Villa Emu | 4-Bedroom Villa with Private Pool in Chania Akrotiri

Eight guests, four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a 90-square-meter swimming pool overlooking Souda Bay—this is what awaits at Villa Emu in Chania’s Akrotiri peninsula. Located just 900 meters from the crystalline waters of Marathi village, this contemporary residence delivers the kind of Mediterranean escape that makes everyday life feel impossibly distant. The luxury villa rental in Chania combines minimalist design with full modern amenities, positioned perfectly between the tranquility of private surroundings and immediate access to some of Crete’s most compelling beaches and cultural attractions.

Inside Villa Emu

Villa Emu sleeps 8 guests across 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, distributed across three distinct levels that maximize both privacy and shared living space.

Ground Floor. Two generously proportioned bedrooms anchor this level. The primary guest bedroom features a double bed, walk-in closet, satellite television, and an ensuite bathroom where morning light streams through floor-to-ceiling windows. The second ground-floor bedroom contains twin beds, a separate closet, satellite television, and shares proximity to a dedicated bathroom. Both rooms open onto private terraces with unobstructed views toward the sea, each with independently controlled air conditioning. The floor plan flows seamlessly into a fully equipped kitchen featuring an eight-person island bench—the kind of workspace that encourages communal cooking rather than isolating the chef. Stainless steel appliances include an oven, dishwasher, microwave, Nespresso machine, and wine cooler stocked with a curated selection. A spacious living area centers on comfortable seating, satellite television, and PlayStation 4 entertainment. A three-sided fireplace provides warmth on cooler evenings. The separate dining table seats eight. A dedicated business corner office offers desk space, internet connectivity, and natural light—essential for those who cannot fully disconnect.

First Floor. Two additional master bedrooms occupy this level, each with an ensuite bathroom and private access to terraces overlooking the coastline. The bedrooms feature soft color palettes, minimal furnishings, and the same climate control precision as ground-floor accommodations.

Basement. A fully equipped gymnasium contains treadmill, free weights, and strength-training equipment. A separate bathroom with shower completes this wellness space.

Throughout the villa, thoughtful details include Egyptian cotton bed linens, hair dryers, safety boxes in every bedroom, first aid supplies, bathrobes, and thick pool towels. The solar panel hot water heating system ensures consistent temperature year-round. A washing machine handles laundry discreetly.

Outdoor Spaces and Living

The exterior grounds justify the villa’s reputation. A 90-square-meter primary swimming pool dominates the main terrace, with water temperature regulated by the property’s heating system. A separate shallow baby pool with integrated seating accommodates younger children. Built-in day beds curve along one section of the terrace, their cushioned surfaces ideal for afternoon reading or pre-dinner drinks. Sun loungers and umbrellas scatter across multiple sunbathing zones, each positioned to capture different angles of the sea view.

A higher terrace extends further south, hosting a fully equipped barbecue station with sink and food preparation counter. A separate dining table here allows for variety—morning coffee on one terrace, sunset aperitivos on another, grilled fish dinners with sea breezes carrying salt-spray and the calls of nesting seabirds. A pool shower provides refreshment without entering the house.

Alarm and CCTV security systems ensure the property remains secure while guests enjoy these outdoor amenities. The grounds feel simultaneously open and private—views extend unimpeded to the horizon, yet fencing and landscape positioning create an absolute sense of separation from neighboring properties.

Location: Chania and the Surrounding Area

Villa Emu sits in Akrotiri, specifically positioned near Marathi village, a coastal settlement 14 kilometers west of Chania’s historic center. Marathi itself is defined by uncommonly clear water, frequent calm conditions, and a reputation among divers and snorkelers. Sea turtles inhabit these waters—maintain respectful distance if encountered during swimming or snorkeling expeditions. The village supports several traditional fish tavernas, including Patrelantonis Fish Taverna, celebrated for generous portions of feta cheese and daily-caught seafood preparations prepared simply and expertly.

The café Veranda, also in Marathi, offers Cretan plates, vegetarian preparations, and regional wines. Local markets stock seasonal produce, fresh breads, and regional cheeses within 2 kilometers of the villa.

Chania city itself, 14 kilometers southeast, demands exploration. The Venetian harbor remains largely intact—16th-century fortifications frame a working waterfront where fishing boats tie alongside restaurant tables. The iconic lighthouse, enhanced by Egyptian and Ottoman architectural influences layered atop its Venetian foundation, stands at the harbor entrance. The Nautical Museum chronicles the region’s maritime history through photographs, model ships, and period artifacts. The former monastery of St. Frances, now a cultural venue, demonstrates the area’s religious heritage across centuries.

Minoan civilization enthusiasts should visit Minoa’s World, an immersive 9D experience in Chania that recreates ancient Greek daily life and mythology. The Historical and Folklore Museum in nearby Rethymnon, 35 kilometers southeast, houses textiles, traditional crafts, and domestic artifacts spanning centuries.

Beaches within reasonable driving distances include Agia (8 kilometers), Kasteli (12 kilometers), Maleme (18 kilometers), Falasarna (28 kilometers)—famous for its lagoon and dramatic cliffs—and the celebrated pink-sand Elafonisi (65 kilometers), accessible via a shallow causeway during calmer months. Balos Lagoon, 25 kilometers northwest, presents one of Crete’s most photographed seascapes, with turquoise shallows and cream-colored sand bars.

For broader destination context, explore our luxury villas in Chania, browse our villas in Rethymno, and discover our full collection in Greece. For comprehensive destination planning, read our Greece travel guide covering seasonal timing, cultural events, and activity recommendations.

Who This Villa Suits Best

Extended families. Four bedrooms with three bathrooms accommodate two couples with children, or grandparents with adult children and grandchildren. The baby pool, high chair, and cot provide essential equipment for families with toddlers. The gymnasium and PlayStation 4 entertain different age groups simultaneously.

Professional groups. The business corner office with reliable internet supports work calls and email management. Four separate bedrooms mean colleagues maintain privacy while remaining within shared living areas for collaborative work sessions. Some guests rent the villa specifically to host working retreats.

Friend groups. Eight guests sleeping comfortably across four bedrooms eliminates forced sharing arrangements. The kitchen’s eight-person island, multiple dining options, large living room with entertainment systems, and expansive outdoor terraces facilitate group bonding without forced proximity.

Couples seeking seclusion. The villa’s private position, multiple terraces, and sea views support romantic dinners and intimate mornings. A single couple can occupy one bedroom while the remainder of the villa remains closed and unheated, reducing costs significantly.

Multi-generational travelers. Grandparents, parents, and children find distinct sleeping arrangements, shared living spaces, and family-friendly activities (snorkeling at Marathi, beach time at Agia or Kasteli, the interactive Minoan experience).

Practical Information

Capacity & Layout. Villa Emu sleeps 8 guests across 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Bedroom breakdown: one double with ensuite (ground floor), one twin with nearby bathroom (ground floor), two additional masters with ensuites (first floor).

Nearest Airport. Chania International Airport “Ioannis Daskalogiannis” sits 16 kilometers southeast. Transfer time by car approximately 25-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Excellence Luxury Villas arranges airport transfers upon request.

Included in Rental. Bed linens, bath towels, pool towels, Wi-Fi/internet connectivity, air conditioning and heating throughout, dishwasher and kitchen equipment usage, swimming pool access with heating, baby pool, gym access, PlayStation 4 gaming system, satellite television, music system, hairdryers, iron and ironing board, safety boxes, first aid kit, smoke detection, pool shower facilities. Solar hot water heating is included. Maid service, chef/cooking services, catering, and grocery pre-stocking are available at additional cost.

Check-In. Flexibility negotiated based on seasonal demand and prior guest departures. Standard check-in occurs mid-afternoon; early arrival possible with advance notice and occasional additional fees.

Frequently Asked Questions about Villa Emu

How many guests does Villa Emu sleep?

Villa Emu accommodates up to 8 guests across 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. The ground floor contains one double bedroom with ensuite and one twin bedroom with nearby bathroom. The first floor features two additional master bedrooms, each with private ensuite bathrooms. No sofa beds or additional annexes supplement the stated capacity.

What is the nearest airport to Villa Emu in Chania?

Chania International Airport “Ioannis Daskalogiannis” is the primary airport serving the region, located approximately 16 kilometers southeast of the villa. Standard transfer time by private car is 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and specific road routing. Excellence Luxury Villas coordinates airport transfers as an optional service.

What is the best time of year to rent Villa Emu?

May through June and September through October offer ideal conditions—warm daytime temperatures (24-28°C), calm seas for swimming and snorkeling, and fewer crowds than July-August peak season. April and November remain pleasant but with occasional rain. July-August bring peak heat (32-35°C) and maximum tourist density at popular beaches like Elafonisi and Balos Lagoon. Winter months (December-March) see regular rainfall and cooler temperatures (10-15°C), though fewer visitors and lower rates appeal to some travelers. Swimming remains possible year-round but most comfortable May through October.

Is Villa Emu suitable for families with children?

Yes. The villa includes a separate shallow baby pool with integrated seating, high chair, baby cot, and safe outdoor spaces for young children. Marathi beach, 900 meters away, features calm, clear water ideal for family swimming. Nearby Agia beach (8 kilometers) and Kasteli beach (12 kilometers) provide additional family-friendly alternatives with gentler slopes and lifeguard presence during summer months. The swimming pool can be heated year-round. Entertainment systems (PlayStation 4, satellite television, music system) occupy older children. The gymnasium and outdoor spaces support active play. However, the villa lacks explicit childproofing (gates, pool barriers, safety equipment beyond standard features), so families should assess their specific needs.

What is included in the rental price at Villa Emu?

Included: bed linens, bath and pool towels, Wi-Fi internet access, air conditioning and heating, swimming pool with temperature control via solar heating system, baby pool access, gym equipment usage, satellite television and PlayStation 4 entertainment, Nespresso coffee machine and full kitchen equipment, dishwasher operation, hairdryers, iron and ironing board, first aid kit, safety deposit boxes in each bedroom, bathrobes, pool shower. Maid service, professional chef services, catering, and pre-stocked grocery delivery are available at additional cost and must be arranged in advance.

What restaurants and shops are near Villa Emu?

Marathi village, 900 meters away, hosts Patrelantonis Fish Taverna (traditional seafood) and Café Veranda (Cretan plates, vegetarian options). Local markets in Marathi provide fresh produce, breads, and regional cheeses within 2 kilometers. Chania city, 14 kilometers southeast, offers numerous restaurants ranging from casual tavernas to fine dining establishments along the Venetian harbor waterfront. Supermarkets in Chania provide comprehensive groceries and imported products. The villa can arrange chef services for meals prepared on-site, or provide detailed recommendations for restaurant reservations matched to guest preferences.