

Location
Location
Villa Skali is located just outside the peaceful village of Mariou on Crete’s south coast.
Detailed arrival instructions will be provided after booking through our rental partner, Kreta Eiendom SA.
Distances
Mariou village 800m
Myrthios village 3 km
Plakias beach 5km
Damnoni beach 3.4 km
Schinaria beach 3.6 km
Souda beach 4.8 k
Preveli palm beach 11 km
The villa enjoys a picturesque location just on the outskirts of the serene village of Mariou, home to a charming traditional tavern named Mariou Restaurant, and a mini market.
For more dining options, you can visit the next village (2,5 km away), Myrthios, with its selection of traditional tavernas and a mini-market.
The coastal village of Plakias, famous for its expansive sandy beach, lies just 5 kilometers from the villa, while the nearest sandy beach is a short 4-kilometer drive. Plakias Village is the central hub of the area, which offers pretty much everything you may need (supermarkets, fish shops, grocery shops, pastry shops, pharmacies, hairdressing salons, souvenir shops, and more).
The area offers a wealth of natural and cultural attractions, including the Kourtaliotis and Kotsifou gorges, the historic Preveli Monastery, and pristine beaches such as Ammoudi, Schinaria, Damnoni, Souda, Plakias, and the enchanting Preveli beach with its iconic palm forest.
Lastly, within 40 minutes, you can reach Rethymno Town and explore its vibrant Old Town, enjoy peaceful walks across its ~10 km beach road, and visit the farmer's market, which is part of the locals' daily life.
A car is necessary for your transportation during your stay. There are parts of the road near the villa, about 100m long, that are not paved; they are rough and unsealed. We recommend a high-clearance vehicle (like an SUV-B or crossover).
Restaurants
we love
nearby
Villa Skali is surrounded by some wonderful traditional tavernas and restaurants. From relaxed seaside lunches in Plakias to small family-run places in the nearby villages, you will find authentic Cretan food just a short drive away.
Here are a few of our favorites.
Mariou
Restaurant Elia
One of our favorite restaurants located in the traditional village Sellia with an amazing view of Plakias. The lovely owners Nina and Nikos serve delicious traditional dishes with a creative unique touch, making every meal a special experience.
Sellia
Taverna Merastri
The Merastri Taverna is another excellent restaurant in Sellia offering stunning views of Plakias. The warm-hearted owner Giorgos and his family serve traditional Cretan dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring an authentic culinary experience - a must-visit destination.
Sellia
Kouneno Restaurant
We highly recommend this traditional restaurant in Sellia, renowned for its excellent grilled and slow-cooked dishes, all prepared with traditional flair. The warm hospitality of the owners Irini and Nikos adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for authentic Cretan cuisine.