In September we spent a week at the Villa Petra 11 Amanda ….what a treat! The villa is set alone on a little hill just a little to the north of Maza village.

We arrived in Chania airport at about 12.30am but were swiftly driving away and following the owner's (Gregory) comprehensive directions found our way easily to the villa. It was, of course, dark when we arrived but parking was easy and soon we had hauled our cases inside and could tell instantly that we had chosen a beautiful place to stay.

The villa can sleep up to 8 people but there were only two of us so we had a choice of bedroom. There are two doubles and one twin with doors opening out to the garden and one mezzanine (most suitable for older children) with access to a lovely balcony. There are also 3 bath/shower rooms. Everything about the villa was beautiful and we very quickly felt at home. See my photos which describe it all better than my words!

The pool and gardens were absolutely beautiful and put paid to any ambition to explore the area too much! We did however visit the taverna in the middle of the village (it’s about 10-15 minutes walk) and were the only tourists there. However, we were made to feel very welcome by both the locals and the owners and we enjoyed some lovely meals cooked by Voula. We especially loved the rabbit stew!

Beside the taverna is an ancient church and if you want to take a look inside just ask Voula to give you the enormous key. This tiny church dates from the 13 century and all the walls and ceilings are covered with frescos.

The whole area is charming and free of tourist trappings, we went for a few walks from the villa but as we know Crete very well (and loved the villa so much!) didn’t go far afield by car but for those who want to get to the coast and some beautiful beaches Georgiouploi is very close and for day to day shopping and more choice of tavernas Vrisses is just a few minutes by car. This really is a lovely area and the villa is the best that we have stayed in in Crete.

For families the grounds of the villa are perfect with lots of space to run and play and I imagine that the badminton net (and equipment) would provide for hours of fun!

Whilst staying at Villa Petra 11 Amanda we also took a look at it’s sister villa - Villa Petra - and this too was absolutely beautiful. It is also set close to the village of Maza but on the other side towards the south.

So, if you are looking for a villa in Crete, don’t hesitate … you are sure to love either of these two lovely places.

So this year we visited the lovely Villa Petra Amanda again. After looking for somewhere new to go across Europe we just couldn't find anywhere that stuck out as well as Amanda. This time there were 8 of us adults! Gregory was hugely accommodating and made the loft room into a lovely bedroom providing fans and privacy for the couple who stayed up there and they loved it! He also provided us with extra sun loungers, a bigger table, more chairs etc. As before he came to see us a couple of days in the make sure everything was OK, which of course it was and then just before we left he came to visit us again with some delicious cheese pies which his mother had made for us. These were amazing!! Thank you once again Gregory - we look forward to booking and seeing you again soon!!

This was a wonderful villa, with a charming rustic decor. All three rooms (plus the mezzanine which can sleep two) are very nicely decorated but also include modern conveniences such as A/C. The pool is fantastic, spacious enough for a good swim and also including a kid's area which is only 60cms deep. The host was very friendly and helpful and made it easier for the children with baby chair and beds being made available. The location is beautful, atop a hill surrounded by olive trees and nothing else, very quiet, and yet only 10 minutes away from the busy beach resort areas. Overall, a wonderful stay, and highly recommended

Petra II, located in an olive grove, is very quiet and calm setting...amneties are great, pillows and bed sheets ckean and comfortable....good kitchen necessities including salt,pepper, a few herbs which are always appreciated. beautiful grounds and very well kept

The perfect villa in a perfect location. The villa has a nice garden and a lot of olive trees. it is very well equipped, spacious, beautiful furniture and comfortable. We traveled with two small children and the owner provided us with baby beds and chairs. There is a small village close by that has couple of taverns where you can eat.