Villa Fraudi honestly exceeded our expectations. The place feels magical — very private, yet not isolated. There are houses and people nearby, and a really cute town with good restaurants just a short drive away. The whole area has this calm, serene vibe that’s very different from the busier parts of Crete.
The flat itself is charming and really well done. The pool is phenomenal, the outside space is lovely, and the kitchen is fully stocked with everything you need. Two great bathrooms, a washing machine, spotlessly clean — no complaints. The hosts were super easygoing and there were zero issues throughout our stay.
We were two people and it was perfect for that, but I genuinely think it works just as well for families with kids — especially with a few goats literally next door. Balos Beach is only about a 30 minute ride away, which is also gorgeous.
We stayed five nights at the end of May / beginning of June and the weather was perfect. We felt completely safe the whole time. Later in the trip we stayed at some more “upscale” luxery hotels on the east side of Crete — and honestly, in hindsight, I wish we’d spent more time at Villa Fraudi instead. It’s just really worth it. Highly recommend.