77 Xirosterni - renovated Cretan village house

One of two properties available in the peaceful traditional village of Xirosterni. 77 Xirosterni is a beautiful, unique and lovingly renovated 100 year old 1 bedroom house, ideal for a couple. Traditional, ecological and reclaimed materials were used throughout, retaining as much of the character of the original property as possible, while sensitively updating to provide a comfortable living space throughout the year. This traditionally yet comfortably styled house has one very spacious and airy bedroom with large double bed upstairs, plus small table and chairs for reading or working, leading out onto a roof terrace with village and mountain views. Downstairs comprises a cosy sitting and dining room with plenty of furniture for sitting and lounging, and a dining table seating 4. There is also a fully equipped handmade country style kitchen and bespoke Moroccan style shower room and toilet. The thick stone walls of the house ensure a pleasant temperature in summer without the need for air con. A woodburning stove provides heat for chilly evenings. Outside is a spacious and secluded vine covered walled courtyard with old stone table and benches for al fresco dining, seating up to 8 people, and outdoor furniture for relaxing on. A small shed houses the washing machine and water tank. The garden contains lemon trees, beautifully scented roses, flowers and herbs, as well as different areas for eating, sitting and sunbathing. A special feature as you enter the external door of the property is the old "hayat" or entrance shelter, a simple rustic space with large bench and chairs for sitting and relaxing in the cool shade. The house is also available to rent together with a renovated barn studio apartment, providing accommodation for up to 5 - perfect for 2 couples, or 1 couple with older children. The barn is also an ideal workspace separate from the house. To rent both together, please see listing "Renovated house and barn in rural Cretan village" for details. If you rent the house alone, the barn will not be occupied, ensuring your complete privacy. Ideal as an artists retreat. Registration number: ΑΜΑ (Phone number hidden by Airbnb) We live in the next village, a 5 minute drive from the property, so will be on hand if needed. We are also available on the phone, email, (Hidden by Airbnb) etc. Xirosterni is a beautiful small traditional Cretan village. It has a well stocked mini market with friendly staff, and a taverna/kafeneion with a simple & good Cretan menu, both in easy walking distance. The larger historical villages of Vamos, Gavalohori, and Kefalas are all within a 5 minute drive, with many more coffee shops/tavernas/mini markets plus bakeries. Vamos also hosts an excellent and informative Tourist Information Office. The area is excellent for walking, there are many different tracks and trails, some of which are accessible without a car. The area is also popular with keen cyclists, although hilly! The small sandy beach of Almyrida is within a 10 minute drive, and the larger beaches of Kalyves and Georgioupolis are also easily accessible by car. The beautiful cities of Chania and Rethymno are around 40 minutes drive away. The property is around 45 minutes drive from Chania airport, and around 1 hour 50 minutes drive from Heraklion. A car is essential to really make the most of your stay - there are no local buses from the village. You can park right outside the property. There are beautiful walks you can take directly from the property.