I can't remember when I last stayed anywhere which exactly lived up to the pictures, but our villa at Vederi Estate more than lived up to the photos - it totally exceeded our expectations. The 3 villas are set in a peaceful olive grove a mile or so outside the nearest village. All 3 are in immaculate condition, well-furnished and with everything you could need for a perfect stay - air conditioning upstairs, a deluxe spa shower, a jacuzzi, washing maching, dishwasher, barbecue, Wifi, satellite TV (not that we watched it much) and DVD player, a good supply of fresh towels including towels for use by the pool, and a generous welcome pack of provisions to get the holiday started smoothly. The jewel in the crown for me was the wonderful balcony outside the master bedroom which had fabulous views over the olive grove and surrounding forest by day, and of the star-strewn sky by night (including a great view of the milky way). We awoke to the soothing clanking of goat bells (which I think were attached to sheep rather than goats), and the chirping of crickets, and I spent many a happy afternoon dozing on the sun loungers while the kids spent so long in the pool I'm surprised they didn't develop gills.
Nothing was too much trouble for George and his family, who went out of their way to be helpful and friendly, yet discreet. They guided us to the villa on our day of arrival, showed us all the amenities in the house, and had cooked us a wonderful home made Cretan dinner (even catering for us having a vegetarian in our party). They arranged for Nathalie, a local masseuse, to visit which was definitely a holiday highlight for my husband and teenage daughter. And they kept the grounds and pool in good order throughout our stay without being at all intrusive, also providing us with a good supply of fresh organic fruit and vegetable s grown on the estate (figs, tomatoes, peppers etc.).
Like other reviewers, we fell in love with this place and didn't stray too far - other than a few trips into the beautiful town of Rethymno to wander amongst the winding streets, and a memorable drive to see the antiquities at Knossos.
The whole experience from initial enquiry to warm welcome and friendly farewell has been a pleasure and we are already planning a return journey. Many thanks to George and family!!