Villa Zaimis | 5-Bedroom Villa in Chania Vamvakopoulo

Ten guests, five bedrooms, and unobstructed views across the Cretan landscape—this is what luxury villa rental in Chania feels like the moment you arrive at Villa Zaimis. Positioned in the elevated suburbs of Chania, this contemporary home sits where terraced gardens cascade toward a sparkling private pool, and the Mediterranean glints between olive groves. You’re close enough to walk to the beach in 15 minutes, yet far enough away to hear only birdsong and the occasional breeze carrying salt air through the villa’s open floors.

Inside Villa Zaimis

Villa Zaimis sleeps 10 guests across 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, arranged across five interconnected split levels that flood with natural light through floor-to-ceiling glazing and a central light dome running the height of the structure. The architectural layout encourages both privacy for those seeking quiet moments and congregation in shared spaces designed for entertaining.

The Lower Ground Floor houses the entertainment hub: a recreation area with a pool table and table football, comfortable sofas arranged around a large television, a cinema projector system for evening screenings, and a dedicated fitness corner equipped with multi-purpose weight training equipment. A separate children’s play zone with toys ensures younger guests have their own space for creativity and downtime. Laundry facilities—washing machine and tumble dryer—are discreetly located here, along with storage for beach towels and pool equipment.

Ground Floor sleeping quarters comprise two bedrooms. The first offers twin beds that convert into a double configuration, providing flexibility for different group compositions. The second bedroom features a queen-size bed with direct access to the gardens. The family bathroom on this level includes both a bath and walk-in shower, catering to guests who prefer different bathing preferences or need accessible facilities.

The First Floor contains the villa’s culinary and dining heart. The kitchen is fully equipped with contemporary Italian design, featuring professional-grade appliances, substantial countertop workspace, and storage for entertaining larger numbers. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the dining area, where a generous table accommodates all ten guests comfortably, with uninterrupted views across the surrounding landscape.

Two master suites occupy prime positions on this level. Master Bedroom One showcases a king-size bed paired with a Jacuzzi bathtub, creating a spa-like retreat with those spectacular sea vistas as your private backdrop. Master Bedroom Two features a queen-size bed, an ensuite shower room, a dedicated sitting area with comfortable seating, and access to a sprawling private terrace—arguably the most coveted spot in the villa when sunset approaches and the light turns liquid gold.

A fifth bedroom functions as a semi-independent guest suite, accessed directly from outside and ideal for guests who value complete autonomy. This annexe includes a double bed, compact kitchenette for preparing breakfasts or light meals, and a dedicated bathroom, making it perfect for adult children, extended family members, or close friends who want proximity without intrusion.

Outdoor Spaces and Living

The grounds reveal themselves slowly as you move through the property. Terraced pathways wind through carefully maintained gardens climbing the hillside toward the villa, creating natural circulation and preventing the feeling of a sprawling suburban development. Instead, the landscape feels intentional—a series of intimate outdoor rooms rather than one undifferentiated yard.

The swimming pool dominates the lower terraces in an architectural gesture: an almond-shaped deep section fed by a shallower circular Jacuzzi, its cascading waters creating gentle sound and movement. This dual-section design allows different depths for different swimmers—children and nervous swimmers gravitate toward the shallow end, while swimmers and lap-practitioners use the deeper section. The pool is divided into zones of dappled shade—provided by mature trees and purpose-built pergolas—and sun-soaked lounging areas. Stone terracing surrounds the water on all sides, with loungers, chairs, and tables positioned throughout.

A pool bar with integrated refrigeration supplies cold drinks and snacks without requiring trips back to the main kitchen. The barbecue station operates on gas, offering everything from straightforward grilling to more elaborate outdoor cooking. The covered bar area becomes the natural gathering point for aperitifs before dinner, shaded from the afternoon heat yet positioned to capture cooling breezes.

The gardens themselves showcase Mediterranean plantings—aromatic herbs, drought-tolerant perennials, and established trees that provide both visual interest and the practical benefit of dappled shade. In late spring and early summer, jasmine and lavender bloom along the terrace edges, their fragrance drifting through open doors and windows. Privacy is complete: neighbours exist beyond the hedged boundaries, but the villa feels entirely self-contained.

Location: Chania and the Surrounding Area

Villa Zaimis occupies an exceptional position within Chania’s suburban landscape—far enough from the tourist bustle of the Old Town to offer genuine seclusion, yet close enough that restaurants, shops, and cultural landmarks are accessible within minutes. Chania itself, known locally as the Venice of the East, contains one of Europe’s most photographed harbours: the Venetian Harbour, constructed between 1320 and 1356, crowned by the iconic Egyptian lighthouse. Wandering the harbour at sunset, with the White Mountains visible in the distance, ranks among Crete’s unmissable experiences.

The Old Town’s cobbled lanes harbour boutique shops, art galleries, and atmospheric bars. The Giali Tzamski, the island’s oldest Muslim structure, sits on the waterfront hosting rotating cultural exhibitions and events. The harbour district pulses with life: waterfront tavernas serve traditional Cretan mezze, rooftop restaurants offer panoramic views with dinner, and street musicians create a constant soundtrack of live music.

Beaches are extraordinarily close. Agii Apostoli Beach lies approximately 4km away, featuring a natural park with protected coastal habitats, golden sand, and several family-friendly tavernas. The beach extends toward Kalamaki, a laid-back resort town 6km distant, known for its genuinely relaxed atmosphere—quite different from Chania’s more commercialised sectors. The local LIDL supermarket serves practical needs, while restaurants like Corinna Star at Corinna Mare offer fine dining experiences. Traditional Greek specialists operate alongside contemporary fusion kitchens.

For day-trip ambitions, Crete’s most famous attractions fall within reasonable driving distance. Samaria Gorge, Europe’s longest gorge and the second-most-visited attraction in Crete after Knossos Palace, sits approximately 50km south. The 16km descent through the White Mountains’ National Park reveals 450+ plant and animal species, including the rare endemic kri-kri (wild goat). The gorge descends to Agia Roumeli on the Mediterranean shore.

Balos Beach, approximately 55km west, offers turquoise lagoon waters and powdery white sand within a protected NATURA reserve—the kind of beach that justifies the drive. Falasarna, 60km away, features pink sand and pool-like waters, recently ranked among Europe’s top ten beaches. Elafonissi, similarly spectacular, lies 70km south. These aren’t quick excursions; they’re destination days worth planning around. Explore our luxury villas in Chania and our full collection in Greece. For comprehensive destination inspiration, read our Chania travel guide.

Chania National Airport lies approximately 14km east, approximately 20–25 minutes by car depending on traffic. Ferry connections operate from the Old Town harbour to nearby islands including Spinalonga (approximately 45 minutes by boat), famous for its Venetian fortress and historical significance.

Best visitation periods: May through June offer warm weather without peak summer heat, plus wildflowers still in bloom. September through October deliver similar conditions with Mediterranean heat gradually subsiding. July and August attract maximum crowds and peak heat but enable swimming until late afternoon. Winter months (November–February) bring occasional rain but mild temperatures and negligible tourist numbers.

Who This Villa Suits Best

Large multi-generational families find Villa Zaimis especially well-suited. The annexe guest suite allows adult children independence while keeping grandparents steps away. The lower-ground entertainment zone absorbs teenagers and pre-teens, while the main living floors facilitate family meals and evening gatherings. The combination of a shallow Jacuzzi section and a deeper pool accommodates swimmers and non-swimmers alike.

Groups of friends celebrating milestone birthdays or anniversaries appreciate the flexible bedroom configurations, communal dining, and pool-party logistics. The cinema projector and games equipment extend entertaining into evening hours.

Couples seeking cultural immersion benefit from proximity to Chania’s Old Town, yet retreat to complete privacy within the property. The master suite with Jacuzzi and the second master with private terrace allow temporary separation for those moments when solitude appeals.

Families with young children value the dedicated play area, shallow pool section, available babysitting services, baby monitor provision, and baby bath facilities. The beaches at Agii Apostoli and Kalamaki feature gently shelving waters and lifeguard cover during summer months.

Practical Information

Villa Zaimis accommodates 10 guests maximum across 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. The property includes maid service, with daily or twice-weekly options available. Chef services can be arranged through the concierge, allowing guests to enjoy restaurant-quality meals without leaving the villa. Babysitting is available for guests requiring childcare, and catering for special dinners or celebrations can be organized in advance. Meal delivery services operate through local restaurants for guests preferring minimal cooking. Airport transfers are arranged upon booking—a straightforward 20–25 minute journey from Chania National Airport.

The refrigerator arrives pre-stocked with essentials: fresh fruits, local cheeses, Greek yogurt, coffee, tea, and basic pantry items. Air-conditioning operates throughout the villa. Blackout curtains and adjustable blinds offer light control in all bedrooms. Washing machine and tumble dryer minimize packing requirements. Linen and towels are provided and changed regularly. Yoga classes can be arranged with a local instructor, using the terraces or main living areas depending on weather and preference.

The nearest significant supermarket (LIDL) lies approximately 3km away in Kalamaki. The local village centre, 2km distant, contains smaller shops for immediate needs. Parking is available within the property grounds—essential if renting a car for exploring the island.

Frequently Asked Questions about Villa Zaimis

How many guests does Villa Zaimis sleep?

Villa Zaimis sleeps 10 guests across 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. The configuration comprises: two ground-floor bedrooms (one twin-convertible, one queen), two first-floor master suites (one king with Jacuzzi, one queen with sitting area), and a separate guest suite annexe with double bed and independent entrance. This flexible arrangement accommodates families, mixed-age groups, and various privacy requirements.

What is the nearest airport to Villa Zaimis in Chania?

Chania National Airport (CHQ) lies approximately 14km from Villa Zaimis, approximately 20–25 minutes by car under normal traffic conditions. International flights connect to mainland European cities during the summer season, while year-round services operate to Athens. Car hire is available at the airport, though pre-arranged transfers through the villa’s concierge service eliminate driving stress on arrival.

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

May and June offer ideal conditions: temperatures between 25–28°C, negligible rainfall, sea temperatures warming above 21°C, and wildflowers still visible in the gardens and surrounding landscape. September and October deliver similar weather with gradually cooling temperatures. July and August attract maximum tourism and peak heat (reaching 32°C+), but enable swimming through late afternoon and evening. Winter months (November–February) feature mild days (15–18°C) and occasional rain, but offer solitude and authentic local experiences, ideal for guests uninterested in beach days.

Is Villa Zaimis suitable for families with children?

Yes. The property includes a dedicated children’s play area with age-appropriate toys on the lower ground floor, a shallow circular Jacuzzi section of the pool suitable for younger swimmers, and a full-size bathtub in the ground-floor family bathroom. Babysitting services can be arranged through the concierge. Baby monitors and baby baths are provided. The nearby beaches at Agii Apostoli (4km) and Kalamaki (6km) feature gently sloping sandy entries and seasonal lifeguard cover. The multi-level layout allows parents to supervise play areas while preparing meals or relaxing nearby.

What is included in the rental price at Villa Zaimis?

The base rental includes: maid service, air-conditioning, utilities, Wi-Fi, bed linen and towels (changed regularly), the pre-stocked refrigerator, pool heating, parking, and access to all entertainment facilities (pool table, table football, cinema projector, fitness equipment). Barbecue facilities are available. Yoga classes, chef services, babysitting, catering, meal delivery coordination, and airport transfers are available as paid add-ons arranged through the concierge team.

What restaurants and shops are near Villa Zaimis?

The LIDL supermarket in Kalamaki (6km, 10 minutes by car) stocks all groceries and supplies. Local tavernas line Kalamaki’s beaches, most offering grilled fish, traditional Cretan dishes, and complimentary raki with dessert. Fine dining options include Corinna Star at Corinna Mare (Kalamaki, 6km) and the restaurant at Domes Noruz Chania Hotel (approximately 8km). Chania Old Town (approximately 10km) contains hundreds of restaurants ranging from casual family-run tavernas to sophisticated contemporary kitchens, plus boutique shops, galleries, and markets. The waterfront harbour district specializes in fresh seafood. Local farmers’ markets operate several times weekly in the town centre, selling seasonal produce directly from producers.