Villa Zorba

The villa

Perched on the rugged coastline of the Akrotiri peninsula, Villa Zorba is a sleek, waterfront escape with uninterrupted views across Chania Bay. Set on a private four-thousand five-hundred square metre plot near the tranquil village of Tersanas, this striking retreat balances bold architecture with refined interiors, offering seamless access to Crete’s natural beauty and just thirteen kilometres from Chania’s Venetian harbour.

The villa comprises five bedrooms, four with sweeping sea views and one overlooking the White Mountains. Three rooms feature double beds, two have twin beds, and four enjoy en-suite bathrooms. The fifth bedroom shares a spacious bathroom with a separate shower and bathtub. Living areas span two levels: the ground floor offers a minimalist lounge with leather seating, a Bose sound system, and direct access to the terrace. A sleek kitchen with a central island, modern appliances, and a stone feature wall flows into the dining area. A bedroom suite is located here with a wellness-style shower. Upstairs, guests will find a second lounge with a television, PlayStation 3, books, and an additional guest bathroom.

Outdoors, a heated fifty square metre infinity pool with a shallow children’s area, multiple terraces, shaded dining and lounge spots, and a barbecue zone await. A serene relaxation corner sits near the sea path. Extras include an outdoor Bose sound system, a welcome basket with local spirits, and gym essentials such as weights, a bench, and yoga mats.

Villa Zorba occupies a prime coastal position in Tersanas, surrounded by a dramatic, rocky landscape. It is one of the few properties in the area with direct sea access. Just a short drive away, Tersanas Beach offers fine sand, sun loungers, parasols, and two traditional tavernas serving wholesome Cretan cuisine. Nearby Chorafakia village provides further amenities, including shops, cafés, restaurants and bars.

Close to Tersanas is Kalathas Beach, a picturesque stretch dotted with palm trees and well-equipped with loungers and parasols. Several seaside tavernas offer fresh seafood and local dishes, and the calm waters are ideal for swimming to the small offshore islet. Marathi features two sheltered beaches divided by a pier, with views towards Drapanos Cape and the White Mountains. Another swimmable islet, with a small pine grove, lies just offshore and is popular with divers.

Seitan Limania, on the eastern Akrotiri peninsula, is a striking beach set within a narrow canyon, with brilliant turquoise waters and pristine white sand. Boat trips are available to this remote spot. Also nearby is Stavros Beach, famously featured in Zorba the Greek. For a memorable day out, boat hire to the iconic Balos Beach is highly recommended.

The region is rich in cultural heritage, with monasteries such as Agia Triada and Gouverneto close by. A visit to Chania Old Town is essential, with its Venetian harbour, vibrant dining scene, and historic landmarks such as the Giali Tzamisi mosque and Egyptian lighthouse. Further afield, the Samaria Gorge, Europe’s longest, is a spectacular natural attraction, offering dramatic scenery and endemic wildlife within the White Mountains National Park.