One of the most prominent attractions of the area near Villa Amalia is the archaeological site of ancient Aptera about 2,5km to the east. Aptera is a site in western Crete, a kilometer inland from the southern shore of Souda Bay, about 13 kilometers east of Chania.
Aptera Today
The site is now maintained by the Greek Ministry of Culture, Department of Antiquities. The hilltop, about 150 meters above the sea, commands views of Souda Bay and the Akrotiri Peninsula to the north, the Lefka Ori (White Mountains) to the south, and Kalives and the Turkish Itzendin Castle to the east; Chania is not quite visible to the west.
Several structures within the monastery enclosure are in excellent condition, including a chapel and a two-story block of cells. The surrounding site is notable for a two-part temple from the 5th century BC, a large three-vaulted Roman cistern, Roman baths, and parts of several Doric temples. An ancient theater is being excavated but is not open to visitors.
At the first floor, you will find the master double bedroom with en suite shower room and a twin room with an adjacent bathroom which includes a Jacuzzi bath. Both rooms share a balcony that offers breath taking views of Souda Bay, especially during sunrise and sunset. At the garden level there’s one more double bedroom, a bathroom with shower, a second kitchen, a living room with fireplace and the utility room.
Amenities
- A 33” plasma TV with Home Theater system and DVD/CD player at each living room (ground floor and garden level). A 26” LCD TV in the master bedroom and a 21” TV in each bedroom. They all offer satellite TV program.
- WiFi internet connection
- Telephone for incoming calls and outgoing emergency calls
- Electric oven with stove in each kitchen
- Microwave oven in each kitchen
- Washing machine and dryer in the Utility room and a washing/dryer combo at the first floor bathroom
- Table tennis in the garden level
- Salt water swimming pool with separate children's section
The main entrance leads to the raised ground floor which offers a fully fitted modern kitchen with dining area, an open plan living room and a guest’s WC. All areas lead to sea facing balconies and the swimming pool. Marble stairs lead to both the first floor and the garden level.
Greece, Crete, Chania
