Experience ‘village life’ in traditional Cretan villas  

Aspros Potamos is known to be the most ancient settlement in the area of Pefki. It is located in south-east Crete, a thousand meters above sea level. The area is famous for its natural beauty, which comprises of numerous unspoiled beaches, traditional picturesque villages, and its four magnificent gorges.

It is an ideal location if you are looking for a getaway that will bring you closer to nature, since the area combines both beaches and mountains covered by lush greenery and endogenous pine, olive and citrus trees, allowing guests to enjoy the beautiful surroundings both day and night.

There are no cars here, nor lights, and the mobile phone network isn’t strong either, so chances are you will not be able to answer your calls. The only thing you’ll hear is the sound of nature, whether it be birds, rain or ocean waves crashing. So if you want to get away from it all, Aspros Potamos is the place for you.

The stone-built houses, which are 10 in total, are in complete harmony with nature and guests are able to experience village life at its best, as the villas were built 300 years ago and offer an old-world charm.

The decor is simple and rustic, featuring traditional objects such as small tables, old wood, accessories for traditional bread making, old woven fabrics and pots and pans that were used by the generations that have passed . Beds are made from stone, the windows are original and there is use of straw and soil for insulation, which all help to maintain their traditional style.

In respect for nature and the environment, Aspros Potamos uses only renewable energy sources. They have installed a solar photovoltaic system which has won the first European Award for Greece. This solar system generates its own electricity, which is used to illuminate the grounds and gardens, reading lamps above beds, bathroom light, and also refrigerators in the kitchen. Also hot water for the shower is generated with this system. Candles and oil lambs provide the main lighting in the houses. There are no electrical sockets in the houses either.

Only at the reception room guests can charge their electrical appliance, here you will also find a library, internet and WiFi network.

“To support the belief that beauty lies in simplicity and not exaggeration, we have restored the old settlement Aspros Potamos with respect for the original features and intervention and renovation was kept to a minimum. Many nature lovers, hikers, mountaineers, and people simply looking for something different on their vacation, visit us every year. The location is ideal for those looking for tranquillity and relaxation and it combines country and sea holidays,” say the owners who are proud of their establishment.

“We feel that in today’s world of sameness we have created a retreat from the modern world, which can be enjoyed by all for a short time. Our accommodation is built with great respect for traditional architecture, and with love for the earth or at least a small part of it. Our commitment to the environment with our low energy establishment allows the visitor not only to enjoy their stay but also recognise that tourism can help the planet not just destroy it. In today’s plastic world we offer something really different,” they add.