The Echo of the Sea

An Award-Winning Beachfront Hideaway Where Nature Sets the Pace

Some places are special because of what they offer, and others because of how they make you feel. The Echo of the Sea is a little of both.

Set directly on Lakkoi Beach in southern Crete, this award-winning villa is a peaceful retreat for those who appreciate natural beauty, thoughtful architecture, and the luxury of having the sea right outside their door. Far from the busier tourist areas, it offers a slower, more authentic side of Crete, where days revolve around swimming, long lunches, and evenings under a sky full of stars.

What I particularly like about this property is its understated character. Marble surfaces, traditional Cretan arches, sheltered courtyards, and quiet garden spaces create a lovely balance between contemporary comfort and local architectural traditions.
A Thoughtful Layout with Plenty of Privacy
The villa accommodates up to eight guests across three bedrooms, with a combination of spaces in the main house and a separate guest room.

The layout makes it especially appealing for families or couples travelling together, as everyone can enjoy time together while still having somewhere private to retreat.

The Master Bedroom

The master bedroom features a king-sized bed, an en-suite bathroom with a shower, and a balcony overlooking the sea. Blackout curtains and a ceiling fan add to the comfort, while the sound of the waves provides a lovely backdrop to the start and end of the day.

The Family Bedroom

Designed with flexibility in mind, this spacious bedroom features a king-sized bed that can be separated into twin beds, together with a separate bunk-bed area divided by a wall and sliding door.

It is a practical arrangement for families, allowing children to have their own sleeping space while remaining close to their parents. Air conditioning, a ceiling fan, and blackout curtains are also provided.

The Detached Guest Room

Located approximately eight metres from the main house, this separate room has a queen-sized bed, a private entrance, and an outdoor shower.

I particularly like this feature for groups of friends or families with older teenagers. It also offers a convenient option for a nanny or cook, while allowing the main house to remain a private space for the rest of the group.

The detached room is not rented separately, so it remains part of the villa's private accommodation.
Outdoor Living | A Garden by the Sea
The outdoor spaces are central to the experience at The Echo of the Sea.

The property combines garden areas, shaded lounges, and sheltered outdoor spaces that invite you to spend much of the day outside. Traditional architectural details create a sense of calm, while the surrounding landscape keeps the focus on the natural beauty of the coastline.

The villa also features a pool and jacuzzi, offering an alternative to the sea when you feel like relaxing at home.

For meals, the outdoor kitchen is ideal for preparing something simple with fresh local ingredients, while a private chef can be arranged for traditional Cretan dishes served under the tamarisk trees.

And then, of course, there's the beach. With direct access to Lakkoi Beach, you can step outside for an early morning swim or return to the water whenever the mood takes you.
The Sea Is Your Playground
One particularly lovely detail is the dedicated storage cabin near the beach, stocked with complimentary equipment for enjoying the water.

Guests can make use of:

Stand-up paddleboards and paddles
Kayaks and canoes
Snorkelling masks and fins
Life jackets and floating equipment

It's a wonderful addition for families and anyone who enjoys being active by the sea, without having to organise equipment rentals or plan excursions in advance.
Exploring the Quieter Side of Crete
One of the biggest advantages of staying here is the opportunity to discover a less familiar side of the island. Southern Crete is known for its dramatic landscapes, hidden beaches, traditional villages, and spectacular gorges.

There are plenty of places to explore nearby, whether you're in the mood for a short outing or a full day away from the villa.

Frangokastelo Castle: Around 7 minutes by car, this historic Venetian fortress is known for its striking setting and the local legend of the Drosoulites.
Orthi Ammos Beach: Approximately 7 minutes away, with golden dunes and clear turquoise water.
Kallikratis Gorge: Around 19 minutes by car, offering a scenic hiking route through the mountains.
Local tavernas: Galini Taverna is just 20 metres away, while Kioni and Zorbas are within an easy 8–12-minute walk.
Loutro: Take a boat trip from Chora Sfakion to this picturesque, car-free coastal village, known for its whitewashed buildings and waterfront tavernas.
Imbros Gorge: Around 40 minutes away, a beautiful hiking destination with dramatic rock formations and narrow passages.

For longer outings, Kourtaliotiko Gorge, Preveli Palm Forest, and the beaches around Plakias offer further opportunities to discover Crete's varied landscapes.

If you feel like a change of pace, Rethymno's atmospheric old town, Venetian harbour, boutiques, cafés, and restaurants make a rewarding day trip.
The Simple Pleasures
For me, the appeal of The Echo of the Sea lies in the little things.

An early swim while the beach is still quiet. Reading in the shade of the garden. Preparing lunch outdoors with fresh ingredients from a local market. Watching the sun set over the coastline before settling in for an evening under the stars.

With very little light pollution in the area, the night sky can be spectacular on clear evenings, sometimes revealing the Milky Way.

It's the kind of place where you don't need a packed itinerary. The villa and its surroundings provide more than enough reasons to slow down.
At a Glance

Location: Lakkoi Beach, southern Chania, Crete
Accommodation: 3 bedrooms, sleeping up to 8 guests
Beach: Direct access to Lakkoi Beach
Pool and jacuzzi: Available on the property
Architecture: Traditional Cretan influences with marble, arches, courtyards, and cloisters
Water activities: Complimentary SUP boards, kayaks, canoes, and snorkelling equipment
Dining: Outdoor kitchen, alfresco dining, and private chef arrangements
Nearby attractions: Frangokastelo Castle, Orthi Ammos Beach, Kallikratis Gorge, and traditional tavernas

Why I Would Recommend It
The Echo of the Sea is a wonderful option for anyone looking for a quieter, more intimate beachfront holiday in Crete. It combines direct access to the sea with thoughtful architecture, flexible accommodation, and outdoor spaces designed for enjoying the landscape.

It's particularly well suited to families or a small group of friends who value privacy, nature, and experiences that feel a little more personal than a typical resort holiday.

What makes it stand out is the combination of a peaceful beachfront setting and the opportunity to explore one of Crete's most beautiful and less crowded regions.

If your idea of the perfect holiday is waking up by the sea, spending your days between the beach and the garden, and discovering the quieter side of Crete at your own pace, The Echo of the Sea is a very special place to consider.