Local Area Overview

Villa Dana is quietly located in a rural area close to the small rustic village of Prines, yet only 7km from the extensive facilities on offer in the city of Rethymnon. Ideally suited to a those looking for an idyllic ‘away from it all’ holiday, the villa is not too isolated as there is a neighbouring property, Villa Deleni, with local shops and a couple of tavernas just 1.5km away. The nearest beach is a short drive from the villa and offers a choice of water sports including parasailing, sailing, banana boat rides, jet ski-ing and water ski-ing. The surrounding area has pine woods and a dramatic sea gorge. Rethymnon is a large modern city with a charming old town which gained its importance during the 16th and 17th century under Venetian rule. The old quarter is filled with narrow alleys and numerous Turkish houses and minarets reflecting the 250 years when it was ruled by the Turks. There is a Venetian Fortress built to defend the city against attacks by pirates and a picturesque old harbour lined with tavernas offering a great range of freshly caught seafood. The city has a long sandy beach stretching for over 20km which is very popular with holidaymakers throughout the summer season and well served by beachside bars and lively tavernas. In July/August, the city stages a Renaissance Festival and comes alive with folk music and traditional Greek dramas.. Sample locally produced wine in the public gardens during the Wine Festival and join in with the dancing if you are feeling energetic! At any time, Rethymnon has a lively nightlife based around its numerous music bars and dance clubs. Crete is a beautiful island with wonderful opportunities for walkers at all times of year. It is possible to walk all day along the network of trails and paths across varied terrain. Some areas are quite challenging and there are various companies offering guided trails, details of which can be found at the Mountaineering Association in Rethymnon. There are many ancient monasteries and ruins to explore, with over 200 ancient burial chambers having been discovered at nearby Armeni, a Minoan necropolis around 9km from Retyhymnon. Lissos is an ancient town famous for its healing waters flowing from a natural spring, with a small Asklepios temple dedicated to the Greek-Roman God of healing. The most famous archaeological site on the island is the Minoan Palace of Knossos which is 5km from Herakion along the road to Archanes. According to legend, King Minos lived here and the place is associated with the Labyrinth of the Minotaur. Children will love a trip on a ‘real’ pirate ship aboard the Captain Hook or Barbarossa which leave daily from Rethymnon harbour at 9.30am heading for Marthi and Bali respectively. Both ships depart on fun-packed voyages taking in caves and coves on the way. Alternatively, dolphin cruises set out on a quest to see these wonderful creatures and stop for a swim and lunch in a taverna at Panormo.