Ondathaki Pirgos

About

Grace and space characterise this meticulously restored country house which dates from the late nineteenth century when Crete was still part of the Ottoman Empire and the property served as a community farm (Ontathaki being the original name from Turkish times)! Stepping through the front entrance a sense of history is immediately apparent. Clues to the property’s intriguing past include the distinctive room distribution and wealth of characterful features, some newly added, others faithfully retained and enhanced by considerate local owners. Attention to detail is evident with vaulted beamed ceilings, walls of exposed stone inset with gnarled antique lintels and floors of parquet, laminated board or cooling ceramic. Creating a most restful atmosphere and perfectly in keeping with the building’s age and ambience, décor is a subtle combination of white and muted pastel shades, interspersed to dramatic effect, with a more vivid splash of colour here and there. Comfort levels have certainly not been overlooked in choosing the eye-catching furnishings which are a handpicked, charmingly eclectic mix of contemporary and more period-style pieces. To one end of the sitting room the original Turkish fireplace has been transformed into a cosy reading nook/small study, an appealing option for any visitor perhaps seeking a more personal space for a quiet moment apart. Fringed by lawn, the private swimming pool and adjacent sun terrace may be an irresistible invitation to indolence however there is plenty to see and do locally. Even in peak season, it is unusual not to find a quiet spot at nearby Pyrgos Psilonerou Beach (1.2km), an appealing stretch of sand/pebbles with several laid-back tavernas. This area also houses an important breeding zone for the endangered Loggerhead sea turtle whose nesting sites are enclosed and protected (local ecological organizations ask all visitors to please respect the turtles by keeping their distance). Head West to the long sandy beach, lively beachfront cafes and seafood restaurants of Maleme (1.5km) or East to the Limnopouli Water Park (17km) or Platanias (4km) which has a comprehensive choice of eateries, shops and facilities as well as a pretty harbour where boat trips, scuba diving, surfing and fishing trips can all be arranged. Steeped in history and one of Crete’s most attractive coastal towns, the Venetian harbourfront, waterside restaurants, spice boutiques and fascinating local craft shops of Chania Town are around a 25 minute drive.