As a Greek-American mother of Cretan descent, i wanted my husband and four children (ages 16-5) to have the true 'Greek Village Experience' and yet enjoy sandy beaches, tavernas, and Knossos. This house couldn't have been more perfect for us. The village was peaceful and the locals kind and welcoming. Kokkini Chani, complete with supermarkets, sandy beaches, incredible tavernas was less than 10 minutes drive away (yes, you need a car.) The house itself feels like a traditional home with plenty of space, inside and out, and yet has been updated to include all the modern amenities that we have become accustomed to: full kitchen, a/c upstairs (downstairs a/c not needed as it is naturally cool), washing machine, etc. The owners Manolis and Evy were very kind and helpful. Whenever we needed them - they were there. Even when we were leaving and accidentally left one bag in the house, Manolis came to the rescue and opened up the house for us within ten minutes of our call...at 4am! The home was about 20 minute drive from Heraklion and about a little further from Knossos. The monastery of St. John the Theologian is very close but as of early July was only having services on Saturday evenings (vespers) and Sunday mornings. My only concern would be that the spiral staircase (like any spiral staircase) might not be a good idea for families with younger children (under 4.) We spent one week at this home in July 2017 and hopefully, God willing, we will visit again.