A perfect blend of traditional charm and modern comfort – a truly unforgettable stay!

We absolutely loved our stay at Olive Picker’s House – it was everything we hoped for and more! The cottages are a beautiful mix of traditional Cretan character and modern convenience. Thoughtfully renovated, they retain their quirky charm while offering every comfort you could need. Each room is air-conditioned, and the bed was one of the most comfortable we’ve ever slept in – a real treat after long days exploring.
Alan and Jo were the perfect hosts – warm, welcoming, and incredibly helpful. From the generous welcome pack waiting for us on arrival to their swift assistance with anything we needed, they made us feel truly looked after. The use of the washing machine was a big plus, especially for a longer stay.
The location in Gavalochori couldn’t be better. It’s a peaceful, authentic village surrounded by beautiful countryside, yet just a short stroll brings you to several lovely tavernas serving delicious local food. There’s also a charming little museum, a bakery, a couple of shops, and historic sites like the Venetian wells and traditional olive press – all within walking distance (be warned that the wells are up a steep hill!).
If you’re looking to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the real Crete, Olive Picker’s House (or Wine Press House) is the perfect choice. We couldn’t recommend it more highly – a true gem!
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holidays in west crete
Judith & Owen

We’ve had the most wonderful week staying in the Wine Press House, everything you need is readily supplied, including a welcome pack to see you through the first breakfast. Alan and Jo couldn’t have been more helpful, guiding us to local places of interest and recommending local tavernas. There are three in Gavalohori, all great! The village is only short walk from the house and has a well-stocked grocers, a lovely bakery and a beauty salon (pedicure 18 EUR have it done when you get there!) The beach is an easy taxi ride away, and Alan is happy to arrange airport transfers if you don’t hire a car. Looking forward to our next stay already.
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holidays in west crete
Helen

The Winepress House is a restored, lovingly furnished old stone house. It is in a quiet location and the town center is within walking distance. The landlords stocked the fridge for a first breakfast and provided water filters to avoid plastic waste. If a problem arose, it was solved immediately. We particularly liked the warmth, openness and British humor of Jo and Alan.

We stayed at Winepress House for two weeks at the end of August 2024 and can highly recommend this accommodation. We will definitely be back!
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holidays in west crete
Gabi & Angela

Das Winepress House ist ein restauriertes,  liebevoll eingerichtetes, altes Steinhaus. Es ist ruhig gelegen und die Ortsmitte gut zu Fuß erreichbar. Die Vermieter haben den Kühlschrank für ein erstes Frühstück bestückt, sowie Wasserfilter zur Verfügung gestellt, um Plastikmüll zu vermeiden. Ist ein Problem aufgetaucht, wurde es umgehend gelöst. Ganz besonders gut haben uns die Herzlichkeit, Offenheit und der britische Humor von Jo und Alan gefallen.
Ende August 2024 waren wir für zwei Wochen im Winepress House und können diese Unterkunft wärmstens empfehlen. Wir kommen garantiert wieder!
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holidays in west crete
Gabi und Angela

I instantly felt at home in the authentic traditional Cretan accommodation. Alan and Jo are thoughtful and kind hosts. The historic village of Gavalhori is only 5 minutes away with beautiful shops , local produce and great restaurants . You get to experience a working Cretan community whilst only being 10 minutes from the nearest beach resort. A home from home . I look forward to my next holiday.

 

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Rob & Tina

Nous avons séjourné dans « The Olive Picker’s House » et « The Wine Press House » en août 2022. Nous étions 6 personnes dans 2 locations qui peuvent créer un grand espace privatif très agréable. Nous connaissons très bien ce coin de Crète depuis de nombreuses années. Deux de nos amis y possèdent une maison. Nous aimons particulièrement l’authenticité et le calme de ce village. Les premières plages sont extrêmement proches. Les locations que propose Alan, le propriétaire, sont d’authentiques maisons crétoises très  charmantes, offrant un confort moderne très plaisant. Alan vit dans une autre maison juste à côté, ce qui est rassurant pour gérer n’importe quelle demande. Nous souhaiterions y séjourner de nouveau avec grand plaisir.

 

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Marie

We visited in September in 2018 with friends and occupied both cottages. This was a superb holiday destination offering everything required for a modern life in traditional cottages. The Cottages are set in a rural Cretan village with plenty of nice local restaurants offering great food choices within a few minutes’ walk. Local sandy beaches and quiet coves are only a very short drive away from the village, and Chania can be reached in 30-40 minutes for those wanting a larger historic town with shopping and tourist attractions.

We split our stay up to include a couple of days quiet relaxation, reading and chatting on the terrace, along with a full day in Chania, and some beach visits for some swimming and sun. Another trip to this beautiful place is already being planned for 2019.

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Graham Marchant

Via recommendations, we opted to stay at the Wine Press for our first holiday in Crete. The premises have been sensitively restored to reflect the village atmosphere of Gavalohori yet feature the facilities expected of a 21 st Century home; there’s even an alfresco shower! We plan to return soon.
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Ruth & Steve

Rating: Excellent. Once again we visited the Wine Press House (we stayed two weeks last year) and we found it just the same, thank goodness, lovely holiday again. This time we dined in the taverna Arismari, in the village, just turn left before the main square…
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holidays in west crete
Mick and Jenny Winwood

Rating: Excellent. Traditional with modern amenities. We loved our stay at the Wine Press. The decor is simple and lovely. I loved how all the traditional features had been lovingly restored. The kitchen is well equipped and the clothes washer was much appreciated….
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holidays in west crete
Lois Baldwin