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Welcome to a traditional Cretan village, 3km from the sea. Happy New Year

Welcome to a traditional Cretan village, 3km from the sea. Happy New Year

Photo gallery for Welcome to a traditional Cretan village, 3km from the sea. Happy New Year

The lounge area in Daisy.
The kitchen and dining area.
The new king size bed in the Master bedroom at the front of the property.
View from inside the Master bedroom showing the balcony, table and chairs.
The view from the Master bedroom at the front of the property.

Overview of Welcome to a traditional Cretan village, 3km from the sea. Happy New Year

Reviews
9.8 out of 10 Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 470 sq m

Popular amenities

  • PoolPoolPool
  • Hot tubHot tubHot tub
  • KitchenKitchenKitchen
  • Barbecue grillBarbecue grillBarbecue grill
  • WasherWasherWasher
  • Air conditioningAir conditioningAir conditioning

Check out the area

Map
Heraklion, Crete
  • Popular LocationMuseum of El Greco16 min walk
  • Popular LocationFódele Beach5 min drive
  • Popular LocationAgia Pelagia Beach13 min drive
  • AirportHeraklion (HER-Nikos Kazantzakis)30 min drive

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Welcome to a traditional Cretan village, 3km from the sea. Happy New Year

DAISY AND THE VILLAGE OF FODELE.

Daisy is in a small development (Mandarin Grove) of 8 properties with a shared pool. It is located close to the heart of an authentic Cretan village. The local people have made a decision for the village to retain its original character. There are:

NO cash machines;

NO British newspapers.

The tavernas DO NOT take Travellers Cheques and few tourists stay in the village.

Daisy is situated in a lovely location...’Orange valley' enjoying unspoilt MOUNTAIN VIEWS which can be seen both from the bedroom balconies and the roof terrace.

Some guests like to visit local resorts such as FODELE BEACH and AGIA PELAGIA before returning to the village for their evening meal.

The village itself has a special character. Very little has changed over many decades. The locals are proud of their association with EL GRECO and the fact that the village can sustain itself through local crafts, farming, farm produce and the visitors who come to see this special village. The local tavernas provide a variety of cuisine and some provide a take-away service.

The CHURCHES in the village are beautiful and remain the focus of village life. Christenings and weddings are attended by the whole village. You can witness the feast in the village square accompanied by local musicians and traditional Greek dancing.

DAISY ACCOMODATION.

LOUNGE...

New, comfortable SOFA and CHAIR; ample room for 4 people;
Toshiba TV with integral DVD;
A selection of fiction/non-fiction BOOKS;
Mirror;
Table Lamps;
Table and coasters;
Air conditioning (remote control).


KITCHEN...

Oven + induction hob;
Fridge;
Dishwasher;
Toaster;
Kettle;
Crockery;
Cutlery;
Pans
(the washing machine is located in an enclosed area in the back garden).


DINING AREA...

Table (which can be moved) and breakfast bar;
4 height adjustable chairs;
Table mats and coasters.
Ample room for 4 guests.


DOWNSTAIRS BATHROOM...

Bath with shower;
Toilet,
Sink;
Shower curtain;
Mirror;
Fully tiled.


SPIRAL STAIRCASE TO UPPER FLOOR.


UPSTAIRS.

FRONT BEDROOM...

New king size bed + linen;
Wardrobe;
Drawers;
Bedside cabinets and lights;
Hairdryer;
Mirror;
Chair;
TV with integral DVD (for DVD use only);
Air conditioning (remote control);
Patio doors (plus fly screen) onto the balcony;
Shutters to the outside for privacy.

FRONT BALCONY...

Table and 2 chairs;
Beautiful mountain views.


BACK BEDROOM...

New king size bed and linen;
Wardrobe;
Drawers;
Bedside cabinets and lights;
Mirror;
Air conditioning (remote control);
Patio doors (and fly screen) leading onto a small BALCONY;
Shutters to the outside of the doors for privacy).


UPSTAIRS SHOWER ROOM...

Shower cubicle;
Toilet;
Sink;
Fully tiled.

SPIRAL STAIRCASE UP TO THE ROOF TERRACE.


BACK GARDEN...

Table + 4 chairs;
Washing machine in an enclosed area;
Clothes rail;
Flower border and tubs.


FRONT PATIO...

Tiled undercover area;
Table and 2 chairs.

SWIMMING POOL, HOT TUB, and OUTDOOR SHOWER.

These facilities are shared by the 8 properties and provide a focal area for Mandarin Grove.

OUTDOOR TABLES, CHAIRS, SUNBEDS and UMBRELLAS.

These are situated around the pool for your comfort and convenience.



DURING YOUR STAY - CARE OF DAISY...PLEASE NOTE...

Daisy is furnished to a high standard...a Cretan feel with a touch of John Lewis! We would appreciate it if our guests would LOOK AFTER Daisy as if it was their own home and ensure that children are supervised for their own safety and well being. We appreciate that damage can occur but do not want the type of damage that is caused by children who are out of control or adults who have little respect for a holiday property. If this note of caution is acceptable to you, we have no doubt that your stay will be an enjoyable one.

Providing there are no new guests arriving on your day of departure, there will be no pressure for you to check out before you are due to leave for your flight home. If new guests are arriving that day, we will make every effort to ensure that you can use the facilities on site.

MANDARIN GROVE.

Daisy is situated within the GATED community of Mandarin Grove. It is separated from the village by a river; hence away from traffic so children can play safely.


TRIP ADVISOR 2017 CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE.

We are very proud that Daisy has been awarded the 2017 Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor. This is a testimony to the care shown by our guests and the diligence of our site managers. Thank you.


SAFETY AND SECURITY.

The safety and security of our guests is paramount. As such, and we DO NOT allow unauthorised guests to visit Mandarin Grove or use the facilities. Owners and guests ONLY, please. Thank you.


UPON ARRIVAL.

Prior to departure we will issue you with 2 KEY CODES...

1. to access the key for the front GATE (located just inside the gate within easy reach);
2. to access the house keys in a key safe outside DAISY.


THINGS TO DO.

You will find much to occupy you in the village...

Multiple TAVERNAS each with their own specialities;
Gentle exercise on the various NATURE TRAILS;
Visit the local CHURCHES churches which are very beautiful;
Visit the MUSEUM that commemorates El Greco and Fodele, his birthplace.

Unlike the resorts, Fodele remains open throughout the year. For many visitors, it is a reminder of the 1950's.


PROXIMITY TO THE SEA.
.
Fodele will appeal to those who wish to be close to sea but would prefer to stay in a proper Cretan village. Fodele Beach is only 2 miles away from the village and it is lovely bay with a sandy beach.. Buy a drink at the taverna and your deck chair is provided FREE!


YOUR JOURNEY TO CRETE.

Direct flights to Crete are available from APRIL - OCTOBER. HERAKLION airport is approximately a 30 minute car ride from Fodele.

BOOKING A TAXI.

Should you wish to pre book a taxi at the airport, we can assist you. Please ask.

NB. Please tell your driver to take you to Fodele VILLAGE (not Fodele Beach).

CAR HIRE

You will probably find the cheapest deals on comparison websites like Travel Supermarket.

Alternatively, you can book direct with companies like Athens cars.

Our advice is to get “full to full” petrol and to be aware of the pressure with some firms to upgrade your policy. If you need the peace of mind of extra cover, it is cheaper to book it in advance


DIRECTIONS TO FODELE VILLAGE BY CAR.

Fodele village is approximately 30km from Heraklion airport. The CAR HIRE depot is ACROSS THE ROAD from the airport building.

Detailed DIRECTIONS as follows:

1 Leave the airport parking area, towards the traffic lights and bus stop. Stay in the RIGHT HAND lane;

2. Turn RIGHT at the lights (stay in the RIGHT HAND lane);

3. Look for a sign to RETHYMNON/ CHANIA. The slip road is about 200 metres further on;

4. Now on the HIGHWAY. Drive for approximately 25km;

On this road you will encounter the following...

The Highway will change from dual to SINGLE carriageway, you will pass a power station on your RIGHT.

The road becomes winding and uphill. Continue on this road.
.
Pass a BP petrol station; you are now in the Agia Pelagia area;

The highway now goes DOWNHILL; you will pass another petrol station on the right. Fodele BEACH is to your right;

Continue for a further 300 metres, where there is a large junction signposted FODELE.

5. TURN RIGHT here.

6. Follow this winding road for about 3km until you pass through the village and reach the VILLAGE SQUARE (a large TREE, El Greco TAVERNA and SOUVENIR STREET will be on your LEFT). Park anywhere in the village square.


TO WALK TO DAISY:

1. Retrace your steps back down the narrow high street for about 150 METRES. You will reach a FOOT BRIDGE on the left (DOMENICO’S TAVERNA and THE 4 SEASONS SHOP will be on the right).

2. Walk across the footbridge and immediately turn left;

3. Walk along the path adjoining the river for 150metres and you will see a high wall on your right, sign posted Mandarin Grove. You have ARRIVED.

You will be given a code for the box to open the GATE. Go inside and pass the pool. Daisy is the FOURTH PROPERTY ON THE RIGHT.

There is a key safe by Daisy’s front door. Again you will be given the code to open it. There will be 2 keys inside : one to the outside gate and one to Daisy. Please RETURN THEM to the key safe on your DEPARTURE.

Please do not hesitate to ask further questions before you go.

Thank you.


WHY SHOULD YOU VISIT DAISY?

1. Fodele is an authentic working village, with a unique history and old world charm;

2. It is cheaper than the holiday resorts;

3. The tavernas are abundant, reasonable and on the doorstep. Their home made dishes are wonderful;

4. Eat by the village stream or barbecue in the privacy of Mandarin Grove.

5. It is a safe environment for children ; there is no road access to Mandarin Grove.

6. A lovely beach is under 5 minutes drive away;

7. Should you hire a car you will find Crete to be a magical island; we are centrally placed to visit all areas.

8. Daisy is a proper home and not a characterless tourist property;

9. TV/DVD combo, satellite (not Sky); internet access.

10. The views from the balcony and roof terrace are beautiful;

11. The surroundings are orange groves and a wooded park.

12. The visitors' comments are all positive.

13. If all this fails to impress you, the local Raki is 5 Euros for a large bottle!

Thank you for visiting our website.

With best wishes,

Peter and Ann.

Property manager

Peter Jones

Languages

English
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Amenities

Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

House Rules

Flexible check-in available (contact host in advance of arrival)
Flexible check-out available (contact host to arrange)

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Young children should be accompanied on the stairs

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No outsiders must be invited to enter Mandarin Grove
Please look after Daisy as your own house
Please can you take your rubbish bags and leave them by the telegraph pole opposite El Greco restaurant. Thank you so much.

Damage and incidentals

You will be responsible for any damage to the rental property caused by you or your party during your stay.

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

We should mention

Cash transactions at this property cannot exceed EUR 500, due to national regulations; for further details, please contact the property using the information in the booking confirmation
A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Fodele

Located in Malevizi, this holiday home is in a rural area and by the sea. Tylissos and Hania Gate are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Heraklion Port and Stay Wet. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Pankritio Stadium or Theodoros Vardinogiannis Stadium. Discover the area's water adventures with waterskiing and sailing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails and mountain climbing.
Map
Heraklion, Crete

What's nearby

  • Museum of El Greco - 16 min walk
  • Fódele Beach - 5 min drive
  • Agia Pelagia Beach - 13 min drive
  • Mononaftis Beach - 14 min drive
  • Heraklion Port - 29 min drive

Getting around

  • Heraklion (HER-Nikos Kazantzakis) - 31 min drive

Restaurants

  • Γρηγόρης - 10 min drive
  • Almyra - 13 min drive
  • Buondi Cafe - 13 min drive
  • Cochili - 14 min drive
  • The Home - 13 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Welcome to a traditional Cretan village, 3km from the sea. Happy New Year have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool.

Is Welcome to a traditional Cretan village, 3km from the sea. Happy New Year pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

Where is Welcome to a traditional Cretan village, 3km from the sea. Happy New Year located?

Situated by the sea, this holiday home is 0.8 mi (1.3 km) from Museum of El Greco and 2 mi (3.2 km) from Fódele Beach. Péra Galínoi Beach and Peninsula Private Beach are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 7 out of 8 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 8 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 8 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 8 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 8 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

David C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A beautiful place to stay
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in this apartment situated in the beautiful village of Fodele. Our apartment was a very comfy home from home experience and provided everything that you could need. The Village has half a dozen Taverna's which offer amazing home cooked traditional food, the Locals are friendly, helpful and extremely accommodating to holiday makers . We would like to return to Crete one day and will recommend our experience to family and friends.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Jim C.

Most relaxing holiday ever
Fodele is probably the most relaxing holiday destination We have ever visited. This really is a gem of a place, just touristy enough to have good restaurants and bars but not over commercialised or noisy. Everything is within a lovely 2-5minute stroll of Mandarin Grove (if you can tear yourself away from the poolside which is set amongst the most beautiful scenery). Paul and Angie really look after everything and ensure you have no worries during your stay. We stayed in Daisy, a lovely, clean, well appointed cottage, which has wifi, to video, and all modern kitchen appliances. Some nights we cooked fresh local produce (got to try the cheese and the lamb) but most of the time was spent being entertained by Smoothie George..the guy really knows how to make people feel welcome, and his wife Eva whose cooking is just fantastic. We are a family of 3 with a 12 year old daughter and there was just enough to keep everyone entertained for a fortnight. Plenty to do and see nearby...lovely beach at Fodele Beach with tavernas who let you while away the hours on their sun loungers in exchange for buying refreshments from them (at ridiculously affordable prices). But don't just take my word for it...book it and see for yourself.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen B.

A place to recharge our 'batteries.'
A week of bliss, wonderful haven hidden away from the hustle and bustle of life. A chance to recharge the batteries. Apartment was beautifully furnished and maintained. Couldn't fault any of the restaurants, all were so friendly, as was the local people.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

A piece of heaven, away from it all.
As always, a wonderful stay. Fodele is the place to be if you want a calm, peaceful holiday, but with adequate tavernas, a nearby beach and a pool at the apartments. The Manager & his wife, Angie always make you welcome and are always on hand. The apartment has been recently refurbished to a high standard and we were so impressed at our last visit, that we have booked three weeks for 2015. Always a home from home.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Elinor F.

Holiday without the tourists
This villa and the surrounding pool is maintained to a very high standard - the couple who manage the property are on hand to answer questions and ensure everything is working. The thing that is so lovely is that it is only 100 metres from tavernas - but hidden behind trees and enclosed. I liked never having to feel I had to get my " towel on a sunbed"...always plenty - and being able to wander back to the villa without having to pack everything up. The local tavernas are econimocal to eat out at all the time and staff (smoothy George) are welcoming. The local bakery is really close too and worth a walk every morning for fresh bread. Hire a car and just go to explore!

About the host

Hosted by Peter Jones

Host profile image
I am a retired teacher who actually misses the classroom and the busy life in a large Secondary school. Daisy has given my wife and I a wonderful opportunity to become part of Cretan village life and to communicate with a wide mix of guests, most of whom we never actually meet but seem to know so well.

Why they chose this property

It is in the centre of northern Crete, in an unspoilt village 3km from the sea. It is surrounded by trees, the village stream and the village church. The locals are proper ‘Cretans' and there is a unique atmosphere without cash machines or English newspapers. Fodele is open throughout the year. Daisy has been furnished as a home for you to share and enjoy.
Our total aim has been to make you comfortable. The beds are king size and the mattresses are of good quality. The door and patios have nets so there is a welcome breeze without the company of our flying friends. The kitchen is fully equipped with its own seating area. The lounge has settees for your comfort and contains both a small library and a television/DVD for your enjoyment. Internet is available. There is a roof terrace and balconies so that you can appreciate the views and the sky at night.
Fodele is 3km from the main highway in Crete and so has easy access to most area of the island.
Daisy has been awarded a Certificate of excellence for 2017, so you can be assured that we will try our best to make your holiday as memorable as possible.

What makes this property unique

The village is very special in Crete, not least because it is the birthplace of El Greco, the famous painter .It is a favourite village for many of the Crete people, particularly on Sundays.
The village stream is fed by the mountains and it flows throughout the year. It is also home to a unique fauna and flora. It is a society more reminiscent of the 1950's and the area feels very safe. Our house is separated by 2 bridges and 100 metres from any form of motorised transport. The builders found it very difficult !
You can see many reviews on our own website at to see how our guests have enjoyed their holiday. The guest book in Daisy has reviews spanning over 10 years. They are a testimony to the appeal of Daisy, Mandarin Grove, the village of Fodele and the island of Crete.
Many of our guests are repeat customers who have fallen in love with the Cretan life in the village. Some try all the Tavernas, others stay in Domenicos where they are regaled with stories and made a fuss of by Smoothy George.
It has such a central position, 2 miles from the main highway in Crete that you can visit so many places of interest. The historical sites of Knossus and Spinalonga are well documented and the beautiful coastline and mountain splendour is close at hand. You will not be short of advice from the local community.

Languages:

English
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