Independent studio in traditional village

Summary:
The independent studio is part of a traditional village house constructed back in 1877 and immaculately renovated in recent years. It is located in Lastros, one of the most picturesque and unspoilt villages in Crete, a birthplace of famous artists. The studio is very spacious and has its own private entrance. It is fully furnished with 1 double bed, wardrobe, ensuite bathroom, fireplace, kitchenette, small fridge and terrace.

The Space:
A large and comfortable studio with private entrance within a classic Cretan village house. It is fully furnished/air conditioned and consists of:

1 double bed, wardrobe, a private bathroom with shower and a working fireplace, a kitchenette and a small fridge.

The terrace outside the studio has a large wooden dining table and a hammock

Guest Access:
Access through a private entrance

The Neighborhood:
Imagine you could travel back in time 50 years ago when Crete remained undiscovered by the tourist industry. This is the experience you will enjoy in the village of Lastros, high up in the mountains of eastern Crete but ever so close to the sea. The village is located at an altitude of 300 meters nestled between mountains in the south and the sea towards the north. The distance from Heraklion is 90km while the seaside town of Sitia lies a further 35km away towards the east.

The village and the surrounding area is a walker's and photographer's paradise. Maybe you prefer to stay in the village, and explore the endless maze of narrow alleys, the terraces filled with fragrant flowers, the colourful doors and beautifully paved, winding cobbled streets. Don't forget to stop by the local coffee shop where you will meet the friendly and easygoing local residents.

Beach suggestions
The closest beach is in the small village of Mochlos, 15min drive by car. You can swim to the small island opposite the village where you will find an archaeological site (Minoan settlement). The closest fine beaches from the house are towards Ierapetra. At 36 to 40 km from the house you will find the beaches of Koutsounari, Ferma and Aghia Fotia. Only Aghia Fotia is organized with sunbeds and snack bars. The rest are semi organised. Also at 36km from the house, to the west of Ierapetra you will find another great beach, Myrtos.

Trekking suggestions
Whether you choose to head towards the sea or towards the mountains there is a walking route that matches your level. You can head towards the church of Panagia Sigkomalia (2km) and from there walk the dirt track to the picturesque seaside village of Mochlos (another 8km). If you choose to explore the mountains and the amazing views you can head towards the chapel of Saint John and Kapsas peak or towards Saint Nikitas (5km round trip). If you prefer running water, lush vegetation and waterfalls, the entrance of Richtis gorge is a 15 minute drive by car.

The steep slopes surrounding the village are filled with olive groves. The sun, the soil and the sea breeze that gently fondles the trees result in an olive oil of outstanding quality and taste. Lastros is a place where olives have been grown since ancient times. You will get a change to visit and photograph one of the oldest olive trees in Crete and the world, the Mathena olive tree, which has been declared a natural monument by the Association of Cretan Olive Municipalities due to the shape and relief of its trunk, that forms a cave with the adjacent rock.

Restaurant suggestions
- Platanos: has fine cuisine with many traditional recipes and has spectacular views over the bay of Mirambelo. It is on the road 4km towards Aghios Nikolaos
- Kochilia tavern in Mochlos village: very good food, fantastic environment, 8km from Lastros
- Kathodon in Mirsini village: After walking the Richtis gorge it is a good idea to stop in Mirsini and eat in the tavern of Manolis. It offers spectacular views, magnificent sunsets, very good food quality. Approximately 10 minutes by car from Lastros
- Monastiraki: On the road to Ierapetra, on the left side of the road there is a sign that leads to the small stone settlement of Monastiraki. There is a very good taverna in the village square.The distance from Lastros is approximately 15 -20 minutes by car.
- On the road to Ierapetra on the left side of the road there is a sign leading to the village of Epano Chorio where you will find a good tavern in the square. Continuing through the village there is a road leading to the beautiful Thripti mountain. The road is concrete and leads to a very good tavern in the mountain. Approximately 30 minutes from Lastros by car.

Getting Around:
The village of Lastros is very close to the E75 (the main northern highway of Crete) so it is easy to reach from the main gateways of the island (Heraklion, Chania) either by private car or public bus. We recommend getting a car because you will be able to enjoy all the great historical sites, beaches, trekking destinations and food that the region has to offer.

By car: Just follow the E75 from Heraklion to Sitia. After Kavousi village the road climbs up the mountains of eastern Crete (with fabulous views over the gulf of Mirabello), before reaching Lastros.

By bus: There is a direct bus service from Heraklion to Sitia that stops in Lastros

Interaction with Guests:
We are more than happy to assist you with all your needs. We can advise you on the best beaches, restaurants, walking destinations, shopping tips or any other enquiry you may have. You can always contact us for any special requests