Faros — Cliffside Villa with Infinity Pool & Beach Access

Villa Faros looks out over Aniforas Bay, where the coastline opens into one of the most striking stretches of South Crete. The water below shifts between deep blue and bright turquoise, depending on the light and the wind, and the landscape feels raw, almost elemental.

This is a place shaped by nature rather than tourism. You’ll notice it in the stillness, in the changing weather over the sea, and in the small details — birds moving along the cliffs, the occasional sight of dolphins, or, if you’re lucky, a passing monk seal in the distance. From the property, a path leads down to a secluded rocky beach below, adding a quiet sense of discovery to the setting.

As the day fades, the experience continues. With little light pollution, the night sky becomes part of the setting — clear, expansive, and quiet. On selected evenings, we can also arrange guided stargazing sessions with a local astronomer.

The villa itself follows the same philosophy: restrained, architectural, and closely connected to its surroundings. Four bedrooms, generous living spaces, and a private infinity pool are all oriented toward the sea, allowing the setting to take center stage.

Faros is for guests who are drawn to places like this. Not for nightlife or distraction, but for space, clarity, and a certain energy that is hard to describe but easy to feel.

THE SPACE

Villa Faros unfolds as a composition of clean volumes in stone and white plaster, carefully set into the natural slope of the land. The architecture follows a clear logic — open toward the sea, sheltered toward the hillside — creating a seamless dialogue between interior and landscape.

The villa is designed to comfortably accommodate up to 8 guests across four bedrooms, including two master bedrooms — one on the upper level and one on the lower level — both offering a high level of privacy and sea views.

The upper level forms the heart of the house, with an open-plan living and dining area and a fully equipped kitchen, all opening directly onto the terrace and infinity pool. A shaded stone pergola creates natural transitions between sun and shade throughout the day. One of the master bedrooms is also located on this level, with direct access to the outside.

On the lower level, three additional bedrooms open toward the sea, including the second master bedroom. A hammam adds a quiet wellness element.

For added flexibility, one additional guest can be accommodated with an extra bed in one of the existing bedrooms, bringing the total to up to 9 guests.

An independent studio can be made available in exceptional cases for larger groups. It can accommodate up to four additional guests; however, it differs in character from the main house, receiving natural light but without sea views, and is therefore not considered part of the standard accommodation offering.

Materials are deliberately simple and tactile: local stone, marble, white surfaces, and natural wood. The result is a space that feels calm, grounded, and timeless.

OUTDOOR LIVING

The outdoor spaces are central to the experience.

The infinity pool sits at the edge of the terrace, overlooking the open sea. Around it, sun loungers and shaded seating areas invite long, unstructured days outdoors. A covered dining area with barbecue makes it easy to spend entire evenings outside. The main dining table is designed for up to eight guests; for larger groups, additional seating can be arranged.

The surrounding terraces follow the natural slope of the land, integrating the villa seamlessly into its environment. Olive trees and Mediterranean vegetation frame the property, enhancing both privacy and atmosphere.

From the garden, steep stairs lead down to the rocky beach below.

ABOUT THE LOCATION

Faros is located near Agios Pavlos, in a part of South Crete that has remained largely untouched by mass tourism.

The area is defined by its open landscapes, dramatic coastline, and a small number of carefully integrated homes. It is quiet and remote in feel, yet well connected for those who enjoy exploring.

A small selection of tavernas and a mini-market can be found in Agios Pavlos ( 3.6 km / 8 min), while Agia Galini offers a wider range of shops, cafés, and restaurants about a 25-minute drive away.

Nearby highlights include:

• Agios Pavlos beaches (approx. 3.6 km / 8 min)
• Triopetra Beach (approx. 5 km / 12 min)
• Agia Galini (approx. 13 km / 25 min)
• Preveli Palm Beach (approx. 40 km / 1 hr)

Heraklion Airport is approximately 90 km (around 1 hour 45 minutes’ drive).

A car is recommended to fully explore the area. However, guests who prefer to stay at the villa and enjoy a more secluded experience can do so comfortably — we can arrange services such as private chefs, in-villa massages, and grocery delivery.

GUEST EXPERIENCE

At STAYS by The Grove Crete, we personally take care of your stay from arrival to departure.

We welcome you in person, remain available throughout your stay, and can assist with anything from restaurant reservations to curated experiences such as private chefs, massages, boat trips, or local excursions through our exclusive concierge services.

Our approach is hands-on but unobtrusive — we are there when you need us, and discreet when you don’t.

GOOD TO KNOW

• The villa is designed for up to 8 guests, with the possibility to host 1 additional guest via an extra bed
  
• An independent studio may be made available in exceptional cases for larger groups (different standard, no sea view)
  
• The setting is quiet and natural — ideal for relaxation rather than nightlife
  
• Access to sandy beaches, villages, and restaurants requires a car
  
• Pool heating is available at an additional cost (€350/week)
  
• Climate Resilience Fee (€15/day) payable on arrival
• No pets, no smoking indoors