Nestled in the valley of Messara, on the stunning island of Crete, and surrounded by a verdant oasis of 2 hectares of olive groves, banana, pomegranate and orange trees is Casa Cicala, the perfect getaway for those seeking serenity and relaxation. Completely private and fully refurbished in 2021, Casa Cicala can host up to 6 people, offers free private parking, and is only a short drive away from some of the region's must-visit destinations - such as Matala Beach and the Minoan Palace of Festos! Casa Cicala is composed of 2 big and comfortable bedrooms, each featuring your choice of two singles or double bed; a spacious living room with a flat-screen TV; a fully equipped kitchen to whip up your favourite meals; a dining area; a bathroom with a shower; free WiFi. Outside, there's a delightful patio and an outdoor veranda complete with a large table, perfect for dining al fresco in the cool shade of the surrounding trees. Whether you're sipping on a refreshing drink, taking in the scenery, or indulging in a leisurely meal, you'll never tire of the tranquil atmosphere at Casa Cicala.

I’m Marika and I’m the owner of Casa Cicala, a country house that was built in the 80s by my grandfather, and which I inherited from my mother. I was born and raised in beautiful Parma, Italy, and lived there until I graduated. I then spent almost 10 years working for tour operators around the world! I got married and moved together with my husband, Nikos, and our daughter, Katerina, to the Swiss Alps, where I managed an Italian luxury boutique in the glamourous village of Gstaad. When we moved back to Crete, we decided to renovate Casa Cicala, in order to host people from all around the world in an organic oasis, where our guests can enjoy a relaxing stay surrounded by nature, the good Mediterranean weather, and explore the southern part of Crete.

Casa Cicala is located in the midst of Messara Plain, and there are various authentic Cretan villages in the vicinity for you to explore and get a sense of the lifestyle in the country. Shops, tavernas, bakeries and other useful facilities can also be found there: - Pompia: only 2.5 km from the house, this traditional village offers lovely views of the Plain and Ida Mountains. - Petrokefali: only 2.5 km from the house. Take a walk around the settlement's streets, flanked by dry stone-walled houses, and travel back in time. - Mires: 4.5 km from the house. Come here to find plenty of useful shops (super markets, pharmacies, etc). There is also a weekly open-air market to stock up on fresh produce. - Sivas: 6 km from the house. One of the island's most picturesque villages, certainly a must-see! Do it locals-style: enjoy a late-evening dinner in one of the tavernas on the central square. The magnificent southern coast of Crete is only a short drive away from Casa Cicala: - The village of Matala, a world-famous hippie destination in the 1960s and 1970s, still retains its bohemian atmosphere. Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Matala Beach and explore the hippie caves. Only 15 minutes by car from the house! - Kommos Beach. A sandy beach over 2 kilometres long. Come here for a late afternoon swim, in order to catch the gorgeous sunset later on. Nudists are welcome here. Only 15 minutes by car from the house! - Agiofaraggo Beach. The drive to the parking lot is 40 minutes long, and there is a 30-minute easy and flat trek along the gorge to reach the reward: the crystal-clear, deep-blue waters of the beach. Wild Cretan beauty at its best. Sights include: - The Minoan Palace of Festos is only a 9-minute drive away. Walk among the ruins of this equally important but much less archaelogical Minoan sight, enjoy the peace and quiet (unlike Knosos Palace!), contemplate the lives lived on this site thousands of years ago, whilst admiring the absolutely stunning scenery.