Guest Testimonials

We were fortunate enough to stay at the guesthouse for five weeks. It was a wonderful experience. A beautiful location. Wonderful hosts, nothing was too much trouble. We'd never been to this west coast before, but it was so beautiful. Beautiful beaches, excellent hiking opportunities, and Balos Beach just a stone's throw away (recommended for electric mountain bikes). The tavernas and eateries in every village, pita gyros (our favorite 😀) were delicious. We highly recommend Richard and Heidi, and of course Logan the cuddly dog. We'll definitely be back... [Original Dutch] We hebben vijf weken in het guesthouse mogen logeren. Het was een mooie ervaring. Een prachtlocatie. Fijne hosts, niets is te gek, we waren nog nooit aan deze westkant geweest, maar wat mooi is dit. Mooie strandjes, goede hiking mogelijkheden, balos beach op een steenworp afstand.( aanrader per electrische mountainbike) De tavernes en eettentjes in ieder dorp, pita gyros (onze favoriet 😀) Wij bevelen Richard en Heidi en natuurlijk Logan de knuffelhond ten zeerste aan. We komen zeker terug...

We stayed with our 2 kids at Heidi and Richard’s place for about two weeks in November and the place is amazing. The guesthouse is well designed and has more than you need, we immediately felt like home. Well equipped kitchen, loads of toys and entertainment for the kids. Heidi and Richard are lovely hosts, always helpful and up for a chat or coffee but they also give you privacy if you want to. We can highly recommend!

We were very happy to be your guests and would be happy to come back if we are drawn to Crete again. The place was perfect for us (2 adults plus 2 children, 7+9 years old). We love somewhat secluded, quiet locations with space for our boys to play and romp. Everything you need was there and much more - the swim fins even fit our sons. Everything is clearly labeled and there are clear instructions for all cases. Heidi and Richard were available for all our questions and occasionally gave us helpful tips for excursions. But they gave us reasonable privacy by withdrawing as far as possible. Thanks for two wonderful weeks! [Original German] Wir waren sehr gerne eure Gäste und kommen gerne wieder wenn es uns wieder nach Kreta zieht. Die Unterkunft war perfekt für uns. Wir lieben etwas abgelegene, ruhige Lagen mit Platz für unsere Jungs zum spielen und toben. Es war alles da, was man braucht und noch viel mehr. Alles ist klar beschriftet und es gab für alle Fälle klare Instruktionen.

Unforgettable stay at this very special place. Heidi and Richard went out of their way to make sure we were settled in and happy. It was clear that they have put their heart and souls into that place, and they created something really special! The villa was superb - comfortable, breathtaking views, equipped with everything you can think of! We didn't want to leave! We will cherish our beautiful memories and hope to return one day.

Accustomed to Airbnb rentals, our stay at Heidi and Richard's is by far the best we have ever had. The accommodation as well as the view were idyllic. The house has all the comforts you need, well arranged, very clean and breathtaking panoramic views thanks to the terraces. We were greeted on the evening of our arrival with everything we needed for dinner, which is very nice after a long trip. The provision of beach equipment (parasols, towels, mask, fins, games...) greatly facilitated our stay. The shared swimming pool is beautiful, and the gardens perfectly maintained. Finally, we must highlight the incredible kindness and availability of Heidi and Richard, thanks to whom we were able to discover places that we could not have found on our own. Beyond the house and the place that keep all their promises, Heidi and Richard are two hosts who are worth meeting and who will make your stay delicious. [Original French] Habitués aux locations de airbnb, notre séjour chez Heidi et Richard est de loin le meilleur que nous ayons passé. Le logement ainsi que la vue étaient idylliques. La maison disposant de tout le confort nécessaire, bien agencée, très propre et une vue panoramique à couper le souffle grâce aux terrasses. Nous avons été accueillis le soir de notre arrivée avec tout le nécessaire pour diner ce qui est très appréciable après un long voyage. La mise a disposition de matériel de plage (parasols, serviettes, masque, palmes, jeux...) a grandement facilité notre séjour. La piscine partagée est magnifique et les jardins parfaitement entretenus. Enfin nous devons souligner l'incroyable gentillesse et disponibilité d'Heidi et Richard grâce à qui nous avons pu découvrir des lieux que nous n'aurions pas pu trouver seuls.

We had a wonderful time! Gorgeous views, an idyllic setting, and a beautiful villa with everything we could possibly need. Richard and Heidi are terrific hosts and expertly guided us to places to see and things to do. We loved our time there!

The location and views were incredible. Heidi & Richard were friendly, knowledgeable, and responsive. We couldn't have asked for a better stay. Thank you!

We had a wonderful stay—the place is beautiful with truly spectacular views. It’s a peaceful spot that really lets you unwind and enjoy the surroundings. What made the experience even better were the hosts. They live on the property, which gave it a genuine and personal Airbnb feel. They were incredibly friendly, approachable, and helpful — always happy to share recommendations and answer our questions. Their tips really helped us make the most of our time in the area. The house itself was extremely well equipped with everything we needed, which made our stay even more comfortable and convenient. A great stay overall. Would definitely recommend!

My husband and I just spent two weeks at Villa Koukouvayia Farms’ Guest House. Every inch of the house, as well as the other houses, is totally thought out without taking away from the homey feeling. Every place you look from has an amazing view, and every level has a veranda with another angle of beautiful views. The pool was still too cold for me, but we’re planning on going back when we can. Heidi, Richard and Logan (the best dog on Crete!) are the best hosts, available for as much help as you need. They have thought out every detail, such as basic foods provided so you can recover from the long journey getting there. The few house “rules” are clearly written, and storage and light switches are labelled, so little is left to chance. This is truly a magical place they have created! I would recommend it to anyone who wants to relax, heal or be a total tourist on the island!

Heidi and Richard are the most wonderful people (and fantastic hosts!!) and the location is stunning. I miss this place already and I would 100% recommend visiting. PS to Heidi or Richard: If you’re reading this, please hug Logan for me!!!

My friends and I had the most amazing time at the Villa! It is beautifully located in an olive grove, with a stunning view of the mountains and the sea. The hosts, Richard and Heidi, are the loveliest and most welcoming people you could imagine and will not only provide you with great tips on where to go/eat but also with everything from snorkels to Barbecue or whatever you may need! We will definitely come back. ❤️

My husband and I stayed in Villa Koukouvayia’s Guest House for a month, working remotely. I fully recommend this place—to digital nomads especially. The internet connection is flawless, and the house is equipped with everything you can imagine! It’s a real house of relaxation, situated in the middle of an Olive grove with a view of the Mediterranean Sea. What's worth mentioning is how truly remarkable hosts Richard and Heidi are. They are helpful, funny and easygoing—and they have a delightful dog and cat!

Wir besuchten den Westen der Insel Kreta im Herbst 2024 für eine Woche. Die Villa von Heidi und Richard war ein toller Erholungsort für uns. Das Haus ist wunderbar ruhig zwischen Oliven Bäumen gelegen und ideal für Ausflüge in der Region. Fußläufig gibt es einen Ort mit verschiedenen Restaurants und Einkaufsmöglichkeiten. Das Haus ist sehr geräumig, die Küche bestens ausgestattet, es gibt verschiedene Terrassen und Balkone, bieten wunderschöne Ausblicke bis hin zum Meer. Der kleine Pool erfrischte wunderbar und auch von dort hatte man einen schönen Ausblick ins Tal. Die Gastgeber sind unheimlich nett und hilfsbereit und Gastfreundschaft ist groß geschrieben. Wir fühlten uns sehr sicher und gut aufgehoben in dem Haus, es hat uns nichts gefehlt und es war blitzsauber und gemütlich. [Translation] We visited the west of the island of Crete for a week in the fall of 2024. Heidi and Richard's villa was a wonderful place to relax. The house is quietly situated among olive trees and ideal for excursions in the region. Within walking distance, there is a town with various restaurants and shops. The house is very spacious, the kitchen is well-equipped, and there are various terraces and balconies offering beautiful views all the way to the sea. The small pool was wonderfully refreshing, and from there you also had a beautiful view of the valley. The hosts are incredibly kind and helpful, and hospitality is very important. We felt very safe and well looked after in the house; we lacked nothing, and it was spotlessly clean and comfortable. Communication was very good, and we are already looking forward to our next visit.

Heidi and Richard’s Villa is amazing, to say the least. It is situated back into the mountains among the olive groves, and it is nothing short of beautiful and serene. The Guest House we stayed in was equipped to the max with everything you could need. They stocked our fridge and had instructions for everything, which we really appreciated. On top of all of this, Heidi and Richard were premier hosts. We truly felt like family the moment we showed up, as we were greeted at 9 pm with an authentic family-style meal with dishes and drinks coming from all directions. We woke up to fresh melons on our porch that were picked for us that morning. Also, every recommendation they gave us for food was incredible. We shared that we had found our earlier in our trip that we were expecting our first child, and at the very end of our trip, they surprised us with the gift of a “onesie” for our little one, which just showed even more how thoughtful they truly are. When we come back, Villa Koukouvayia is where we will stay! THANK YOU HEIDI AND RICHARD!!!

Posto magnifico in una posizione comodissima vicino al mare,casa attrezzata al top e immersa negli ulivi.Richard e Heidi sono 2 host premurosi e attenti a ogni dettaglio.Abbiamo trascorso una settimana splendida e lo raccomando vivamente a chi è interessato a questa tipologia di soggiorno, in pieno relax. [Translation] Magnificent place in a very convenient location near the sea, top-equipped house and surrounded by olive trees. Richard and Heidi are two thoughtful hosts who pay attention to every detail. We spent a wonderful week, and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in this type of stay, for complete relaxation.

My husband and I just spent two weeks as guests of Heidi and Richard at Villa Koukouvayia. What a wonderful experience! Not only were we provided with a fabulous place to stay with a wonderful view and a pristine property, but we were also welcomed into their whole community. We asked them to show us around, and both Heidi and Richard were the absolute best hosts, tour guides, travel partners, community ambassadors, and local historians. I'm sure that we are not the only ones to have experienced their class act! Wherever we went, we witnessed locals reaching out to them with admiration and affection. It is clear they have a solid reputation as genuine people.

How can someone describe the perfect host? Well in my experience with Richard and Heidi I think I have an answer: All you need is two loving people with a great sense of hospitality and humor. From the first hour of my arrival with my friends and after listening to Richard’s thorough explanation of where everything is in the house, I felt like I was visiting family, not a business host. This year’s vacation will always be in my mind because I’ve made two great friends from the American state of Maine! If anybody’s thinking of renting one of Villa Koukouvayia’s houses, they should do it without a second thought. I know from now on that every time that I visit Crete I will stay at their place. They were helpful, organized, charming and most of all perfectly understood what hospitality means.

Wir hatten eine wundervolle Zeit. Das Haus und auch die Lage sind einfach ein Traum. Tolle Tipps für Ausflüge, einfach perfekt für unsere abenteuerlustigen Jungs. Logan der Familienhund hat uns viel Freude bereitet - ein ganz lieber 😊. Wir freuen uns schon aufs nächste Mal! Definitiv ein „Happy Place“ für uns. Vielen Dank für alles! [Translation] We had a wonderful time. The house and the location are simply a dream. Great tips for excursions; just perfect for our adventurous boys! Logan, the family dog gave us a lot of joy—she’s a real sweetheart 😊. We're already looking forward to our next time! Definitely a "happy place" for us. Thank you so much for everything!

We stayed in Villa Koukouvayia’s very spacious Main House, with amazing views from the multiple terraces and balconies! We had everything we could have needed for a thoroughly relaxing stay in a peaceful rural location. The hosts provided lots of extra thoughtful touches and were always available if we needed anything. The additional facilities at the property such as the table-tennis, games and items for the beach were much appreciated and used throughout our stay! It’s worth noting these are shared with the other properties and therefore subject to availability. If you had a very large group wishing to holiday together, this would be an amazing combined rental! We had the added bonus of a piano and guitar and these were also put to use good use by the musicians in our party. Thank you so much Heidi and Richard (& Logan and Oliver) for a wonderful stay. We would all highly recommend!

Wir haben uns bei Heidi und Richard sehr wohl gefühlt. Schon bei der Anreise wurden wir sehr professionell zum Haus geführt. Das Haus ist ein Traum. Hier morgens mit direktem Blick Richtung Meer aufzuwachen macht Lust auf Kreta. Die Schlafzimmer sind mit Airkondition ausgestattet, alle Räume mit Ventilator. Sehr sinnvoll im Sommer. Für die erste Nacht hatten Heidi und Richard den Kühlschrank mit dem Notwendigsten schon befüllt. So konnten wir uns Zeit mit dem Einkaufen lassen. [Translation] Very beautiful house surrounded by olive groves. We felt very comfortable with Heidi and Richard. Upon arrival, we were guided to the house very professionally. This was necessary, as the property is very tucked away in a small village near Kissamos. The house is a dream. Waking up here in the morning with a direct view of the sea makes you want to move to Crete. The bedrooms are air-conditioned, but all rooms have fans, which is very useful in the summer when you want the doors & windows open. Heidi and Richard had already stocked the refrigerator with the essentials for the first night and day.

Posto bellissimo e attrezzato con ogni confort immerso in una collina di ulivi a pochi passi da Kissamos. Richard ed Heidi sono ospiti squisiti ed attenti ad ogni dettaglio; sanno mettere a proprio agio. Esperienza molto, molto positive! [Translation] Beautiful place equipped with every comfort immersed in a hill of olive trees only a few steps from Kissamos. Richard and Heidi are exquisite hosts and attentive to every detail, they know how to put you at ease. A very, very positive experience!

Kakvi predivni ljudi i savršena vila! Na idealnom mestu, blizu najlepsim plažama na ostrvu Krit a ipak sakrivena u stogodišnje masline, daleko od puta i buke. Skriveno je ovo mesto iz raja! Proveli smo nezaboravnih 12 noći u ovoj luksuzno opremljenoj vili gde se domaćini potrude da se osećate kao kod svoje kuće i da vam baš ništa ne nedostaje. [Translation] What wonderful people and a perfect villa! Ideally located, close to the most beautiful beaches on the island of Crete and yet hidden in centuries-old olive trees, away from the road and noise. This hidden paradise is a hidden gem! We spent an unforgettable 12 nights in this luxuriously equipped villa where the hosts make sure you feel at home and that you don't miss anything.

Quelques mots ne suffiront pas pour décrire le bonheur de ce séjour chez Heidi et Richard. Tout était parfait ♥️. Heidi et Richard résident dans la Main House à côté mais ils sont hyper discrets et respectueux de notre intimité pour que nous passions d’excellentes vacances. Nous avons passé une soirée formidable avec eux autour d’un dîner. Nous avons toujours suivi leurs recommandations pour nos sorties et c’était parfait. [Translation] A few words will not be enough to describe the happiness of this stay with Heidi and Richard. Everything was perfect ♥️, starting with their messages to ensure we arrived in the best conditions. Then their very warm welcome with the tour of the Guest House and a stocked fridge for our first meal. Heidi and Richard live in the Main House next door, but they are very discreet and respectful of our privacy. We always followed their recommendations for our outings, and they were perfect.

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Villa K. We stayed in the Guest House, which had ample space for our family of four. We enjoyed cooking in the well-stocked kitchen, relaxing on the numerous private and shared terraces, star-gazing from the roof, and listening to the sounds of the olive grove. Thank you, Richard, and Heidi for your excellent recommendations and support during our trip!

We had the best stay at Villa Koukouvayia! Heidi and Richard are wonderful hosts who made our visit unforgettable. And let's not forget their adorable dog Logan and cat Oliver! Their warm hospitality and excellent tips for local trips added so much to our experience. We stayed in the Garden Suite, which was super comfortable and well-appointed. The deep, refreshing pool was a highlight, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. The views from the villa are simply breathtaking, looking down to the sea, the olive groves and up to the mountains.

Well, wow. That was quite the twelve days of awesomeness. We were here for a mix of business and leisure. As Digital Nomad Entrepreneurs, this is key to a well-balanced lifestyle. Our accommodation was clean, and well prepared. Every light button is labelled—talk about attention to detail! The hosts, Heidi and Richard, made this a really special trip—next time, we'll do less work and more road trips with them! If you want to spend some time to find yourself, have some peace and some fun, hit the booking button! (When you leave, you'll have to make a serious effort to choke back the tears.)