Vacation Rentals by Owner

fantastic time at Grapevines

Guest: kirsti
Date of Stay: 07/14/11 Review Submitted: 08/17/11

Hi Robbie and Jules We had a fantastic stay in your house. We do love it – the plan solution, the furniture and the fact that number 10 is situated away from the pool.We will like to come back next year .Kirsti , Norway July 2011

Recommended for:

grapevines

Guest: Svetlana
Date of Stay: 07/05/11 Review Submitted: 08/17/11

Dear Robbie, IT WAS AMAZING!!!!!!! There are no better words to describe that amazing place and it's vibe!!!! I can't wait to come back!!!!.Thank you. Kind regards, Svetlana, July 2011

Recommended for:

Best family holday yet!!”

Guest: Carol
Date of Stay: 06/07/11 Review Submitted: 09/13/11

We had a wonderful 2 weeks at Grapevines in June this year. The villa was perfect. You could want for nothing. Our 2 and 1/2 year old was in heaven. He learned to swim in the beautiful pool, had dvd's for lazy mornings and evenings courtesy of Robbie and Jules's girls (Thanks girls!!). It really was home from home. Rosemary was always on hand for help and advice and Makrigialos itself is one of the most beautiful parts of Europe I have ever been to. Really unspoilt, traditional and the coastline in both directions was stunning. Beaches amazing - especially for small children. Traditional delicious Greek food and no sign of any tackiness anywhere!! We are hoping to get back again before the season is over and if not this year - definitely next and many more to come I should imagine. We absolutely loved it and had the best holiday yet! - Carol, Amir and Kamran, England

Recommended for:

Fabulous holiday at Grapevines!

Guest: Georgina (Holmfirth)
Date of Stay: 04/19/11 Review Submitted: 05/13/11

Our stay at Grapevines was fantastic. The villa was clean and comfortable with some lovely views and only a short walk to the shops, bars, beaches and restaurants. Rosemary was a great help - welcoming us in the early hours and was always around about if we needed any questions answering. At the time we went it was wonderfully quiet - out of season, so whilst not much of the village was open, the beaches were empty and there was no need to book to eat out. We loved Disakari Beach and the 2 beaches at the bottom of Sunwings, but equally the beach in the village centre was great for going for a paddle after having eaten lunch at one of the beach bars - Olympiakos served good lunchtime food. Our favourite restaurant was Gabbianos - atmosphere was welcoming and the food was lovely and great value for money. The supermarkets in the village, along with the butchers and fruit & veg shop & bakers have everything you would need. We realised going to a slightly larger supermarket on the first day wasn't really needed as we eventually found everything close by. Sunwings complex was useful for accessing the internet and playing mini golf, and i'm still proud of my score of 50 shots around the 20 or so holes! The weather wasn't always at its kindest, but the drive along the coast road eastwards reveals some lovely hidden beaches, and the ride through the mountains to Sitia was also worthwhile. We were amazed to still see snow on top of the highest mountains. We did want to go to Knossus, but it shut at 3pm in the afternoon - but in high season I am sure it will be open longer in the day. Agios Nikolaus was great for a wander about - restaurants are pricier than Makriyalos but the food was excellent and the shops well worth a browse. Overall it was a really relaxing holiday and the area and villa is suitable for all ages. A big thank you to the Burnett family! George, Emma & Holly

Owner response:Thank you so much for your review. So glad you had a wonderful time and hope to see you back again.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Wayne & Freddie

Guest: Wayne & Freddie (Christchurch, New Zealand)
Date of Stay: 09/04/10 Review Submitted: 12/06/10

Awesome holiday at Grapevines, the desciption of the location was spot on, as we arrived at night and had no trouble finding it. The apartment was spacious, clean and tidy, great decks with amazing views, with everything we wanted and more. With Wayne being on crutches the complex was just perfect, after a week of playing squash we enjoyed swimming and sitting by the pool. (We even had swimming lessons from your friendly neighbour, Christine) Lots of great restaurants, entertaining sightseeing and wonderful beaches very close by. Everywhere we went the locals were very hospitable, especially the brothers from the restaurant next door. They with other members of their family created a welcoming atmosphere during all their opening hours, meaning we kept on going back for more. Hosts, Rosemary & Nico went out of their way to welcome us at midnight, and were always there if we needed anything (which was hardly ever). Can't wait to go back, would love to take family and friends (already trying to arrange the next trip).

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Ian & Jenny England
Date of Stay: 08/03/10 Review Submitted: 09/09/10

We had a lovely time at Grapevines. Your house had everything we wanted and needed and the air conditioning was very welcome as we had some extremely hot days. The locals were wonderfully friendly and we would certainly consider returning in the future and would have no hesitation in recommending Grapevines and yourself to any of our friends and family. In fact they are probably fed up with hearing what a lovely time we had.....! Thank you for everything you did for us.

Recommended for:

Fantastic villa

Guest: Sivvy (Musselburgh, scotland)
Date of Stay: 07/06/10 Review Submitted: 08/03/10

The accommodation was superb, I am very fussy about where I stay but wouldn't hesitate to book this villa again, spotlessly clean, very comfortable, great location and loads of space, also fantastic pool and terraces. Rosemary the caretaker and her lovely family are a great asset to the complex, nothing was too much trouble, very friendly and accommodating, we had a two week booking, and had a change of linen and towels, bathrooms, floors etc cleaned twice during our stay which was great. Makrigialos is a fantastic resort, we loved the beach bars and tavernas by the waterside, we also visited a few of the tavernas located beside Grapevines, i can honestly say we didn't have a poor meal or service anywhere. We loved the beach, fantastic snorkeling and water sports, the people running these were very friendly, i think the kids tried every water sport available, they had great fun. We all did the banana boat safari, a lot of fun and would thoroughly recommend for future guests another recommendation would be the spa at the Mikri Poli, I treated myself to one of the treatments, it was superb and prices were comparable to home. The traditional Greek night at the taverna in Pefki was great and very good value too. We were a group of 4 adults, 4 teenagers and an 8 year old, there was lots to do for everyone. There's also tennis, football etc at the Sunwing hotel across the road, you have to book the courts a day in advance as they're always busy. I don't think there was anything about Grapevines or Makrigialos that we didn't like and we would definitely return, a welcome pack was provided , it was much appreciated, saved going out for breakfast things on the first morning and the wine and beer was a lovely welcoming touch. When we visit Makrygialos in the future we wouldn't hesitate to book this villa again, it's just what we wanted and the correspondence with Robbie the owner, was very friendly, efficient and professional. The Conways, Scotland

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Stephen,sylvia
Date of Stay: 07/06/10 Review Submitted: 08/02/10

Hi Robbie, Thanks for everything we had a really great time at Grapevines, the accommodation was superb, I am very fussy about where I stay but wouldn't hesitate to book your villa again, spotlessly clean, very comfortable, great location and loads of space, also fantastic pool and terraces. Rosemary and her lovely family are a great asset to the complex; nothing was too much trouble, very friendly and accommodating. Makrigialos is a fantastic resort, we loved the beach bars and tavernas by the waterside, we also visited a few of the tavernas located beside Grapevines, I can honestly say we didn't have a poor meal or service anywhere. We loved the beach, fantastic snorkelling and water sports, the people running these were very friendly, i think the kids tried every water sport available, they had great fun. We all did the banana boat safari, a lot of fun and would thoroughly recommend for your future guests, another recommendation would be the spa at the Mikri Poli, I treated myself to one of the treatments, it was superb and prices were comparable to home. The traditional Greek night at the taverna in Pefki was great and very good value too. I don't think there was anything about Grapevines or Makrigialos that we didn't like and we would definitely return. Many thanks for welcome pack, it was much appreciated, saved going out for breakfast things on the first morning and the wine and beer was a lovely welcoming touch. Many thanks for an excellent service Sylvia, Stephen and Paddy Scotland July 2010

Recommended for:

Guest: Pat
Date of Stay: 06/18/10 Review Submitted: 08/02/10

Hi Robbie We had a great time at Grapevines, your house was lovely with everything we needed and a great location. We loved the way the complex was set out around the beautiful pool and also the way it was looked after. Rosemary and Nico were great, they could be found if you needed them, but were not intrusive in any way. We really liked Makrigialos, the beaches, lots of good tavernas with no pushy waiters trying to get you in, well only one or two! We found everywhere really quiet, which was fine for us All in all, our holiday was everything we wanted and more. Thank you so much for everything, all the information and help with directions etc. much appreciated by Mhairi and Jim too. Regards Pat Scotland July 2010

Recommended for:

Our wonderful holiday.

Guest: Liz and Guenter (Germany)
Date of Stay: 05/12/10 Review Submitted: 05/27/10

We have just returned from a really fantastic holiday at Robbie and Jules's Grapevine villa. The villa more than met our expectations, with the spectacular views both mountain and sea and the sunny patios and balconies. The grounds and swimming pool were very well kept, Rosemary and Nico very friendly and helpful. We went to every Taverna that was recommended in the visitors book but have to say that you can't beat the 'Cave of the Dragon' for views and taste. We enjoyed the area so much that within a couple of days we decided to stay for longer than planned and also to buy some property there. Thank you Robbie and Jules for letting us stay in your wonderful villa and for all the help and advice given to us. Liz and Guenter

Recommended for:Age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great Place for a Family Vacation!

Guest: Canadian Review (Guelph, Ontario, Canada)
Date of Stay: 04/26/10 Review Submitted: 05/17/10

Having recently returned from a weeks vacation in Crete at the Grapevines I can't express how impressed we were with the accomodations and the family friendliness in the village of Makrigialos. The condo was very spacious and comfortable, close to a very nice beach - blue flag rated. The owners were very keen to answer questions about the area prior to us arriving and took all of the guess work out of the final details of our trip. The site manager - Rosemary and her husband Nick were also very helpful and availalbe if we needed anything. There were great restaurants in the area with staff that were very friendly and respectful - we had a gerat time using the resort as a home base to explore around the small villages, monestaries and beaches of the area and it was always great to come back for a erlaxing evening or a dring overlooking the sea on the beautiful front patio. We all had a great time!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children.

Guest: John and Moira Kilvington (Burley in Wharfedale)
Date of Stay: 09/21/09 Review Submitted: 09/21/09

Many thanks Robbie and Jules - We had a brilliant week at Grapevines. What an amazing property - we loved it all, especially the four balconies!! We were well looked after by Rosemary and Nico was always around keeping everything clean and tidy. We met other people at Grapevines and were truly made to feel welcome. What a fantastic, relaxing week - Just what we wanted. We will definitely recommend to friends, family and colleagues. Kind regards John and Moira

Recommended for:

Guest: Sarah Kelly
Date of Stay: 08/26/09 Review Submitted: 08/25/09

Hi Robbie, just wanted to let you know that we had a fantastic time. The appartment is second to none, so comfortable, modern, light and airy. The weather was perfect and we appreciated the windy days. Rosemary and Nico do a brilliant job and are very helpful without being intrusive. Am sure that we will return. Thank you for all your help and advice. Regards Sarah

Recommended for:

Guest: Amanda McCloskley
Date of Stay: 08/26/09 Review Submitted: 08/25/09

I would like to recommend Grapevines for a fun and relaxed family holiday.Grapevines is a very well managed and friendly complex. Help is at hand from Rosemary and Nikos, who were both welcoming and efficient. Robbie was also wonderfully organised and provided us with all the information we could have wanted. We were really well looked-after and treated like guests in their home! Everything went very smoothly: booking arrangements, finding our way to the apartment, gaining access to the apartment, help when needed … couldn’t have gone any better!The apartment itself is fresh, clean, modern, well equipped (loved the large coffee machine), delightfully spacious and light, with lots of the lovely touches that make private rental my preference! We enjoyed having the option of so much private and shared outside space. The room arrangements work really well with a lovely balcony overlooking the pool. The pool itself was wonderful, and even though we were there in August with all apartments full, the children still got more time in the pool to themselves than not. There were always sun loungers available and it never felt too busy.Makrigialos is great for families and couples alike with a good choice of restaurants, bars, live entertainment and traditional fare. Lots to see and do locally if you wish, or if you want a pure chill-out holiday – it certainly caters for that too. And I had forgotten just how beautiful Crete is! We could make lots of local recommendations, but then you may want the adventure of exploring for yourselves. Enjoy”Best regardsAmanda

Recommended for:

Guest: R Dale
Date of Stay: 04/15/09 Review Submitted: 04/14/09

Hi Robbie and Julie, We had a wonderful holiday in spite of some bad weather and we made the most of it. The apartment, complex and situation/location was fantastic. We used the tennis court opposite several times. We also used the hotel play area which the boys loved. The children managed to get in the swimming pool in their wet suits, though my daughter managed to in her bikini but it was too cold for me! I did swim in the sea though-lovely. Even though it was out of season, there were still some restaurants/bars open and it was lovely to have the beach to yourself! The gorge walk from Makrigialos was very enjoyable and we made it to the falls! We also arranged a trip via the little supermarket to Pefkoi-the owner of the shop owns the taverna up there and he arranged for us to be taken up by one of his workers for free. We were personally shown round the museum and had a lovely meal al fresco. We would have loved to have seen the caves up there but it was an uphill walk taking a couple of hours there and back-too much for the little ones. There are the local elders who can show you around the caves because apparently there are no lights but none were available the day we went. We got a taxi back for 6 euros. Thanks again, Be in touch, regards, Ruth Dale

Recommended for:

Guest: Brenda Chevalier
Date of Stay: 11/21/08 Review Submitted: 11/20/08

I would like to thank you for the use of your home for our holiday, it certainly suited our needs. We spent many hours each day walking along the beach, visiting the many restaurants, and pubs along the beach area, so the location of your home was a blessing. The gated community of Grapevines is indeed very beautiful, and although the pool did still have water, we found the water temperature a bit too cool to use it, but we did make use of the lounge chairs around the pool. Your home is indeed very lovely, we appreciated the fact that the bedrooms were on the lower level, as we did not have to carry our heavy suitcases up any stairs to the bedrooms. That is a wonderful idea. We found your kitchen and living area to be very modern, and very spacious, and we did make good use of the balcony off the livingroom, for our morning coffee, and to sit and enjoy the sun, and to also enjoy the sea. The view is beautiful. We also found it to be conviently close to the super markets, the meat market, and the restaurants. Thankyou again for the use of your home, and I would like to reccomend it to any friends who are travelling to Crete. Rosemary was very helpful, and it was also a blessing to have her help with any questions that arose. Thankyou again, Brenda Chevalier Stony Plain, Alberta Canada November 2008

Recommended for:

Guest: Jilly
Date of Stay: 09/18/08 Review Submitted: 09/17/08

We've had an excellent holiday in your Villa thanks. we cant think of any way to improve anything and will definitely recommend to friends.and maybe come back; if we dont, its because we like visiting new places .We loved the little beach up the road, Pefki, the Snail Race and the Dragons cave. We also really enjoyed your music! Thanks again Robbie and Julie Jill,Dennis and friends, Cumbria England September 2008

Recommended for:

Guest: Jean kennedy
Date of Stay: 07/27/08 Review Submitted: 07/26/08

First and foremost we would like to thank you Rosemary and your husband for the wonderful hospitality you provided. The place was amazing but more importantly the kindness you exhibited to me and my family was above and beyond what we expected. For this we are eternally grateful. Thank you. Robbie and Jules, we would also like to extend our gratitude to you as well. The place was exceptional and your guidance and care throughout the entire process made it a stress free vacation. You garnered our trust from the very start and it was more than warranted. The process from beginning to end was the best we encountered throughout our 5 week stay in Europe. You set an exceptionally high bar. My family are thankful! We left wonderig if Crete was a wonderful place or was the service we acquired just that good! I do not believe there to be a higher compliment. Again, we would not hesitate in providing a reference for the exceptional care and quality Grapevines provides. I wish all of you the best. David Keith, Jean Kennedy and kids. Calgary, Alberta, Canada July2008

Recommended for:

Guest: David & Annie
Date of Stay: 06/08/08 Review Submitted: 06/07/08

Dear Julie & Robbie We wanted to say a huge thank you, for allowing us to stay in your brilliant villa, it had the WOW factor, and it was a home from home for us. All the facilities were excellent, clean, comfortable and impressive. We also wanted to say how much we enjoyed meeting Rosemary and Nico, they are wonderful, and such an asset to Grapevines. We had a lovely holiday, and I wish we were there now! We have already recommended you to family and friends, so keep up the good work, and we will hopefully be in touch again in the future. Annie, David, Alana & Mollie.England August 2008

Recommended for:

Guest: Kim
Date of Stay: 03/09/08 Review Submitted: 03/08/08

I travelled to Crete on my own with 3 children, and it couldn't,t have been easier . I was met at the airport by the .taxi which was arranged by Rosemary Even though we didn't arrive at Grapevine Villas until midnight Rosemary was still there to meet us with a smile and show us around. The house was just perfect for us , everything we needed was there. The complex is clean modern and perfectly positioned and so so very friendly. We ate somewhere different every day and the best thing was it was all walkable and safe The children went off on their own to play tennis and football through the day at the hotel opposite , and i sat on the balcony of Grapevine with a drink and watched them ....perfect. We enjoyed our visit so much we have already booked for next year Kim, West Yorkshire

Recommended for: