Villa Harmony 1885 | 3-Bedroom Villa in Platanias

A luxury villa rental in Chania sits on the North coast of Crete, 90 metres above sea level, commanding views across the Aegean toward the horizon where sunsets paint the sky in shades of amber and rose. Villa Harmony 1885 is an 1885-built stone residence that has undergone a meticulous restoration, preserving its original architecture while introducing contemporary comfort throughout. This is a property that appeals to guests who want authentic Cretan character without sacrificing modern amenities—the kind of place where you notice the weight of history in the stonework and the clarity of the present in every thoughtful detail.

Inside Villa Harmony 1885

Villa Harmony 1885 sleeps 5 guests across 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, distributed across two levels of the 230-square-metre main residence. The master bedroom features a king-size bed and occupies the upper floor, where morning light floods through windows overlooking the gardens and sea view terraces. A second bedroom contains a double bed, also positioned to capture the landscape beyond, while the third bedroom, which opens onto its own balcony, provides a single bed and a quieter retreat for one guest or a child.

Both bathrooms have been finished to contemporary standards with modern fixtures and heating, one positioned on each floor for convenience. The laundry room adjoins the ground-floor circulation, while a dedicated office space offers a quiet area for those needing to stay connected during their stay.

The ground floor opens into a generous living area where original stone walls meet modern glass staircases. High wooden beams support the ceiling, and the colour palette of whites and soft greys creates an atmosphere of calm refinement. The dining area flows directly onto the courtyard, garden, and pool area, making it the natural gathering point for meals and evening drinks. The fully equipped kitchen contains everything required for holiday cooking—from basic preparation to more ambitious dinners—with contemporary appliances set against the backdrop of period architecture. Sea view terraces extend the living space outdoors, ideal for morning coffee or evening reflection as light changes across the water.

Outdoor Spaces and Living

The grounds surrounding Villa Harmony 1885 occupy several levels, each with distinct character. On arrival, you pass beneath an iconic mulberry tree marking the entrance courtyard—a tree that has stood for generations and somehow seems to represent the villa’s journey through time. This central courtyard contains a dedicated children’s play area with a playpen, slide, and ping-pong table, making it easy for young guests to occupy themselves while adults enjoy the terraces above.

The shared swimming pool is the focal point of the lower garden level, surrounded by steamer-style wood sun loungers with white cushions and thatched parasols providing shade during the intensity of midday heat. A double swing chair offers an alternative vantage point for watching the water, while deckchairs scattered across the lawn invite longer sessions of reading or dozing. The grounds themselves are extensively planted with mature olive trees—some genuinely ancient—and seasonal flowers and shrubs that bloom throughout spring and early summer. The lawn is impeccably maintained, creating a sense of established elegance rather than new-build finish.

The barbecue terrace allows for al fresco cooking and dining, with wooden table and chair sets positioned to catch both the garden views and the broader seascape beyond. Multiple terraces at different levels mean you can chase the light throughout the day, from morning sun on one aspect to afternoon shade on another, and finally to the dramatic sunset views that define Cretan evenings from this northern coast.

Location: Chania and the Surrounding Area

Villa Harmony 1885 occupies a rare position on Crete’s North coast—elevated enough to command views, yet accessible enough for regular trips into town or to the nearby beaches. The property sits approximately 35 kilometres from Chania International Airport, a scenic drive of around 50 minutes that descends from the island’s interior toward the coastal landscape you’ll be calling home.

The village of Platanias, just metres away, provides everyday necessities without requiring a drive: supermarkets, banks, local tavernas, and the kind of small shops where owners know their regulars by name. The sandy beach at Platanias itself—a 15-minute walk from the villa—offers clear Aegean waters suitable for swimming, paddleboarding, and snorkelling. If you prefer more developed beach infrastructure, the white sands of Falasarna lie 40 kilometres west, famous among water sports enthusiasts for consistent winds and well-organised facilities. Further east, the lagoon at Balos (approximately 50 kilometres away) is renowned for its turquoise waters and natural beauty, while the pink-tinged sands of Elafonisi, 70 kilometres distant, create one of Greece’s most photographed beaches.

The medieval town of Chania, a 20-minute drive south, deserves at least one full day. The old Venetian harbour is lined with restaurants serving freshly caught fish and traditional Cretan dishes, while the Maritime Museum and Archaeological Museum offer context for the layers of history visible in the town’s architecture. The covered market near the harbour is the place for local produce, olives, cheese, and the kind of regional wines you’ll want to take home. The Greek Orthodox Church of Agios Nikolaos, with its distinctive red dome, is worth visiting for its interior mosaics and the sense of local devotion evident during services.

Beyond Chania lies serious hiking territory. The Samaria Gorge, 15 kilometres of descending trail from Omalos to Agia Roumeli, is Greece’s most famous trekking route, passing through dramatic limestone formations and home to the rare Cretan wild goat (the kri-kri). The route typically takes 5-7 hours and requires an early start; most visitors arrange transport back via the coastal ferry. For shorter walks, the Richtis Gorge, nearer the eastern part of the island, features a 20-metre waterfall at its terminus and is achievable in half a day.

For cultural tourism, the Palace of Knossos (approximately two hours’ drive east) remains Europe’s most important Minoan archaeological site, while the harbour town of Agios Nikolaos offers the unusual sight of a freshwater lake at its centre, surrounded by restaurants and the Archaeological Museum of Minoan artefacts. The island of Spinalonga, reached by ferry from Agios Nikolaos, combines history (a Venetian fortress and former leper colony) with the atmosphere of an open-air museum. Wine enthusiasts should arrange a tasting tour at one of Crete’s growing number of quality wineries—the island’s volcanic soil produces distinctive wines worth exploring.

For more inspiration on where to explore, our Chania travel guide covers seasonal highlights, village festivals, and lesser-known trails. You can also explore our full collection of luxury villas in Platanias and our broader selection of villas across Greece.

Who This Villa Suits Best

Villa Harmony 1885 works exceptionally well for small family groups—the ping-pong table and children’s play area suggest the owners understand that families need both supervised activities and peaceful downtime. The three separate bedrooms mean parents and children can have some spatial separation without losing the sense of closeness that defines a family holiday. The pool is shallow and safe for supervised swimming, and the proximity to Platanias beach means you can vary your days between the villa’s private pool and the open sea.

A group of three or four friends travelling together will appreciate the sleeping arrangement (two double bedrooms plus one single) and the kitchen’s capacity for collaborative cooking. The terraces and outdoor spaces are generous enough that people can spread out without constantly being in each other’s company, yet the shared living areas naturally encourage gathering for meals and evenings.

Couples will find the master bedroom and peaceful terraces suitable for a romantic break, particularly if visiting during shoulder seasons when crowds are minimal. The office space makes it workable for those who need to maintain some business activity while nominally on holiday. Solo travellers seeking a creative retreat or writing retreat have sufficient quiet space and the kind of aesthetic environment that seems to encourage focused work.

Multi-generational groups—grandparents, adult children, and grandchildren—often choose Villa Harmony 1885 because it offers enough bedrooms for separate sleeping arrangements without feeling impersonal, while the communal terraces and pool create natural gathering points for family interaction.

Practical Information

Villa Harmony 1885 accommodates a maximum of 5 guests. The rental includes daily maid service, Wi-Fi throughout the property (ADSL connection), air conditioning in all rooms, a pre-stocked fridge, and complimentary parking for 3-4 vehicles. A safety deposit box is available for valuables. The shared swimming pool is maintained as part of the property management, and utility costs (electricity, heating, water) are included in your rental rate.

Chef and cook services are available on request, as is airport transfer arrangement—useful if you prefer not to drive immediately after arrival. Chania International Airport (approximately 35 kilometres away, roughly 50 minutes by car) is the nearest air gateway. The nearest supermarket is in Platanias village, walkable in under 10 minutes. Check-in flexibility is typically available; contact the property management team to discuss timing that suits your flight schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions about Villa Harmony 1885

How many guests does Villa Harmony 1885 sleep?

Villa Harmony 1885 accommodates up to 5 guests. The property contains 3 bedrooms: a master bedroom with a king-size bed, a second bedroom with a double bed, and a third bedroom with a single bed. There are no sofa beds or additional sleeping options within the rental, so a maximum of 5 is the stated capacity.

What is the nearest airport to Villa Harmony 1885 in Crete?

Chania International Airport is 35 kilometres from the villa, approximately 50 minutes by car depending on traffic and time of day. Airport transfer services can be arranged in advance through the property management, eliminating the need to hire a car immediately upon arrival if you prefer.

What is the best time of year to rent Villa Harmony 1885?

April through June offers warm days (22-28°C), manageable crowds, and wildflowers in bloom across the hillsides. September through October provides equally pleasant weather with the sea at its warmest (24-26°C) and autumn light that photographers favour. July and August are peak summer season with temperatures regularly exceeding 30°C and higher tourist density. Winter months are mild by northern European standards (12-15°C) but offer solitude and dramatically lower rates for extended stays. May and September are the sweet spot: warm enough for swimming, cool enough for comfortable daytime activities, and fewer guests competing for restaurant tables.

Is Villa Harmony 1885 suitable for families with children?

Yes. The villa has a dedicated children’s play area within the courtyard, a ping-pong table for older children and adults, and a shared swimming pool with a shallow entry suitable for supervised young swimmers. The nearest beach (Platanias) is a 15-minute walk away with gentle entry into the water and family-friendly facilities. Daily maid service means parents have support for household tasks, and the kitchen is well-equipped for preparing children’s meals. The property is relatively quiet and rural, away from nightlife, making it suitable for families prioritising rest and outdoor activity.

What is included in the rental price at Villa Harmony 1885?

The rental rate includes accommodation across the three bedrooms, daily maid service, Wi-Fi throughout the property, air conditioning, heating, electricity, water, and use of the shared swimming pool. Linen and towels are provided and refreshed daily as part of maid service. A pre-stocked fridge ensures basic items (milk, bread, butter, juice) are available upon arrival. Parking for 3-4 vehicles is complimentary. Optional extras available at additional cost include chef/cook services, airport transfers, and welcome hampers with local products.

What restaurants and shops are near Villa Harmony 1885?

Platanias village, immediately adjacent to the villa, has supermarkets (Carrefour and local family shops), bakeries, and several tavernas serving traditional Cretan food. The beach at Platanias has two to three seasonal restaurants with sea views and fresh fish. The medieval town of Chania, 20 kilometres south, offers fine dining restaurants overlooking the Venetian harbour (notably O Forno for traditional Cretan, and several seafood specialists), the covered market (Agora) with produce, cheese, and local specialities, and numerous cafes. Upper Platanias, perched on the hillside above the coastal village, has several traditional tavernas with panoramic views and local wine lists. For grocers and general supplies, the Carrefour supermarket in Platanias remains your most convenient option.