Find hotels near Podaré, Agios Vasileios from SAR 161

"Not a good situation or experience with this property. We arrived at the local beach (beautiful) and enjoyed our day. At 4 pm I messaged the host to see if we could check in(check in after 4 pm on listing) and was told property not ready and to come at 6 pm and we said ok. We arrived at 6 pm to the property to find property in disarray and place absolutely nothing like posted pictures(pictures likely 5 years old). Host frantically trying to clean space with wipes and nothing ready. Beds unmade and host acting erratically. Situation felt unsafe and me and my wife left after taking a few pictures to share with vrbo to confirm our issues. We had to then drive 1.5 hours to get to another place to stay since this place is in very rural crete with winding narrow roads and limited hotels/rentals. Tried to message the host numerous times to try and get a refund with no response. Vrbo support was difficult to navigate initially but was excellent once I got to speak to a manager(3rd call). First time I have had bad vrbo experience with a property/host and hopefully last. Will be advocating for vrbo to change their pictures policy to require annually updated pictures for hosts. This would be beneficial for both hosts and guests. Obviously we can only give feedback based on our experience, others may have a different experience. "

"Sea view room above a restaurant owned by a beautiful family who showed the best hospitality ever. We arrived late and were still offered dinner, there was everything we needed in the room inclusive of coffee machine and coffee, waters and utensils, air conditioning a huge bonus, freshly clean sheets, a drying rack for putting our wet bathing suits on our private balcony, a table and two chairs to move out there as well. Sun blocking curtains, a mosquito net to the sliding door so we could wake up with the sunrise, in the post peaceful, quiet area at the foot of the canyon. A two minute walk to the beachfront where you can rent umbrellas and lounge, and also located is the base of the small hiking trail to get to the palm forest. But it was all made perfect by the kindness of the most wonderful staff. Many thanks and we will be coming back every year! (freddo espresso a must!) and wifi included--Thank you Dionyssos Rooms!"

"Wonderful stay. The host was great. Quick to reply to messages and very knowledgeable about the area. The house was great. Everything we needed for a comfortable stay. The pool isn’t massive but was plenty big enough to cool down and the children loved playing in it. The area is stunning. Amazing views and a number of great beaches within a short drive. We were treated to a hot mousaka on our arrival and the kitchen was brilliantly stocked with wine and treats and home made cheese. On one of the days we got a tour of the farm and a the kids got to ride a horse. We felt very looked after. Brilliant place if your looking for a quite stay in the awe inspiring Crete mountains. "

"The house and pool was beautiful. Eleftheria was the best host "