Tranquil & charming, rural yet refined, Koules Estate-Helianthus is the ideal retreat for families and friends seeking serenity and timeless moments. Immersed in the heart of Crete’s countryside, the unique villa embraces nature, simplicity & elegance, delivering a one-of-a-kind escape surrounded by olive groves and pastoral charm. Complete with Private Pool, BBQ Facilities & Outdoor Dining area, featuring 2 Bedrooms & 1 Bathroom, this serene haven invites guests to embrace laid-back indulgence.
The Private Luxury Retreat, is part of an Elite group of ThinkVilla bespoke stays, where hand-picked exceptional properties of outstanding 24/7 service, incredible tailored experiences and unique cultural charm await to inspire you. The Villa has been certified with the Seal of Approval, a 300’ Criteria Rating, for the unique design, innovation, individual quality & inspiring offerings only with ThinkVilla.
Introducing Koules Estate-Helianthus
Tucked away at the end of a country lane, this villa is the perfect escape into nature, yet still within easy reach of beaches and village life. Koules Estate-Helianthus offers a peaceful backdrop for slow living and meaningful connection. Nestled within a traditional farm settlement in the historic village of Episkopi, the villa is one of five separate & individual homes. Spend leisurely days poolside beneath shaded trees or gather around the BBQ for al fresco feasts. When it’s time to explore, nearby Panormos beach and local tavernas offer a true taste of Crete. Whether curled up by the fireplace or basking in the sunshine outdoors, this villa offers an inviting base for relaxation year-round.
*Koules Estate-Helianthus is part of Koules Estate, a charming complex of five independent country-style homes, each offering private entrances & individual pools. (a shared outdoor playground is available for our younger guests, for endless hours of fun & relaxation.)
External Living | Private Pool, BBQ & Outdoor Dining
Koules Estate-Helianthus boasts a beautiful 150m² lawn covered area, landscaped with native flora and shaded by surrounding nature, creating a soothing oasis. The private pool (1.40m depth, non-heated) invites guests for a refreshing dip at any hour. Sunbeds around the pool make it the perfect spot for unwinding under the Cretan sun. A shaded outdoor dining area, with BBQ facilities (charcoal) sets the scene for long lunches and balmy dinners with countryside views. A shared playground is also available within the estate’s common grounds, making this retreat especially family-friendly.
Internal Living | Beds & Baths
Warm tones, natural textures, and soft lighting create a calming atmosphere throughout the villa’s one-level 80m² interiors, featuring two bedrooms and one bathroom. With open-plan living and tall vaulted ceilings, the space feels bright and inviting. The design incorporates modern comforts with rustic character, offering a true home-away-from-home experience. The villa accommodates up to 4 guests in real beds, while one more guest can be accommodated in the living room on a folding bed. The maximum capacity is 5 guests.
Open-plan Living Room with large windows, 40” TV, fireplace • Fully equipped Kitchen and Dining Area • Bedroom with Queen Size bed (1.60x2.00), access to balcony • Twin Bedroom with two Single beds (0.90x2.00), access to balcony • Shared floating resin Bathroom with bathtub • One additional guest can be accommodated in the living room on a folding bed.
Your Home Stay Includes
Welcome basket included, courtesy of the owner • Housekeeping, towels and linen changes once per week • Pool and garden cleaning twice per week • Baby cot, high chair available upon request.
Practicalities
There is free secured parking space right outside the home's premises for 1 car & further free public space on the village square • The property is well-equipped with all the mod cons; Fridge with Freezer, Electric stove & oven, Filter coffee machine, Microwave, Kettle, Sandwich Maker, Toaster, Washing Machine, Iron & Board, Hair dryer, Mosquito nets, First Aid Kit, Fire Extinguisher.
Mod Cons
High quality bath & beach towels, Bathroom amenities available • Air-conditioning is included in all areas & serves for heating purposes also • Wi-Fi coverage is available throughout the home • Satellite TV • Outdoor BBQ (charcoal) • Outdoor shaded dining area • Indoor area 80m² • Lawn covered area 150m² • Pets are not allowed • Smoking is allowed only outdoors • Events are allowed with prior notice & can take place on the shared area (where the shared playground is located) - given that all the five homes of the complex are booked (extra fees, event contract may be required, maximum guests for event 200-300) • Pre stock service available upon request (additional service fee applies) • Pool operates seasonally (end of March - middle of November) • 24h/7days ThinkVilla concierge service included.
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Location Overview – Meet Episkopi Village
of Mylopotamos
*TO SEE: Koules Estate is tucked within the historic village of Episkopi, a tranquil hillside hamlet that captures the essence of authentic rural Crete. Surrounded by rolling green hills, olive groves, and mountain views, the village offers an immersive experience into local life and tradition. Stroll through its peaceful lanes, admire timeworn stone homes, and visit its centuries-old churches. Episkopi is a true hidden gem, ideal for those seeking serenity and a taste of the island’s timeless character.
*TO DINE: Cretan cuisine is renowned for its simplicity, fresh ingredients, and rich flavours, and Episkopi village offers a taste of authentic local dining. Within the village, you’ll find a charming local taverna and a traditional kafeneio (coffee house) where you can enjoy home-style Cretan cuisine and friendly conversations with locals. A 10-minute drive brings you to the nearby village of Garazo, where you’ll find a supermarket, bakery, butcher, and several more dining options offering fresh local ingredients and warm hospitality.
*TO EXPLORE: Koules Estate strikes a harmonious balance between seclusion and adventure. Whether you’re setting off on scenic nature walks, exploring nearby archaeological sites, or driving to the coast, you’ll find that the best of Crete is within easy reach. The seaside village of Panormos, with its sandy beaches and clear, shallow waters, is just a 25-minute drive away—perfect for family beach days. For more culture, dining, and history, the vibrant town of Rethymno is less than an hour’s drive and offers everything from a Venetian fortress to a bustling harbor promenade.
Out & About
Nearest Local Café & Taverna (Episkopi): 950 meters
Super Market, Bakery & Butcher (Garazo): 5.5 km | 10 minutes driving distance
Panormos Beach: 18 km | 25 minutes driving distance
Rethymno Town: 39 km | 45 minutes driving distance
Heraklion International Airport: 63 km | 1 hour 10 minutes driving distance
Chania International Airport: 106 km | 1 hour 40 minutes driving distance
*Car Rental is essential for the explores, if wish to unravel the hidden gems of Crete, visit authentic villages, towns, unique sandy beach locations and we can gladly assist you with the arrangements.
