ certainly provided the ambiance and relaxation – again!
The villa is just as described , very private, a beautiful garden and a lovely pool. The perfect get away!
This is an idyllic property for a couple looking for a secluded but well equipped place to get away from it all. The villa is in the perfect position to visit all of the best attractions that Crete has to offer, without the brash hustle and bustle of the north coast resorts. The addition of a lovely private pool is just the icing on a delicious cake.
The villa was just what we wished for and yet again Simpson Travel have done wonders at finding such a great location, a very pleasant owner and great staff on Crete to ensure all went smoothly. Thank you so very much for getting the extra wines and honey for us. We managed to get through all but a few drops of the honey with our breakfast each day and the wines were very pleasant. We feel we must return, probably in 2 years as we are already scheduled for Corsica with Simpson in ’23, to enable us to catch up on more of the culture, see more of the towns and villages and just enjoy the lovely food and wines that Crete has to offer.
A delightfully tranquil villa, very well appointed and within easy access of quite a few good restaurants/tavernas. An ideal spot to relax and take in the ambiance and history of Crete.
All aspects of our holiday worked very smoothly from initial advice on location in Crete – different villa options, pre-departure information, flights, welcome at airport, collection of car plus all contact/advice from Klaudia, the western Crete representative. Very good quality villas.
All in all the holiday was exactly what we were looking for. The villa was comfortable and secluded with very attractive gardens, patios and pool area. Ideal for a relaxing break, yet with good access to interesting destinations in the nearby mountains and south coast.
Excellent villa, quiet and peaceful by day, beautiful mature garden with a lovely pool. Located just outside the village of Amnatos, about 25 minutes’ drive from Rethymnon. A good base from which to explore central Crete.
Wonderful holiday again with Simpson in a lovely villa with a beautiful garden and pool in a location so peaceful and secluded where the only sounds are birdsong and cicadas while we watch the acrobatics of the swallows dipping in the pool – total bliss!
An excellent tranquil villa, a little off the beaten track, so own transport needed. We were pleased that we decided to have a taxi transfer as our arrival was late at night, and I think we may have had a problem finding it up windy mountain roads.
Villa Velandia is a wonderful property set in stunning grounds in great surroundings. We would recommend the Taverna in Amnitos for both food and drink. The landlady is very friendly. Just be aware that the meat dishes are just that (a huge plate of meat), best to get one meat dish and one veggie dish and share amongst yourselves. We found the military museum at Chromonastiri a great place to visit. Greek National Service men available as guides and the most amazing public conveniences ever encountered at a visitor attraction!
We much echo all the enthusiastic comments about Villa Velanida in the villa book. Wonderfully quiet and private with an impressive array of plants and trees. The pool is discreetly and very well maintained. Ray is friendly and helpful and dealt with some very minor quibbles. We must also thank Velanida’s owners for their gastronomical treats. The housekeeping is top quality and I even found my crumpled pyjamas neatly folded and buttoned!
Very relaxing week in this fab villa. So peaceful and we loved watching the swifts diving over the pool. Enjoyed the local taverna and the Kapsaliana Village Hotel. Botanical gardens worth a trip and loved Panormo. Thanks to the owners for the food gifts and to Ray for his advice and the biscuits.
We had a lovely, relaxing week. The weather was perfect. We enjoyed the taverna in the village and a meal at the hotel. Monastery well worth a visit. We will come to Crete again. Thank you for the eggs and Simpson Travel’s gift. Thanks to Ray too!
A lovely villa in peaceful surroundings. Thanks to the owner for their lemon cake and other gifts. Thanks to Ray for his tips, advice and prompt assistance when needed. Panormo, on the coast, east of Stavenos, is well worth a visit for lunch in relaxed style overlooking the harbour. We liked the ‘Captain’s Horse’. Surrounding villages provide lovely local food in traditional tavernas. Thanks finally to Simpson Travel for their gift.
Simpson Travel made the booking, travelling and car hire experiences stress free. Villa Velanidia was more than we expected. It is in quiet a rural setting with a Greek feel in attractive gardens. The location is excellent for touring this part of the island. We would recommend this to others and will return ourselves.
Villa Velanidia – excellent location, superb facilities and help and advice from Ray, the Simpson Travel representative. And the weather was warm and sunny all week!
Thank you Yianni and Stavros for the lovely stay in Villa Velanidia and to Ray, the Simpson Travel representative, for his ‘back up’. The swims in the pool were invigorating! We enjoyed exploring/discovering places and found the locals friendly and helpful. Our favourite trip was to Spinalonga via a short boat ride from Plaka, as in Victoria Hislop’s novel ‘The Island’.
We had a blissful week at Villa Velanidia – beautiful surroundings encouraging tranquillity.
Thank you Yanni and Stavros for the cake and lovely stay in the villa. Thanks to Ray too for the ‘back up’. Swims in the pool were invigorating! We ate at Maria’s taverna, Kaphleio (for three evenings), a short drive into Amnastes village – good simple Greek food and she tells you the day’s choices. We enjoyed exploring/discovering places and found the locals friendly and helpful. Favourite trip was to Spinalonga via a short boat ride from Plaka, as in Victoria Hislop’s novel ‘The Island’. Road signs depend on what side on you are on! We have given the goats, cows, dogs and cats around here warning not to sit and stand in the middle of the road!
Many thanks to all your well-informed, friendly staff for a wonderfully relaxing holiday in beautiful surroundings. The villa was spotless, the welcome pack was generous and much appreciated; and most importantly, you were there with help and information when we needed it but sensitive to our desire for solitude and rest otherwise. We look forward to our next holiday with you as soon as possible!
We loved Villa Velanidia, which is set in an olive grove with great sea views and a lovely pool. Perfect location for exploring the island in a quiet secluded spot in the hills but with the advantage of being a short drive to the coast and walking distance to some lovely places to eat.
Simpson Travel never disappoint in all the many, many years we have been customers – often two or three times a year. From my family of 10 celebrating my 70th to helping with assisted boarding, the company excels itself. Travel reps are always helpful and knowledgeable – particularly Ray in Crete – every time we visit!
The villa, with a beautiful garden, was a perfect relaxing setting for two weeks.
This was undoubtedly the best quality villa that we have stayed in over many years. The back-up service from Ray, the local rep, was excellent with a wealth of practical advice. The service from the owners too was superb, with extra food items, olive oil, raki, and even a cake halfway through the week of our stay. The pool was cleaned three times and the villa once in that short time. Unbelievable service! This was our first stay with Simpson Travel, and we intend that it will be the first of many. Thank you so much for making this a wonderful break for us. Just what we needed.
Very pretty and beautifully maintained villa, with an exquisite garden in a ravishing setting, with good access to the coast, historic sites and pretty villages and towns.
A beautiful villa with a perfect garden and pool. We loved all the areas you can sit in and we had blue skies and sun every day.
Villa Velanidia is in a fantastic secluded location. We had a wonderful week here and Stavros and Yianni were perfect hosts – Yianni's homemade cake is delicious! Ideally situated to explore the countryside but also close enough to visit Rethymnon. Our special thanks to Ray for being so informative and helpful.
Overall experience with Simpson Travel was a great one. We chose Simpson because their properties looked luxurious and it was our honeymoon. We were not disappointed. The villa was gorgeous and of high quality. It was regularly cleaned and the local representative was really helpful. They even brought us a bottle of champagne to welcome us and congratulate us on our wedding. We had a perfect two weeks of perfect bliss and would definitely use Simpson Travel again in the future.
A wonderful relaxing week...thanks to Ray for all the valuable information and tips. Thank you to the villa owners for their care and attention and gifts of delicious cake, eggs and figs. Crete is a beautiful island and we leave determined to return and spend more time here. Just the tonic we needed.
Another great Simpson Travel holiday (No. 16!). Villa Velanidia has everything you could need for a truly relaxing holiday.
Wonderful villa, glorious setting, meticulous Simpson Travel organisation. What more could you want?
We have enjoyed a wonderfully relaxing time in this beautiful villa. The weather has been fabulous and we have made full use of the pool.
We came here for a relaxing holiday and that's what we have had. A lovely, idyllic location, beautiful garden and villa kept to a very high standard.
Villa Velanidia has been exactly what we needed, a relaxing break in beautiful surroundings. The villa has everything you could want or need. The aerobatic display from the swifts has been a daily marvel over the swimming pool.
A perfect holiday in an idyllic location – we can't wait to come again.
Lovely holiday in an idyllic location. The beautiful garden and pool made it very hard to travel too far afield.
Lovely well maintained villa with large swimming pool and beautiful views. We found the double bed comfortable. Hotel with restaurant, just a short walk away, is Greek Chic in style, the house red wine is very good, nice for an evening out without driving.
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, please view the 'Details' tab for each property or speak to one of our experienced sales consultants.
As the birthplace of Zeus, Central Crete carries a certain historic and spiritual gravitas. Knossos, the Minoan Bronze Age palace, steals the show, but there are many other smaller archaeological sites, churches and towns to cast you back in time. However, with harbourside dining, beautiful beaches, mountain villages and vibrant summer festivals, the here and now also has a lot to offer. And Rethymno, which has clung on to much of its authentic beauty and charm, is a welcome addition to your island experience.
Visit our collection of handpicked villas and hotels in Rethymno and Central Crete to create the perfect starting point for your holiday.
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