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An olive grove estate with two villas, two pools and a run of terraces above a Cretan village. A true haven to return to after a day hike.
LOCATED ON RENOWN PATHS
7 easy and moderate trails
your private pool villa
sleeps up to 6
Let by the week
Minimum seven nights
45 min
From Chania airport (CHQ)
In short. Bleverde is a private two-pool-villa estate in the hills above Gavalochori, near Chania. Taking holiday in the estate places you right in the heart of a region threaded with scenic trails that wind through villages, valleys, and countryside. After a day of exploring the paths, you return to the private luxury of Villa Elia or Villa Levanda—each with its own saltwater pool, spacious terraces, and panoramic views over the valley and distant sea.
What we provide
Super comfortable beds. Natural materials made Cocomat beds in Villa Elia and superior comfort for deep sleep Duxiana beds in Villa Levanda. A welcome basket with local products, mid-week cleaning and a linen change, all towels, wifi and parking. Yoga mats to stretch and relax before or/and after a demanding hiking day. Owners who live with the place and will answer your questions themselves.
What we do not provide
We do not organise hikes and do not provide hiking equipment. We can not offer transfers and pickups to and from hiking locations. We do not provide snacks for the hiking trips, although some of the items in the welcome basket are a good fit for a snack to carry in your hiking backpack.
Genuine Peace and Privacy
Bleverde is not a busy resort or a standard tourist base. We are a private olive-grove estate with two luxury villas, quietly positioned on the hillside of Gavalochori in Apokoronas. The setting offers genuine peace, privacy and direct access to the region’s network of trails, making it a true base for those who come to Crete to walk.
Your starting point for Chania Trails
From the estate you are within easy reach of the Apokoronas Chania Trails network, including scenic routes that link traditional villages, valleys and countryside. Many paths begin just minutes away, while longer day hikes into the surrounding hills or towards the coast are straightforward to plan. You return each evening to the same quiet home rather than a different hotel each night.
Recharge
After hours on the trail, the villas become a real haven. Private saltwater pools, shaded terraces with valley and sea views, high-quality beds and fully equipped kitchens welcome tired legs and dusty boots. Whether you are a couple seeking calm or a family sharing the day’s adventures, the space allows everyone to stretch out, recover and prepare for the next walk.
On numbers. Two, Three, Four, Five or Six if you look into hiking with family or close friends. You would like to extend the invitation? Another 6 people can fit in the other villa of the estate.
What you can expect when you book
You choose either Villa Elia or Villa Levanda (or both for exclusive use of the estate). Each villa sleeps up to six comfortably and comes with its own pool and outdoor living areas. The village of Gavalochori is a ten-minute walk for tavernas and supplies; sandy beaches are about ten minutes by car. Everything else — trail maps, local recommendations, and the simple pleasure of returning to a peaceful private home — is ready for you.
The best months for a hike
May, early June, late September, October, early November. Warm rather than punishing, beautiful light, and a sea that is worth getting into — September has the warmest water of the year. The gardens and nature around are at their best in May. July and August are hot, and hiking is way less pleasant. October and early November are months to keep your camera on at all times. The skies and clouds formations are spectacular. More in our month-by-month guide, and on the area itself in our guide to Gavalochori and the Apokoronas.
Villa Elia
Sleeps 6 · pool 8 × 4 m
The estate’s original stone house, restored from limestone quarried on the land. Two equal en-suite master bedrooms sharing a terrace, plus a twin with its own bathroom. A library and a studio downstairs. It holds the cool through August. More about Villa Elia.
Villa Levanda
Sleeps 6 · pool 10 × 5 m
The contemporary house. Three en-suite bedrooms, a master suite with a whole floor to itself, and an 85 square metre open-plan living floor that is the obvious place for everyone to gather if the weather turns. More about Villa Levanda.
Both are described in full on our Crete villas page. If you are travelling as a couple rather than a party, see our Crete villas for couples.
Why is Bleverde a good base for hiking in Crete?
Bleverde sits on a quiet hillside in Gavalochori, Apokoronas — right in the heart of a region with a well-developed network of scenic trails linking traditional villages, valleys and countryside. You can start many walks almost from the door and return each evening to a private, comfortable villa rather than a busy hotel. Many other scenic trails are only within an 1 hour drive away.
How close are the hiking trails?
Several local routes, including the popular Gavalochori–Douliana circuit and other paths in the Apokoronas trail network, begin within a short walk or very short drive of the estate. Longer day hikes into the surrounding hills or towards the coast are also easily accessible. Chania Trails site and Discover on Foot books (available in the villas) provide ample information and maps.
Which villa should I choose – Villa Elia or Villa Levanda?
Both villas sleep up to six guests comfortably and each has its own private saltwater pool and outdoor terraces. Villa Elia is the original restored stone house with a more traditional character; Villa Levanda is a contemporary design with large open living spaces and art. Choose according to the atmosphere you prefer, or book both for exclusive use of the whole estate.
Can we book just for the weekend?
No. Both villas are let by the week, minimum seven nights, with a fixed changeover day. In practice that means a week in Crete with the wedding in the middle rather than a two-night hire. Check which weeks are free on the availability calendars.
Is the estate suitable for couples as well as families or small groups?
Yes. Many couples come for peaceful hiking holidays, while families and groups of friends appreciate the space, privacy and separate living areas. Both villas work well for either. For bigger families the estate can host a maximum of 12 guests in both houses.
Do I need a car?
A car is strongly recommended. While the village of Gavalochori is only a 10-minute walk away for tavernas and basic supplies, supermarkets, beaches and longer excursions are easiest to reach by car. Chania airport is about 45 minutes’ drive.
Can we have the whole estate to ourselves?
Yes. When both Villa Elia and Villa Levanda are booked together, the entire olive-grove estate becomes exclusively yours — ideal for larger groups or anyone wanting complete privacy.
How far are the nearest beaches and the village?
Gavalochori village (with its well-known tavernas) is a pleasant 10-minute walk. The sandy beaches of Almyrida and Kalyves are approximately 10 minutes by car (4–6 km).
How far is the airport?
Chania (CHQ) is forty-five minutes by car and Heraklion is two hours. A taxi from Chania airport is around 50 Euros one way. Our guide to Chania airport transfers, car hire and getting to Gavalochori has more.
How do we start?
Email us with your ideas for hikes and dates. Penelope and Danny, who own the estate, read those themselves and will tell you straight whether it fits and if there is availability.
When is the best time to visit for hiking?
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful landscapes. Early summer and late autumn can also be excellent, while the peak summer months are hotter and better suited to shorter morning or evening walks.
Tell us what you are picturing
Send us your dates and your numbers. If the estate is not right for the day you want, we will say so.
Email us
Check availability